Meguro Gajoen (Meguro Ward, Tokyo)
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Meguro Gajoen (now Hotel Gajoen Tokyo) is a large hotel, wedding hall, and cultural facility that incorporates a wealth of Japanese design. From the Taisho to Showa periods, it developed with the aim of being a "collection of beauty" incorporating Japanese arts, crafts, and decorations. Many of the luxurious decorations that make use of traditional Japanese techniques remain within the building, including lacquerware, wood carvings, murals, and sliding door paintings. The "Hundred Steps Staircase" in particular is known as a highlight that conveys the Japanese art space of prewar times to the present day.
Currently, it is a complex that combines a hotel, banquet hall (wedding venue), restaurant, art exhibition space (special exhibitions using the 100-step staircase), and more, and is popular with a wide range of people, from tourists to wedding hall users.
Highlights
- hundred steps: The staircase is a famous feature of the museum, and each room around it is decorated with Japanese paintings and lacquerware. Each room has a different theme and style, making it a valuable space in terms of architecture and art history. Special exhibitions are often held, and you can visit the rooms in conjunction with the exhibitions.
- Luxurious banquet hall with Japanese-style interiorThe large hall and banquet hall used for weddings are beautifully decorated, and you can enjoy the blend of Japanese and Western design and intricate craftsmanship.
- Restaurants and traditional Japanese restaurants within GajoenThere are several restaurants serving Japanese, Chinese, French, and more, so you can enjoy your meal while enjoying the hotel's ambiance. Many of the restaurants have special rooms and private rooms, making them ideal for entertaining or celebrating (reservations required).
- Gardens and decorative spacesThere is a small Japanese garden, a pond, and seasonal decorations (for New Year, festivals, etc.), so you can enjoy the atmosphere just by strolling around the building.
- Night illuminationAt night, the interior and exterior lighting creates a charming atmosphere, especially during banquets and weddings.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
Address: 1-8-1 Shimomeguro, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-0064
Official website:Hotel Gajoen Tokyo Official Website
- train: About a 3-5 minute walk from Meguro Station (direct trains available on the JR Yamanote Line, Tokyu Meguro Line, Tokyo Metro Namboku Line, and Toei Mita Line). The walking route varies depending on the ticket gate and exit, so please follow the exit signs towards Meguro Gajoen.
- Buses and taxis: It is within one meter of the taxi ride from Meguro Station. There is also a Toei bus stop near Meguro Station.
- From Haneda and NaritaFrom the airport, take the limousine bus or train to Shinagawa or Shibuya and get off at Meguro Station. The travel time will vary depending on your departure point, but it will take approximately 30 to 60 minutes from central Tokyo.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Viewing the Hundred Steps Staircase only: 30-60 minutes
- Tour + on-site cafe and snacks: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Meal + leisurely sightseeing (including lunch or dinner): 2-3 hours
- For weddings and banquets: Half a day to a full day (depending on the ceremony)
Nearby spots
- Meguro River/Nakameguro area: A popular spot lined with cherry blossom trees, cafes, and shops. It gets especially crowded during cherry blossom season (walk or take a short train).
- Meguro Parasitological Museum: A small museum with a unique theme, within walking distance of Meguro Gajoen.
- Meguro Fudoson (Ryusenzhi Temple): Recommended for strolling around this ancient temple.
- Shopping and gourmet around Meguro StationThere are plenty of restaurants and commercial facilities around the station.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Photography Restrictions: Photography is prohibited or restricted in some areas of the museum (especially exhibition rooms and ceremony halls). Please follow the signs when entering and when visiting exhibits.
- Admission and exhibition fees may apply: Public exhibitions at the Hundred Steps Staircase often require an admission fee and are only held for a limited period. Please check the official website in advance for event and ticket information.
- congestion: The restaurant is crowded on weekends, public holidays, cherry blossom season, and wedding season. We recommend making reservations in advance.
- Events and private parties: Some areas may be closed due to weddings or private events. It's best to check availability before you go.
- Barrier-free: The historical spaces within the museum (such as the Hundred Steps Staircase) have steps and narrow passageways, so not all areas are wheelchair accessible. If necessary, please inquire in advance about whether the facility is wheelchair accessible.
- Dress Code and Manners: Some areas within the building have a formal atmosphere, so please be sure to dress appropriately for the occasion, especially when visiting restaurants or wedding halls.
Meguro Gajoen is a unique space where you can feel the strong aesthetic sense of Japanese culture. You can enjoy a fulfilling time by combining exhibitions, restaurants, and events. Please check the official website for the latest exhibition information, opening hours, fees, and reservation status before visiting.
