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Meguro
Meguro
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Meguro (目黒区, Meguro-ku; Japanese pronunciation: [meꜜ.ɡɯ.ɾo, -ŋɯ.ɾo, me.ɡɯ.ɾoꜜ.kɯ, -ŋɯ.ɾoꜜ.kɯ][2][a]) is a special ward in the Tokyo Metropolis in Japan. The English translation of its Japanese self-designation is Meguro City.[3][4] The ward was founded on March 15, 1947.

Key Information

Meguro is predominantly residential in character, but is also home to light industry, corporate head offices, the Komaba campus of University of Tokyo as well as fifteen foreign embassies and consulates. Residential neighborhoods include Jiyugaoka, Kakinokizaka, and Nakameguro. As of May 1, 2015, the ward has an estimated population of 277,171 and a population density of 18,890 persons per km2. The total area is 14.67 km2.

Meguro is also used to refer to the area around Meguro Station, which is not located in Meguro ward, but in neighboring Shinagawa's Kamiōsaki district.[5]

History

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The Higashiyama shell mound in the north of the ward contains remains from the Paleolithic, Jōmon, Yayoi, and Kofun periods.

The area now known as Meguro was formerly two towns, Meguro proper and Hibusuma, all parts of the former Ebara District of Musashi Province. The two were merged into a Meguro ward for Tokyo City in 1932 and since then the ward has remained with no alterations to its territory.[6]

The name "Meguro", meaning "black eyes", derives from the Meguro Fudō (Black-eyed Fudō-myōō) of Ryūsenji. The Meguro Fudō was one of five Fudō-myōō statues placed at strategic points on the outskirts of Edo in the early seventeenth century by the abbot Tenkai, an advisor to Tokugawa Ieyasu, to provide protection for the new capital of the Tokugawa shogunate.[7] Each statue had eyes of a different color. (Mejiro, a district in Toshima ward, is named for the white-eyed Fudō-myōō).

Geography

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Hokusai ukiyo-e of a view of Mount Fuji from Shimomeguro

Four other special wards surround Meguro. They are Shibuya (to the northeast), Setagaya (to the west), Ōta (to the south), and Shinagawa (to the southeast).

Districts and neighborhoods

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Politics and government

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Meguro Ward Government Offices

Meguro ward government is led by the city assembly with 36 elected members with current terms from May 1, 2011, to April 30, 2015. The chairman of the council is Yoshiaki Ito.[citation needed] The mayor is Eiji Aoki, an independent. His term lasts until April 24, 2016.[citation needed]

Elections

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Sightseeing and local landmarks

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Meguro Sky Garden
Persimmon Hall, Meguro
Grilled Pacific saury at the Meguro Autumn Sanma Festival

Green spaces

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Cultural institutions

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Religious institutions

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Transportation

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Naka-Meguro Station

Rail

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Highways

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Education

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University of Tokyo, Komaba Campus

Colleges and universities

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Public schools

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Metropolitan high schools are operated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Board of Education.

  • Kokusai High School [ja] (Kokusai means "International" in Japanese)
  • Komaba High School
  • Meguro High School
  • Geijutsu High School (Closed in 2012)

In addition the metropolis operates a consolidated junior and senior high school in Meguro called Ōshūkan Secondary School.

Municipal elementary and junior high schools are operated by the Meguro City Board of Education.

Municipal junior high schools:[12]

Municipal elementary schools:[13]

International schools

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Economy

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Company headquarters

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International relations

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Friendship cities

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Diplomatic missions in Meguro

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Embassy of Poland at Mita

Notable people from Meguro

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Notable residents

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Notes

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Meguro (目黒区, Meguro-ku) is a special ward comprising the southwestern sector of Metropolis, Japan, one of the 23 wards that function with municipal autonomy equivalent to cities. Covering an area of 14.67 square kilometers, it recorded a population of 288,088 in the 2020 national census, yielding a density of approximately 19,600 persons per square kilometer. The ward features a mix of affluent residential districts such as Aobadai and Jiyugaoka, prominent educational facilities including the Komaba campus of the , and natural landmarks like the , renowned for its annual cherry blossom illuminations that draw significant crowds during season. Historically rooted in temple towns around Ryūsenji and Fudōson shrines dating to the , Meguro has evolved into a desirable locale blending urban accessibility to central districts like with preserved green spaces and low-rise architecture that preserves a sense of neighborhood tranquility amid high property values. Its economy emphasizes high-end retail, dining, and professional services, supported by excellent rail connectivity via JR and Tokyu lines, while hosting cultural institutions such as the Meguro of Art and the Folk Crafts .

