Meguro, Tokyo

Meguro, Tokyo
Name	Meguro
Native name	目黒区
Settlement type	Special ward
Coordinates	35, 38, N, 139...
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	Japan
Subdivision type1	Region
Subdivision name1	Kantō region
Subdivision type2	Prefecture
Subdivision name2	Tokyo
Area total km2	14.70
Population total	286,905
Population as of	2023
Population density km2	auto
Leader title	Mayor
Leader name	Eiji Aoki
Blank name sec1	City symbols
Blank info sec1	Tree: Camphor laurel, Flower: Rhododendron
Website	https://www.city.meguro.tokyo.jp/

Meguro, Tokyo. It is one of the 23 Special wards of Tokyo, located southwest of the Tokyo Imperial Palace. The ward is known for its residential charm, upscale neighborhoods, and cultural institutions like the Meguro Parasitological Museum. It is bisected by the famous Meguro River, lined with hundreds of Somei-Yoshino cherry trees that attract visitors during hanami season.

History

The area's history is deeply connected to the Edo period, when it served as a post station on the important Ōshū Kaidō highway. The name is derived from the "Meguro Fudō," a temple dedicated to the Buddhist deity Fudō Myōō, whose statue was said to have black eyes. During the Meiji Restoration, it became part of Tokyo-fu and was largely agricultural before developing into a residential suburb. It sustained damage during the Great Kantō earthquake of 1923 and the Bombing of Tokyo in World War II. Meguro Ward was officially established in 1947 under the Local Autonomy Law during the Occupation of Japan.

Geography

Situated in the southwestern part of the Tokyo Metropolis, it is bordered by Shibuya to the north, Ōta to the south, Setagaya to the west, and Shinagawa to the east. The central geographical feature is the Meguro River, which flows from Setagaya through the ward into Tokyo Bay. The terrain is relatively flat, with gentle slopes in areas like the Yamate-dōri corridor. Notable districts within its boundaries include the upscale Nakameguro, Jiyūgaoka, and Meguro areas.

Demographics

As of 2023, it has an estimated population of approximately 286,905, with a population density ranking it among the more moderately populated of the Special wards of Tokyo. The ward has a significant population of foreign residents, including communities from China, South Korea, and Western nations. It is known for its affluent residential character, with neighborhoods like Shimomeguro and Aobadai attracting families and professionals. The age demographic shows a higher proportion of older adults compared to central wards like Shibuya.

Economy

The economy is a mix of commercial and residential, with no single dominant industry. It hosts the headquarters of major corporations like ASCII Media Works, DeNA, and Pia Corporation. The Jiyūgaoka district is a renowned commercial and fashion hub, often compared to Paris, featuring boutiques, cafes, and department stores like Kirin City. The Nakameguro area along the river is famous for its trendy restaurants, bars, and galleries, contributing significantly to local tourism and service sectors.

Landmarks and culture

Key landmarks include the unique Meguro Parasitological Museum, the historic Meguro Gajoen complex, and the tranquil Happo-en garden. The Meguro River is the centerpiece for the annual cherry blossom viewings, with the Nakameguro stretch being particularly famous. Cultural institutions include the Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum, located in the former residence of Prince Asaka, and the Meguro Museum of Art. The ward is also known for the Meguro Sky Garden, a rooftop park built over the Yamate Tunnel.

Education

The ward operates numerous public elementary and junior high schools under the Meguro City Board of Education. It is home to several prestigious private and national institutions, including Komaba Junior High School and Komaba High School, both affiliated with the University of Tsukuba. Higher education and research facilities include the Tokyo Institute of Technology's Suzukakedai Campus and parts of the University of Tokyo's Komaba Campus. International schools, such as the Tokyo Korean School, are also located here.

Transportation

Major railway hubs include Meguro Station, served by the Yamanote Line, Tōkyū Meguro Line, Namboku Line, and Mita Line, providing direct access to Shibuya and Shinagawa. The Tōkyū Tōyoko Line runs through Nakameguro Station and Jiyūgaoka Station, connecting to Yokohama. The Shuto Expressway's No. 3 line runs along the ward's eastern edge. Key arterial roads include Yamate-dōri and Komazawa-dōri, facilitating bus and vehicular traffic across the region.

Category:Special wards of Tokyo