Walking in the forest and marshlands of the Institute for Nature Study in Meguro makes for a gorgeous green escape from the hustle and bustle of urban Tokyo.
Institute for Nature Study in Meguro - image © Florentyna Leow
It’s hard to believe that there might be a forest in the middle of a city like Tokyo, least of all within the Yamanote Line. Meguro, too, is an otherwise ordinary and mostly residential area. But the Institute for Nature Study, a nature reserve near Meguro Station, defies all expectations for urban Tokyo.
Divided into three main sections, there are ponds to see, botanical gardens and marshland to explore, and trails to walk along. Unsurprisingly, the Institute for Nature Study is fantastic for those who love plants and nature. But, it’s also remarkable in its biodiversity, and is a favorite with birdwatchers and lovers of animal and insect life in general.
With somewhere like Shinjuku Gyoen - a park, rather than a nature reserve - the sight of skyscrapers in the distance is a constant reminder that you’re in the middle of a metropolis. However, in the Institute of Nature Study, natural forests and marshland dominate, and save for the faint sound of cars rumbling past along the perimeter, it feels as though you’ve left Tokyo behind for another world. Only 300 people are allowed in at any one time, helping preserve the peace and tranquility within.
An hour or two spent walking along the trails is a great break from the chaos of the city - highly recommended, especially if you’re passing through the area.
English name:
Institute for Nature Study in Meguro
Japanese name:
国立科学博物館附属自然教育園
English address:
5-21-5 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-0071
Japanese address:
〒108-0071 東京都港区白金台5-21-5
Opening hours:
September-April: 9am-4:30pm (last entry 4pm)
May-August: 9am-5pm (last entry 4pm)
Closed Monday or the following Tuesday when Monday is a national holiday, and the next day of a national holiday (except Saturday and Sunday)
Admission:
Adults: 310
High school students and younger: free
Nearest Transport:
Subway: 4-minute walk from exit 1 of Shirokanedai Station on the Tokyo Metro Namboku line, and Toei Mita line.
Train: 7-minute walk from the east exit of Meguro Station on the JR Yamanote line.
Nearest Hotels:
:: Check availability and pricing for hotels near Institute for Nature Study in Meguro on Booking.com or Agoda.com.
Telephone:
+81-3-3441-7176
Website:
Official Website (English)
Near To Here:
Institute for Nature Study is located in Tokyo's Ebisu district. See our complete list of things to do in Ebisu, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.
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