History

Origins and Early Development

The name Meguro originates from Ryūsen-ji Temple, commonly known as Meguro Fudōson, referring to the temple's statue of the deity Fudō Myōō characterized by striking black eyes (me meaning "eye" and kuro meaning "black"). The temple, belonging to the sect, was established in 808 by the monk Ennin (794–864), who is credited with introducing esoteric Buddhist practices to after studying in ; it gained prominence as one of Edo's "Five Fudō" sites, offering protective rites and drawing pilgrims for its reputed healing waterfall and springs. Archaeological findings reveal prehistoric human presence in the Meguro area, with artifacts from the Jōmon period (c. 14,000–300 BCE) indicating early hunter-gatherer activities, followed by Yayoi period (c. 300 BCE–300 CE) evidence of wet-rice cultivation and settled communities; excavations at the Ōhashi site have uncovered early Kofun period (c. 250–538 CE) settlements, including burial goods and structures suggesting organized agrarian life amid the region's low hills and river valleys. By the Heian period (794–1185), Buddhist institutions like En'yū-ji (founded 853) marked the area's integration into regional temple networks, though it remained peripheral to central power centers. In the (1603–1868), Meguro functioned primarily as a rural outpost of Musashi Province's Ebara District, divided into six villages: Mita, Kami-Meguro, Naka-Meguro, Shimo-Meguro, Himonya, and Fusuma; it served as an exclusive preserve for the Tokugawa shoguns, leveraging the terrain for hawking pursuits, while temples and natural features like the attracted Edo townsfolk for seasonal outings, viewing, and ritual immersions believed to cure ailments. This era solidified Meguro's identity as a semi-suburban retreat, with limited permanent settlement beyond temple complexes and agrarian hamlets, setting the stage for later expansion without significant industrialization or fortification.

Modern Urbanization and Post-War Changes

Following the end of in 1945, Meguro ward, like much of , faced extensive devastation from air raids, with approximately 30% of its area burned. Reconstruction commenced rapidly amid Japan's post-war economic recovery, as local residents rebuilt homes, roads, and basic infrastructure from the ruins, contributing to the nation's broader revival efforts. By the early , initial rebuilding focused on restoring residential and light industrial zones, transitioning Meguro from wartime damage to foundational urban recovery. The Showa era (1926–1989), particularly the 1950s and 1960s, marked accelerated urbanization in Meguro, fueled by Japan's "" and inward migration to . Population density increased as former villages evolved into commuter suburbs, with land use shifting toward multi-story residential buildings and small-scale commercial districts around rail stations. The served as a pivotal catalyst, prompting upgrades such as paving unpaved roads into major thoroughfares and expanding transportation networks, including enhancements to the Tokyu . High-rise developments began emerging, reflecting national trends in vertical urban expansion to accommodate growing households. Post-1960s changes emphasized consolidation and modernization, with the completion of the Meguro Ward Office complex in 1966—originally built as the headquarters for Chiyoda Mutual —symbolizing administrative and architectural progress. The ward's integration into Tokyo's special ward system under the 1947 Local Autonomy Law further supported decentralized governance amid suburban sprawl. By the late , Meguro had solidified as an affluent residential enclave with corporate offices and institutions like the University of Tokyo's Komaba campus driving socioeconomic shifts, though challenges like environmental strain from densification arose. Rail and road connectivity improvements sustained population stability, peaking around 280,000 residents by the 1980s before stabilizing.

Geography

Topography and Physical Features

Meguro Ward encompasses an area of 14.67 square kilometers in the southwestern portion of Metropolis, bordered by to the northeast, to the west, Ōta to the south, and to the southeast. The terrain consists of gently undulating hills and valleys characteristic of the eastern margin of the Musashino Plateau, with an average elevation of approximately 30 meters above . This low-relief landscape reflects the broader geological formation of diluvial uplands dissected by fluvial erosion, resulting in modest elevation variations that range from near in low-lying areas to around 40-50 meters on higher ridges. The primary physical feature shaping Meguro's topography is the Meguro River, a 7.8-kilometer waterway that originates in upstream areas of Setagaya Ward, flows southeast through central Meguro, and continues into Shinagawa Ward before emptying into Tokyo Bay. Formed by tributaries such as the Kitazawa and Karasuyama Rivers, it has incised valleys that contribute to the ward's localized depressions and adjacent slopes, influencing urban development patterns with riverside lowlands contrasting elevated residential plateaus. The riverbanks, while heavily modified for urban landscaping, retain natural embankment features that highlight the area's fluvial geomorphology. Beyond the river, Meguro lacks significant mountainous or coastal elements, with its dominated by anthropogenic alterations to the underlying Pleistocene terrace deposits. These include engineered greenways and parks that follow contours, such as those along floors, mitigating risks in lower elevations while preserving subtle hill profiles in districts like Komaba and Jiyugaoka. Overall, the ward's supports dense without extreme gradients, averaging minimal elevation gain across its extent.

