Ward Guide

Meguro目黒区

Upscale, trendy, and residential — Tokyo's stylish escape.

¥85,000–¥130,000/mo Transit: 5/5 Expat: 5/5
Highlights Transit Access

Overview

Meguro is one of Tokyo's most desirable residential wards, known for the trendy Nakameguro district with its cherry blossom-lined canal, stylish cafes, and boutique shops. The ward offers a perfect blend of urban convenience and residential tranquility, attracting young professionals and expat families alike.

Best For

Design-conscious professionals, young couples, and expat families wanting a stylish yet livable neighborhood.

Living Costs

Rent Prices (Monthly)

  • Studio / 1R: ¥85,000–¥130,000
  • Family (2LDK+): ¥200,000–¥350,000
  • Prices are for average locations; station-front apartments cost 10-20% more
  • Key money and deposit typically 1-2 months each

Monthly Budget Estimate

  • Utilities: ¥8,000–¥15,000 (electricity, gas, water)
  • Internet: ¥4,000–¥5,000
  • Groceries: ¥30,000–¥50,000
  • Transport: ¥5,000–¥15,000 (commuter pass varies)

Transit Access

Train lines and travel times from Meguro.

Available Lines

JR Yamanote LineTokyu Toyoko LineTokyu Meguro LineNamboku LineMita LineHibiya Line
Destination Travel Time
Shinjuku12 min (JR Yamanote)
Shibuya5 min (Tokyu Toyoko)
Tokyo Station20 min (JR Yamanote)

Expat Life

Community

  • Growing expat presence, especially around Nakameguro and Jiyugaoka. International families and creative professionals.

English Services

  • Meguro Ward Office has English consultation days. Several English-friendly clinics around Nakameguro station.

International Shopping

  • Kaldi Coffee Farm branches, organic shops in Jiyugaoka, and easy access to National Azabu in neighboring Minato.
  • Full supermarket guide →

Ward Office

  • Address: 1-14-36 Kamimeguro, Meguro-ku
  • Languages: English, Chinese, Korean
  • Handle resident registration, health insurance, My Number, and more
  • ID documents guide →

Neighborhood Highlights

The best spots and areas in Meguro.

Nakameguro

Cherry blossom-lined Meguro River, trendy cafes, independent boutiques, and a relaxed vibe.

Jiyugaoka

Charming European-style streets with patisseries, lifestyle shops, and a village atmosphere.

Yutenji & Gakugei-Daigaku

Quiet residential areas with local charm, great ramen shops, and neighborhood izakayas.

Meguro River

Tokyo's most popular cherry blossom spot in spring, with riverside cafes and walking paths year-round.

Practical Info

Garbage & Recycling

  • Each ward has its own garbage collection schedule
  • Sort into: burnable, non-burnable, recyclable, and oversized items
  • Collection days vary by neighborhood within the ward
  • Complete garbage sorting guide →

Safety & Preparedness

  • Tokyo is one of the safest cities in the world
  • Register for ward disaster alerts (available in English)
  • Know your nearest evacuation center (listed at ward office)
  • Keep an emergency kit ready (see home centers guide)