Meguro Gajoen 目黒雅叙園

Back in May, a hiking friend invited me to a special exhibition featuring Japanese flower arrangements, called ikebana. Photography was prohibited in the exhibition space;  however, I was able to snap shots of the host building, Meguro Gajoen. Tucked in one of Tokyo's best districts, Meguro Gajoen houses a hotel, conference rooms, restaurants and the most beautiful toilet I have ever seen.

Please enjoy the photos!

Outside garden area with seating for tea:

Inside, you can find a large torii (gate) flanked by a mikoshi (a portable shrine):

Meguro Gajoen is immense; a huge glass atrium holds two restaurants -- one for light lunches and teas, the other, a traditional Japanese house which serves course meals called kaiseki riyori. (see photo above)


My friend, who is a former ikebana teacher, encouraged me to explore the outside gardens. We encountered a delicate waterfall and hiking trail -- all in the center of Tokyo!

As mentioned earlier, Meguro Gajoen's best feature is the ladies toilet, on the first floor, opposite one restaurant. My friend said "you must go to the loo here..and take your camera!!" (laugh) So I did. ^_^

Inside, the ceilings are decorated in gold leaf, showing Japanese senso (folding paper fans).

Bottom: small bridge to the toilets and a private powder room.

A month later, I invited another friend for afternoon tea at Meguro Gajoen. The tea set consisted of numerous sweets; after eating, my friend and I felt a little sick due to the sugar rush...

Left: chocolate cake, fruit, macaroons and tart. Right: chestnut mousse

Meguro Gajoen is a beautiful spot in the heart of Tokyo. If you visit this big city in Japan, I recommend popping in to enjoy the gardens and waterfalls. You may spot some wedding couples having their photographs taken here as well. Enjoy Tokyo!


~ Information ~ 

Meguro Gajoen is a short, 5 minute walk from Meguro Station (Toyoko Line). If you walk, you can pass by the Japanese headquarters of Amazon! There is also a free shuttle bus opposite the station that will whisk you to the entrance of Meguro Gajoen -- a good option if it's raining. 

The website is HERE. 

The afternoon tea is held at Pandora; get a seat near the waterfalls for the best view. Afternoon tea is ¥2,400 (approximately $24) each. It includes: a selection of teas and coffees, sandwiches, and many sweets on 3-tier plates. Reservations are not necessary.