Administrative Districts and Neighborhoods

Meguro Ward is divided into five administrative regions—Northern, Eastern, Central, Western, and Southern —for the purpose of delivering localized public services, with each region overseen by a service office. These regions group multiple residential (住区), which serve as subunits for community administration, welfare, and disaster preparedness, encompassing specific (towns) and their chōme (blocks). The Northern includes areas like Komaba and Aobadai, focused on educational and upscale residential zones; the Eastern covers Nakameguro and Meguro, serving as entry points with commercial vibrancy; the Central handles core administrative functions around the ward office; the Western features quieter locales like Himonya; and the Southern includes Jiyugaoka and Takaban, known for retail and housing. The ward's neighborhoods are organized into approximately 20 primary , each subdivided into 1 to 5 chōme, forming the basic units for addressing, postal services, and local governance. Key include Aobadai (青葉台), Ōokayama (大岡山), Ōhashi (大橋), Kamimeguro (上目黒), Kakinokizaka (柿の木坂), Komaba (駒場), Shimomeguro (下目黒), Jiyūgaoka (自由が丘), Hinotani (碑文谷, often romanized as Himonya), Nakachō (中町), Yakuō (八雲), Gōbonki (五本木), Meguro (目黒), Megurohonchō (目黒本町), Yūtenji (祐天寺), Chūōchō (中央町), Harachō (原町), Senzoku (洗足), Tairamachi (平町), and Takaban (鷹番). This structure dates to post-war consolidations, with boundaries adjusted as of 1965 for areas like Kakinokizaka.
Prominent neighborhoods within these reflect Meguro's mix of residential, commercial, and institutional uses. Komaba, in the Northern District, hosts the University of Tokyo's Komaba Campus and features low-rise housing amid green spaces. Nakameguro, spanning parts of Kamimeguro and Shimomeguro in the Eastern District, centers on the and attracts visitors for seasonal cherry blossoms and cafes, with a supporting . Jiyūgaoka, in the Southern District, combines European-style shopping streets with family-oriented residences, drawing on its proximity to Tokyu line stations. Himonya and Takaban, also southern, emphasize affluent, low-density housing established in the early . Meguro proper, including the ward office vicinity, functions as the administrative hub with higher commercial activity.
Administrative RegionKey Residential Districts (住区)Example Chō
Northern DistrictKomaba, Aobadai, Tōyama, ŌhashiKomaba, Aobadai
Eastern DistrictNakameguro, Mita, Meguro, ShimomeguroKamimeguro, Shimomeguro
Central DistrictNakachō, Gōbonki, Yūtenji, ChūōchōMegurohonchō, Yūtenji
Western DistrictHimonya areasHinotani, Kakinokizaka
Southern DistrictJiyūgaoka, TakabanJiyūgaoka, Takaban
This division ensures tailored services, such as and community events, aligned with local demographics and .

Demographics

As of the 2020 Japanese , Meguro-ku had a of 288,088 residents, yielding a of 19,638 inhabitants per square kilometer over its 14.67 km² area. This marked a modest increase from 277,171 in 2015, reflecting gradual urban infill and net migration gains amid Tokyo's broader appeal to domestic and international workers. Unlike 's national trend of contraction—driven by low rates below replacement level (1.3 births per woman as of 2023)—Meguro's stability stems from its proximity to central business districts and high-quality residential amenities, offsetting natural decrease through inbound mobility. The demographic composition remains overwhelmingly ethnically Japanese, with Japanese nationals comprising 97% of the population in 2020. Foreign residents accounted for approximately 3%, numbering around 8,500–11,000 based on mid-2010s to early 2020s estimates, with concentrations from , , and reflecting labor, student, and expatriate inflows tied to nearby universities and corporate hubs. This proportion has edged upward from 3.3% in 2019, aligning with Tokyo's 20% rise in foreign residents over five years to 2024, though Meguro lags behind wards like Minato or due to its established residential character. Age structure exhibits Japan's hallmark aging profile, with 19.6% of residents aged 65 and older in , concentrated in cohorts like 70–79 years (24,891 individuals) and 60–69 years (25,098). Working-age groups dominate, including 40–49 years (50,226) and 50–59 years (39,771), supporting a elevated by needs but mitigated by urban professionals. Children under 18 formed 19.6%, below national youth shares, underscoring fertility challenges. balance tilts female at 52.9% versus 47.1% male, consistent with differentials.

Socioeconomic Characteristics

Meguro ward residents enjoy a relatively affluent socioeconomic profile, with average annual incomes ranking among the highest in Tokyo's 23 special wards at approximately ¥10,604,490, surpassing the metropolitan average of around ¥6.9 million. This elevated income level supports a lifestyle oriented toward and service-sector , where white-collar occupations predominate; data indicate that and process workers number only 1,261 out of 53,442 total employees, underscoring a low reliance on industrial labor. Housing costs reflect this prosperity and desirability, with average monthly rents for compact one-room units at ¥90,200, higher than in many outer wards due to the area's blend of urban convenience, green spaces, and proximity to central . Median transaction prices for pre-owned condominiums reached about ¥47.5 million in 2023, further evidencing limited affordability for lower-income households and contributing to a low incidence of relative to Tokyo's broader distribution. The ward's socioeconomic stability is reinforced by its appeal to educated professionals, including those affiliated with nearby higher education institutions like the University of Tokyo's Komaba campus, though precise attainment metrics align with Tokyo's overall high rates exceeding 60% for younger cohorts. To support its aging population, Meguro implements the Senior Vitality Points program (めぐろシニアいきいきポイント事業), which awards points to residents aged 65 and older for volunteer activities at designated facilities such as senior centers and nursing homes; these points, earned at a rate of one per hour up to a maximum of 50 annually, are exchangeable for local gift certificates at a value of 100 yen per point, promoting health and community engagement.

