The Charms of Mejiro: History, Culture and Culinary Delight

Located on the JR Yamanote line, Mejiro is a quiet and affluent district in Tokyo, easily accessible from other parts of the city. The name Mejiro has its origins in the Mejiro Fudo temple, which adds historical significance to the district. During the Edo period, Hatamoto (vassals of the shogun) and Daimyo (feudal lords) settled in this area and built large, luxurious houses. This gives Mejiro its distinctive historical appearance.

Mejiro is renowned as a safe residential district, and while it may not boast a vibrant nightlife scene, its abundance of restaurants and shops makes it an appealing place to live. The district also has an excellent reputation due to the predecessor of the current Gakushūin University, which was established during the Meiji period to educate the children of Japanese nobility. This university is still among the most prestigious institutions of higher learning in Japan and contributes to Mejiro’s reputation as an area with high educational standards.

Mejiro’s quiet and prosperous atmosphere, combined with its historical heritage and educational institutions, makes it an attractive residential area for both locals and expats who appreciate the quiet side of Tokyo without renouncing the benefits of the city. It is a place where history and modernity come together and where one can enjoy a high quality of life.

What to See

Mejiro Garden

The most famous landmark in Mejiro is the Mejiro Garden. The Mejiro garden is an oasis of calm in the hustle and bustle of the city. The purpose of the garden is to show off the beauty of all the great seasons Japan experiences, looking completely different in winter than it does in the summer. In the middle of the typical Japanese park is a pond surrounded by various plants. There is also a small waterfall, a teahouse and a floating pavilion located in the park. The Mejiro Garden is considered to be most beautiful in autumn, when the leaves turn into different, vibrant colours. Entry is also free, so you can enjoy the beauty easily. 

Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JrnYhjH95C3rCN1o9

Philatelic Museum

The Philatelic Museum is a museum dedicated to the cultural, historical and artistic aspects of stamps. The first floor of the museum is the most beautiful place and is where exhibitions on the aforementioned importance of stamps are displayed. Every four months, these exhibitions change. On the second floor, you will find a specialised library. Every Sunday, there is a workshop on how they used to make stamps. It is a small museum but a must do if you like stamps, want to learn more about them or to experience something new. Entrance to the museum costs 200 yen.

Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XZpHh1xdACbFwXgG6 

What to Do

Goshiki-yu

Goshiki-yu is a public bath house located in Mejiro, Toshima-ku, and was established in 1952. At the beginning of its establishment, it was a single-storey public bathhouse known as the “Miyazukuri Sento”. However, in 1966, it underwent a transformation and was converted into the current building it is today. Despite this transformation, certain elements of the original “Miyazukuri” design, such as dynamic paintings and high ceilings, were retained, preserving the atmosphere of an “old-fashioned public bath house” but within a modern structure. This unique combination of historical and modern design elements creates a spacious and nostalgic atmosphere. Goshiki-yu has a spacious changing room, an in-bath sauna, a cold bath, an outdoor pool and a Miyazukuri public bath, allowing you to have a relaxing time. Moreover, both the hot water and the water in the bath are drawn from underground springs, making the water feel softer than tap water. 

Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GHjq8o63pmb8QHRS6

What to Eat

Shimura Restaurant

This traditional sweet restaurant, not far from Mejiro station, remains one of Tokyo’s most popular spots for kakigori (shaved ice desserts). And rightly so: topped with syrup and laden with real fruit (an all too rare sight), these summer treats look good and taste even better. A selection of savoury dishes, such as vegetable curry and onigiri, complements the dessert choices. You can also pick up sweets like Shimura’s signature tsukumo mochi at the ground-floor shop. 

Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/iWpunpUKebCSC3mL6

Sushi Ugetsu

Sushi Ugetsu is an exquisite sushi restaurant in Mejiro, Tokyo, Japan, known for its authentic and high-quality Japanese sushi experience. This restaurant has an excellent reputation and is often visited by both local foodies and tourists looking for a culinary treat. Sushi Ugetsu is run by skilled sushi masters who have mastered their craft to perfection. They use only the very best and freshest ingredients, including top-quality fish, to prepare the most exquisite sushi. 

Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/e3ybX1nxyTp3UFUr8

Mejiro Shunkoutei

The rotating force behind restaurant Mejiro Shunkoutei is Chef Motoshiro Saito, a genius known for his western dishes with French and kaiseki techniques, who considers “Mephiro Shunko-tei” the crowning glory of his career. Chef Tatsuhiko Koga, who has served as Mr Saito’s right-hand man for many years, also brings his skills to the table. The menu itself offers familiar western dishes such as burger steak, stew and croquette, but careful ingredient selection and preparation take them to a higher level of flavour. What is particularly noteworthy is the use of a gastrobuck (decompression cooker) in the preparation. The effect of crunchy lettuce and plump, flavourful oysters, for example, is evident with every bite. It is nostalgic western dishes with an unfamiliar flavour. This is the main reason why “Meshiro Shunko-tei” continues to fascinate people and has been awarded the Bib Gourmand for six consecutive years (2018-2023). 

Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Da1CzvfYQD7Ayb5q6

In short, Mejiro is a Tokyo neighborhood rich in history, sights and cultural experiences. With its historic appearance, beautiful Mejiro Garden, the Philatelic Museum, relaxing Goshiki-yu bathhouse and eateries such as Shimura and Sushi Ugetsu, Mejiro offers residents and visitors alike a diverse range of activities and attractions. Whether you seek the tranquility of nature, a dive into the world of stamps, or enjoy delicious food, Mejiro has something for everyone!

Featured Photo Credit: Tim Brons

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