Meguro River, renowned for its cherry blossoms in spring, transforms into a stunning autumn landscape from late November to early December. Located in the bustling heart of Tokyo, this 3.8-kilometer river offers visitors a peaceful and scenic experience as the cherry trees lining its banks turn vivid shades of red, orange, and yellow. The combination of urban sophistication with natural beauty makes the river an ideal destination for autumn foliage viewing and leisurely strolls.
Overview
| Place Name | Meguro River (目黒川) |
| Best Viewing Time | Late November to early December |
| Festival | Meguro River Illuminations (November 10 – January 8) |
| Illumination | 5 PM to 10 PM, 380,000 LED lights |
| Foliage | Cherry trees, hanamizuki, ginkgo |
| Business Hours | Open 24 hours for walks; illuminations from 5 PM |
| Admission | Free |
| Related Site | N/A |
Why Meguro River is Worth Visiting in Autumn
- Vibrant Autumn Foliage: The cherry trees along Meguro River provide a vibrant display of reds, oranges, and yellows, reflected beautifully in the river’s waters.
- Illuminations: The seasonal LED illuminations create a magical evening atmosphere, enhancing the natural beauty of the autumn colors.
- Riverside Dining: The surrounding Nakameguro neighborhood offers stylish cafes and restaurants with views of the river and foliage.
- Less Crowded than Spring: Autumn offers a quieter, more relaxed experience compared to the busy cherry blossom season.
Meguro River Fall Foliage
Meguro River’s transformation into a vibrant autumn scene is truly breathtaking. Visitors can stroll along the 4-kilometer-long riverside promenade, where cherry trees like the someiyoshino, which are typically known for their spring blossoms, take on warm hues of yellow and orange. These colors, combined with other trees such as hanamizuki and nankin-haze, create a diverse palette. Popular viewing spots include Nakameguro, Gotanda Fureai Mizube Hiroba, and Osaki Bridge, each offering unique vantage points of the autumn scenery.
Facilities & Ameneties
The Meguro River area is well-equipped to ensure a pleasant autumn experience for visitors. A 4-kilometer riverside promenade runs along the river, allowing leisurely walks amidst the vibrant fall colors. Benches are placed at scenic points like Gotanda Fureai Mizube Hiroba, offering a chance to sit and take in the serene reflection of the foliage on the water. For evening strolls, street lighting ensures a safe and picturesque walk, particularly during the seasonal illuminations. Along the river, numerous cafes and restaurants provide outdoor seating, allowing guests to enjoy both meals and the stunning autumn views. Public restrooms are conveniently located near Nakameguro and Gotanda stations, making it easy for visitors to stay comfortable during their explorations.
Dining Options
Dining by the Meguro River offers a delightful way to combine great food with breathtaking autumn views. Popular cafes and restaurants line the riverside, with each venue offering its own unique atmosphere. For those seeking a laid-back experience, FRAMES Nakameguro is a popular choice, staying open until late and offering a cozy space to enjoy the fall scenery. Café Façon stands out for its signature coffee jelly, served in a perfect spot to admire the surrounding foliage. Huit, a chic restaurant known for its seasonal menus, provides a picturesque dining experience where guests can enjoy the changing colors of the leaves. The Riverside Club, a favorite for both morning and evening meals, offers large windows that perfectly frame the autumn views. Dining reservations are recommended, as the riverside spots are particularly popular during peak foliage season.
Travel Tips
- Visit Early: For fewer crowds, visit during early mornings or weekdays.
- Plan for Evenings: The illuminations from 17:00 to 22:00 are a must-see.
- Dress Warmly: Evenings can get chilly along the river, so dress in layers.
- Reserve Ahead: Dining spots can be crowded, so reservations are recommended.
How to Get to Meguro River
By Train
The most convenient stations are:
- Nakameguro Station: Served by the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line and Tokyu Toyoko Line, it’s a short walk from the river.
- Meguro Station: JR Yamanote Line, Tokyo Metro Namboku Line, and others. Walk 10 minutes to the river.
- Ikejiri-Ohashi Station: For the southern part of the river, take the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line.
By Bus
Multiple bus lines stop near the river, including buses from Nakameguro and Meguro stations.
By Car
Parking is very limited, so public transport is highly recommended.