Government and Politics

Administrative Structure

Meguro Ward operates under Japan's special ward system within the Tokyo Metropolis, granting it municipal-like autonomy in local affairs such as , welfare, and while coordinating with the metropolitan government on broader policies. The executive is headed by a directly elected serving a four-year term with no term limits, responsible for implementing policies, managing the , and appointing a vice-mayor. As of 2023, the mayor is Eiji Aoki, an re-elected in the April 2024 ward . The legislative authority resides in the Meguro District Assembly (Meguro-ku Gikai), comprising 36 members elected by residents every four years through single non-transferable voting in multi-member districts. The assembly convenes regular sessions to deliberate and approve ordinances, budgets, and ward administration, with committees handling specific areas like welfare and . Current assembly terms run from May 2023 to April 2027, following the most recent . Supporting the mayor and assembly are specialized administrative boards, including the for schooling oversight and public health committees, alongside executive departments for finance, urban development, and community services. The ward office, located at 2-19-15 Kamimeguro, employs staff to execute daily governance, with approximately 2,800 personnel handling operations as of recent profiles.

Electoral History and Political Dynamics

Eiji Aoki, born March 29, 1955, has served as of Meguro Ward since April 2002, following terms as a ward assemblyman from to 1991. A economics graduate, Aoki won re-election for a sixth consecutive four-year term on April 21, 2024, defeating four challengers in a low-turnout contest of 36.21%. His primary opponent was former member Yū Itō (47), recommended by the Democratic Party for the People and ; other candidates included former assemblyman Tarō Kawano and independents. Aoki's platform emphasized preserving greenery, disaster preparedness, and community engagement in the ward's upscale residential areas. The Meguro Ward Assembly consists of 36 members elected every four years under a plurality system, with the most recent full election held in 2020. A by-election for one seat on April 21, 2024—the same day as the mayoral vote—was won by candidate Shōhei Hashimoto (35), who secured 28,786 votes. This outcome highlighted competitive local races amid national Liberal Democratic Party scandals, which reduced conservative vote totals in parallel assembly contests; for instance, Kawano's 12,149 votes fell short of the LDP's aggregate in recent ward assembly polling. Politically, Meguro's dynamics favor stable, conservative-leaning administration suited to its demographics of high-income professionals and families, with Aoki's long tenure reflecting resident priorities for low-density and quality-of-life initiatives over rapid development. However, opposition parties like the CDP and regional groups have gained ground in assembly seats, capitalizing on voter dissatisfaction with national-level graft issues affecting LDP proxies. The ward contributes to Tokyo's 8th and 11th districts, where LDP incumbents have historically prevailed but faced tighter margins post-2021 .

Economy

Industrial Composition and Employment

Meguro Ward's industrial composition reflects its status as a residential and upscale urban area within , with a strong emphasis on service-oriented sectors rather than heavy or primary industries. The ward hosts a mix of retail, , , and educational institutions, supported by its proximity to central business districts. Local is characterized by small to medium-sized enterprises, with limited large-scale industrial operations due to and prioritizing residential and commercial development. According to the Economic (conducted as of June 1, ), the ward had approximately 10,000 business establishments, predominantly in wholesale/retail trade, , and , though exact sectoral breakdowns highlight the tertiary sector's dominance in both establishments and workforce. Employment data from the 2020 Population Census, based on place of residence, illustrates the sectoral distribution of Meguro's 117,056 employed persons aged 15 and over. The tertiary sector accounted for 100,207 workers (85.6%), underscoring the ward's role in knowledge-based and consumer-facing industries. Secondary industries employed 11,944 (10.2%), primarily in (8,363 workers) and (3,536), while primary industries were negligible at 189 workers. This distribution aligns with broader trends but shows Meguro's relative strength in high-skill services over traditional manufacturing. Key tertiary subsectors included wholesale and retail trade (16,205 workers, 13.8%), information and communications (16,058, 13.7%), and academic research/ (12,774, 10.9%), reflecting clusters around areas like Nakameguro and the presence of creative agencies, tech firms, and consultancies. Medical and welfare services employed 10,487 (9.0%), supported by local hospitals and clinics, while education (6,014, 5.1%) benefits from institutions such as the University of Tokyo's Komaba campus. and insurance (5,382, 4.6%) and (6,250, 5.3%) further highlight white-collar employment. , though present with 188 establishments as of , remains minor and focused on industries like precision machinery.
Major Industry SectorEmployed Persons (2020)Percentage of Total
Wholesale and Retail Trade16,20513.8%
Information and Communications16,05813.7%
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services12,77410.9%
Medical and Welfare10,4879.0%
8,3637.1%
and Rental/Leasing6,2505.3%
Education and Learning Support6,0145.1%
This table summarizes top sectors from the ; full data excludes and utilities for brevity. Many residents commute to workplaces in central wards, contributing to net outflow of labor, but the ward sustains local jobs through retail along major streets like Meguro-dori and service firms in commercial hubs. Unemployment remains low, aligned with 's 2.5% rate in 2023, though data specific to Meguro indicates stable employment in adaptive sectors post-COVID.

Major Businesses and Headquarters

Meguro hosts several prominent , contributing to its role as a hub for retail, , and sectors within Tokyo's southwestern wards. While predominantly residential, the ward's central location and access to major rail lines attract businesses focused on and services. Amazon Japan G.K., the Japanese subsidiary of the American corporation, maintains its headquarters at 1-8-1 Shimomeguro, employing thousands in operations centered on online retail, , and services through . Established in 2000, it drives significant economic activity in the region with a focus on digital innovation and . Books Co., Ltd., one of Japan's largest bookstore chains founded in , has its headquarters at 3-7-10 Shimomeguro, overseeing a network of stores emphasizing , international titles, and educational materials. The company, which originated as a lumber dealer before pivoting to , supports and retail distribution with an annual revenue exceeding ¥100 billion as of recent fiscal reports. Pan Pacific International Holdings (PPIH) Corporation, operator of the Don Quijote chain, locates its head office at 2-19-10 Aobadai, managing over 600 stores across and internationally with a model emphasizing low prices on diverse consumer goods from to . Founded in 1989, PPIH reported consolidated sales of approximately ¥900 billion in 2023, bolstering Meguro's retail economy. Stanley Electric Co., Ltd., a key manufacturer of and established in 1920, bases its head office at 2-9-13 Nakameguro, producing headlights, LEDs, and display technologies for global vehicle makers. With operations spanning and overseas, the firm achieved net sales of about ¥1.1 trillion in the ending March 2024, underscoring Meguro's niche in precision manufacturing.
CompanyIndustryHeadquarters AddressKey Facts
Amazon Japan G.K. & Technology1-8-1 ShimomeguroFounded 2000; major employer in digital retail
Books Kinokuniya Co., Ltd.Retail (Books)3-7-10 ShimomeguroEstablished 1927; extensive publishing network
PPIH (Don Quijote)Discount Retail2-19-10 AobadaiOver 600 stores; ¥900B sales FY2023
Co., Ltd.2-9-13 Nakameguro¥1.1T sales FY2023/24; global lighting supplier

Economic Growth and Challenges

Meguro's economy has experienced robust growth, particularly in and commercial sectors, driven by its desirable residential appeal and strategic location within 's inner wards. Residential land prices in the ward surged by 13.7% in 2025, matching Minato-ku for the highest increase among 's 23 special wards, reflecting strong demand from affluent buyers and investors amid limited supply. This appreciation aligns with broader trends, where mid-market rents in the 23 wards rose 6.4% year-over-year in late 2024, bolstering local property-related employment and tax revenues. Commercial hubs like Ebisu, anchored by developments such as Yebisu Garden Place, contribute to service-sector dominance, with retail, , and employing a significant portion of the ward's workforce, though precise ward-level employment data remains aggregated within 's tertiary industry share of 88.8% of GDP as of FY2019. Despite these gains, Meguro faces structural challenges that temper sustained expansion. High property costs, exemplified by average condominium prices exceeding ¥1.16 million per square meter in recent assessments, exacerbate affordability issues, fostering in neighborhoods like Nakameguro and potentially displacing lower-income households amid Tokyo's overall pressures. Urban density strains infrastructure, including aging stock vulnerable to seismic events in this earthquake-prone region, necessitating costly initiatives that balance growth with resilience. Environmental concerns, such as Tokyo-wide declines in tree canopy cover by 1.9% from 2013 to 2022—disproportionately affecting private land—pose additional hurdles to maintaining Meguro's green spaces like the area amid commercial encroachment. These factors, compounded by reliance on broader metropolitan economic cycles, highlight the need for targeted policies to mitigate inequality and support diversified employment beyond .

Education

Higher Education Institutions

The Komaba Campus of the , situated in the Komaba neighborhood of Meguro ward, serves as the primary site for the university's College of Arts and Sciences, which provides across liberal arts disciplines. This campus, spanning approximately 77 hectares, historically evolved from a former hunting preserve and agricultural school into the First Higher School in 1888 before integrating into the University of Tokyo structure post-1950. It accommodates around 7,000 students, emphasizing interdisciplinary foundational studies in the first two years followed by specialization. The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences also operates here, offering advanced programs in areas such as frontier sciences and multi-disciplinary studies. The Ookayama Campus, located in the Ookayama area of Meguro ward, hosts the engineering and science-focused programs of the former , which merged with on October 1, 2024, to form the Institute of Science Tokyo. This campus, established in 1924, features specialized facilities for research in fields like , , and , supporting over 5,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Key infrastructure includes laboratories and the Suzukakedai Area for interdisciplinary collaboration, contributing to Meguro's role as a hub for technical higher education. These institutions represent the predominant higher education presence in Meguro, with no other major universities or colleges maintaining primary campuses within the ward boundaries as of 2025, underscoring the area's concentration on elite national research universities rather than a broader array of private or specialized institutions.

K-12 and Public Schools

Meguro-ku operates 22 public elementary schools and 7 public junior high schools, providing for children aged 6 to 15 under Japan's national system. These institutions follow the standard 6-3 structure, emphasizing core subjects such as , , , , and moral education, with curricula aligned to Ministry of Education guidelines. Enrollment is determined by residential district, with options for designated school changes in cases of overcrowding or . As of May 1, 2025, the 22 elementary schools collectively enroll 9,991 students across grades 1 through 6. Notable examples include Higashiyama Elementary School with 1,023 students and Yakumo Elementary School with 405, reflecting varying neighborhood densities. These schools, many established in the Meiji and Taisho eras (e.g., Yakumo in 1873, Nakameguro in 1901), incorporate modern facilities while maintaining historical sites; land areas range from 5,769 m² at Komaba Elementary to 16,212 m² at Higashiyama. Support for non-Japanese-speaking students includes free classes at select schools such as Higashiyama, Dendo (likely a variant for Fudo), and Higashine Elementary. Public junior high schools enroll 2,711 students as of the same date, with examples including Meguro Chuo Junior High School (515 students) and Higashiyama Junior High School (408 students). The system has seen recent consolidation and new openings to address demographic shifts, such as Otori Junior High in 2015 and Meguro Minami and Nishi Junior High Schools in 2025, aiming to balance class sizes averaging 30-35 students. Japanese language support extends to junior highs, though specific schools vary; overall, these institutions prioritize academic preparation for high school entrance exams while fostering extracurricular activities like clubs and sports. Low truancy rates align with Tokyo-wide trends, supported by ward consultations for enrollment and integration.

International and Specialized Schools

Meguro ward accommodates several , primarily focused on and elementary for and bilingual families, delivering English-language curricula alongside elements of Japanese to facilitate integration. These institutions offer alternatives to the Japanese public system, emphasizing , , and global perspectives, with enrollment drawn from diverse nationalities. The Aoba Japan International School's Meguro Campus, located at 2-11-5 Aobadai, serves students from 18 months to 6 years (K2 to K5) with the Primary Years Programme (IB PYP), featuring transdisciplinary units, explicit instruction, and technology integration in a fully English-medium environment supplemented by classes. This campus, part of a network founded in 1976 with IB Continuum accreditation, includes unique provisions such as halal-certified nutritious lunches from Cezar's Kitchen, after-school care until 5:45 p.m., extracurriculars like , , and swimming, and bus services across central . The broader Aoba system enrolls approximately 790 students from 46 nationalities, underscoring its international orientation. Gregg , established in 1986 at 1-14-6 Jiyugaoka, provides co-educational programs from 12 months to 13 years, encompassing , , elementary, and junior high levels with a blending international standards and Japanese elements to support long-term residency. The school emphasizes small class sizes and personalized development for a diverse body, operating from its Meguro facility to serve local communities. Beyondia International School Meguro, situated at 1-2-12 Shimomeguro in the Shirokane Building, delivers and education with an original incorporating English assessments, , , and extracurricular activities like show-and-tell, all included in tuition to promote and in an English-immersion setting. As an IB-authorized , it aligns with PYP principles to cultivate foundational skills for international pathways. Smaller specialized options include Kodomo Edu International School at 3-37-10 Kamimeguro, targeting ages 2 to 6 with co-educational and programs focused on holistic early learning. These schools collectively address the needs of Meguro's international resident population, though secondary-level is more commonly accessed in adjacent wards.

Transportation

Rail and Mass Transit Systems

Meguro ward benefits from extensive rail connectivity as part of Tokyo's integrated mass transit network, primarily served by JR East, , , , and Keio lines. These systems facilitate high-volume commuter traffic, linking the ward to central Tokyo districts, , and northern suburbs with frequent services operating from early morning to late evening. Meguro Station, situated on the boundary with ward, functions as a primary entry point for the area, accommodating the JR Yamanote Line's clockwise and counterclockwise loops that connect to , , and within approximately 5-15 minutes. The station also integrates services extending northward to Akabane-Iwabuchi and southward through interline operations with the to Nishi-Takashimadaira. Tokyu trains depart from here, providing direct access to Yokohama's Hiyoshi Station via intermediate stops in Ota and wards. Naka-Meguro Station, fully within Meguro ward, serves as a critical interchange for the Tokyu Toyoko Line, which offers express and local services to and , and the , terminating here after routing through , , and to Kita-Senju. This station handles substantial daily passenger volumes, supporting residential and commercial flows in the ward's Nakameguro district. Additional stations include Jiyugaoka on the Tokyu Toyoko Line, a hub for local shopping and dining with connections mirroring Naka-Meguro's, and Komaba-Todaimae on the Keio Inokashira Line, providing access to via express services and serving the University of Tokyo's Komaba campus vicinity. These facilities underscore Meguro's role in Tokyo's radial transit pattern, with seamless fare integration via IC cards like and across operators.

Road Networks and Highways

The Metropolitan Expressway Route No. 2, designated as the Meguro Route, forms a key component of Tokyo's network, providing elevated tolled access through Meguro ward. This radial route extends from the Ichinohashi Junction in adjacent Minato ward southward to Togoshi in ward, with its core 5.9-kilometer section opened to traffic in to alleviate congestion in the growing urban core. The supports daily vehicular flows exceeding typical urban capacities, integrating with broader ring routes like the Central Circular Route for circumferential connectivity. The Meguro Interchange (IC), located within the ward, functions primarily as an on-ramp for vehicles heading toward the Ichinohashi JCT and an off-ramp for those arriving from that direction, reflecting directional access controls common in 's expressway design to manage peak-hour volumes. This infrastructure handles substantial traffic, contributing to Meguro's role as a transit corridor between central and southern suburbs, though it has prompted local measures for noise mitigation and urban integration since its construction. On the surface level, Meguro's road network features a grid of arterial streets overlaid with national and metropolitan routes adapted to dense residential and commercial zones. National Route 246, a 125-kilometer highway originating in Chiyoda ward and extending southwestward, bisects the ward, serving as a primary north-south that connects Shibuya's commercial hubs to Setagaya's residential areas while accommodating heavy commuter and freight movement. Supporting local distribution are Tokyo Metropolitan Roads such as Route 317, which parallels eastern boundaries and links to adjacent wards, forming part of the secondary network for non-expressway travel. These roads, often elevated or widened post-1960s urbanization, prioritize vehicular efficiency amid narrow legacy streets, with ongoing maintenance addressing seismic resilience in line with national standards.

Culture and Attractions

Natural and Green Spaces

The Meguro River, running through the ward, features linear parks along its banks that serve as key green spaces, particularly renowned for their sakura viewing during late March to early April, when approximately 800 cherry trees bloom, drawing large crowds for hanami. These areas include Nakameguro Park and sections near Dendō Square Park, where annual cherry blossom festivals occur, such as events on March 29-30 featuring performances and food stalls from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The riverbanks provide pedestrian paths and illuminated night views, enhancing accessibility in an urban setting. Meguro Sky Garden, a rooftop constructed over the Ōhashi Junction highway in 2013, spans 7,000 square meters in a 400-meter circular loop elevated 15 to 35 meters above street level, incorporating over 1,000 trees, a , bamboo grove, and play areas with panoramic city views, including on clear days. Open daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. free of charge, it functions as an urban oasis mitigating noise from underlying expressways while promoting through zoned landscapes. The Institute for , located near Meguro Station, preserves a 20-hectare with ponds, marshlands, botanical gardens, and walking trails amidst secondary forests, offering a rare semi-wild in central managed for educational and conservation purposes since its establishment in 1949 by the . Access to the garden area requires a 200-yen , limiting visitors to maintain ecological , with features like grass fields and quiet paths providing respite from urban density. Other notable green areas include Komaba Park, adjacent to the University of Tokyo's Komaba Campus, encompassing wooded grounds and open spaces for recreation, and smaller sites like Saigoyama Park and Himonya Park, which offer localized hilly terrain, playgrounds, and seasonal flora contributing to the ward's overall green coverage of approximately 10% of its 14.67 square kilometer area. These spaces collectively support , flood mitigation along the , and public health amid Tokyo's high-density environment.

Cultural and Historical Sites

Ryūsen-ji Temple, also known as Meguro Fudō, stands as one of Meguro's oldest religious sites, established in 808 by the monk Ennin to enshrine a statue of , the immovable in . The temple gained prominence during the for its protective role among Tokyo's guardian deities and attracts visitors for its annual festivals, including fire rituals symbolizing purification. The former residence of Marquis Toshinari Maeda in Komaba Park exemplifies early 20th-century fusion of Western and . Built between 1927 and 1930, the Western-style brick mansion served as the for the 16th head of the prominent , originally from the , and hosted overseas dignitaries during the . A adjacent Japanese-style annex complemented the main structure, reflecting the era's modernization trends while preserving traditional elements; the site now functions as a public cultural asset within the park, which originated as hunting grounds in the late . The Japan Folk Crafts Museum, founded in 1936 by philosopher , preserves and exhibits —anonymous, utilitarian crafts emphasizing natural materials and simplicity from across Japan and Asia. Housed in a purpose-built structure using traditional techniques, the museum's collection spans , textiles, and , promoting Yanagi's philosophy of beauty in everyday objects produced by common artisans rather than elites. Ten'onzan Gōhyaku Rakan-ji Temple, affectionately called "Meguro no Rakan-san," features over 300 stone statues of rakan (arhats), disciples of , each with distinct expressions carved in the 18th and 19th centuries. Originally established in 1695 in present-day Koto Ward before relocating to Meguro, the temple's collection, once numbering 536 figures, draws pilgrims seeking spiritual solace amid its serene gardens.

Religious and Traditional Institutions

Meguro hosts several prominent Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines that reflect Japan's syncretic religious traditions, with many dating back centuries and serving as centers for local rituals and festivals. The most notable is Ryūsenji Temple, commonly known as Meguro Fudō, a sect Buddhist established in 808 CE by the priest Kobo Daishi and recognized as one of Japan's three major Fudō temples dedicated to the deity Fudō Myō-ō, the immovable wisdom king symbolizing protection and purification. The temple complex includes a main hall, waterfall for purification rites, and annual fire rituals, drawing pilgrims for goma fire ceremonies where wooden sticks inscribed with prayers are burned to invoke the deity's power. Daienji Temple, located west of Meguro Station along the , is designated a national and important , featuring a thatched-roof main hall from the and artifacts linked to its founding in the era (1185–1333). It preserves traditional practices and hosts seasonal events tied to . Yūtenji Temple, another key site, originated in the and is famed for its connection to the Yūtenbō, with its grounds encompassing a for notable figures and annual observances of bean-throwing rituals to ward off evil. Shinto institutions include Ōtori Shrine, established during the , which emphasizes agricultural and warrior deities and is renowned for its Tori no Ichi market fairs in November, where visitors purchase decorative rakes (kumade) believed to bring prosperity based on historical folklore. Jiyūgaoka Kumano Shrine upholds ancient shrine architecture and rituals invoking the Kumano deities for health and safe . Traditional pilgrimages, such as the Seven Lucky Gods route encompassing temples like Kakurinji (for Bishamonten) and Zuishōji (for Hotei), perpetuate Edo-period of seeking fortune through sequential visits, often stamped with seals as proof of completion. These sites maintain causal continuity with pre-modern Japanese spirituality, prioritizing empirical ritual efficacy over modern reinterpretations, though participation has declined amid urbanization, with attendance at major festivals numbering in the thousands annually per official ward records.

International Relations

Sister Cities and Partnerships

Meguro has established formal friendly city relationships with two international districts and three domestic cities, focusing on cultural, educational, and economic exchanges. These partnerships emphasize mutual development, historical ties, and post-disaster support, such as aid provided to cities following the . Internationally, Meguro signed a friendly cooperation agreement with Dongcheng District in , , on October 26, 1991, initially with its predecessor Chongwen District; the relationship was reaffirmed on September 1, 2011, after administrative merger, promoting exchanges in , , and youth programs. In 2019, Meguro formalized a friendly city agreement with Jungnang District in , , on July 26, building on a 2013 memorandum of understanding and prior trilateral ties via 's Dongcheng District; activities include student basketball tournaments and online cultural exchanges among the three districts. Domestically, Meguro concluded a friendly city agreement with in on September 18, 2010, fostering resident bonds through events like networking gatherings since 1996 and post-earthquake recovery support, marked by a 15th commemoration planned for October 28, 2025. Exchanges with Kakuda City in , initiated in 1982 ( 57), include annual elementary school homestay programs and rice cultivation activities, formalized as a friendly city tie. Additionally, a 2017 friendly city agreement with in leverages historical connections, such as the Maeda clan's former residence in Meguro's Komaba area, with joint promotional features in local media by 2022.
Partner City/DistrictCountry/LocationAgreement DateKey Focus Areas
Dongcheng District, October 26, 1991 (reaffirmed 2011)Education, culture, youth exchanges
Jungnang District, July 26, 2019Trilateral student sports, online cultural programs
Kesennuma City, JapanSeptember 18, 2010Disaster recovery, resident networking
Kakuda City, JapanExchanges since 1982Elementary school homestays, agriculture
Kanazawa City, Japan2017Historical ties, mutual promotion

Foreign Diplomatic Presence

Meguro hosts embassies of multiple nations, reflecting its role as a residential and diplomatic area in southwestern . These include representations from African countries such as at 2-10-67 Mita (153-0062), at 1-19-15 Higashigaoka (152-0021), at 5-18-10 Shimomeguro (153-0064), at 1-5-4 Aobadai (153-0042), at 1-34-11 Higashigaoka (152-0021), at 3-24-3 Yakumo (152-0023), and at 1-3-4 Aobadai (153-0042). Additional embassies are those of at 6-20-28 Shimomeguro (153-0064), at 2-13-5 Mita (153-0062), and the at 4-10-6 Meguro (153-0063).
CountryAddressPostal Code
2-10-67 Mita153-0062
1-19-15 Higashigaoka152-0021
5-18-10 Shimomeguro153-0064
1-5-4 Aobadai153-0042
1-34-11 Higashigaoka152-0021
3-24-3 Yakumo152-0023
6-20-28 Shimomeguro153-0064
2-13-5 Mita153-0062
1-3-4 Aobadai153-0042
4-10-6 Meguro153-0063
The addresses are verified through Japan's listings and official embassy contacts, with many concentrated in quieter residential districts like Aobadai and Higashigaoka to facilitate secure operations away from central Tokyo's density. This diplomatic footprint underscores Meguro's appeal for mid-sized embassies seeking proximity to urban amenities while maintaining lower profiles.

Notable Figures

Prominent Residents and Natives

Tōru Iwatani (born January 25, 1955), a pioneering designer, was born in Meguro and is renowned for creating the Pac-Man in 1980 while working at , which became a global cultural phenomenon selling over 400,000 cabinets by 1982. Yumiko Fujita (born September 12, 1945), an actress known for roles in films such as Under the Flag of the Rising Sun (1972), was born in Meguro and has appeared in over 100 productions spanning drama and historical genres. Waka Inoue (born May 13, 1980), a model, actress, and former gravure idol who debuted in 2002, was born in Meguro under her birth name Naoko Niimura and gained prominence through television appearances and DVDs emphasizing her public image. Shigeru Izumiya (born May 11, 1948), a folk singer, poet, and actor raised in Meguro after birth in , co-founded For Life Records in 1975 and released hits like "Katte ni Sasatte" (1977), while voicing characters in anime such as . Aki Mizusawa (born December 5, 1954), an actress with credits in series like (1998), was born in Meguro and active in Japanese television from the 1980s onward. Among residents, , lead singer of the idol group (active 1988–2016) and actor in dramas such as (1996), has maintained a primary residence in Meguro, including a reported four-story mansion valued at approximately 1 billion yen as of 2022. His wife, singer (born 1970), also resides there, having sold over 18 million records since her 1988 debut with affiliates.

References

  1. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Tokyo_Metropolitan_Road_Route_317
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