Ebisu → Daikanyama
17:30-19:30
Duration: 2 hours
Airport transfer to Ebisu & Hotel check-in (14:00-17:30)
Explore Daikanyama T-SITE (17:30-18:30)
Late Afternoon Meal: Ebisu Kaigan (18:30-19:30)
💡 Upon arrival at NRT at 14:00, allow 1-1.5 hours for immigration and baggage. Take the Narita Express (N'EX) to Shibuya Station, then transfer to the JR Yamanote Line for one stop to Ebisu Station. Alternatively, a Limousine Bus directly to Ebisu Garden Place is available. After check-in, walk from your hotel near Ebisu Station to Daikanyama T-SITE (approx. 15-20 min walk).
📍 東京都渋谷区恵比寿南1-2-5
This casual local diner offers fresh and delicious Japanese seafood bowls, perfect for a satisfying yet light late afternoon meal after your arrival. Its relaxed atmosphere and focus on quality ingredients align with the 'relaxing itinerary' and provides an authentic local dining experience without the fuss of formal dining.
💡 Insider Tip: While not specifically catering to dietary restrictions, you can often request 'sashimi-don' (raw fish bowl) without rice for a lower carb option, or inquire about 'kaisen-don' (seafood bowl) ingredients if you have specific allergies. English menus are usually available. The portions are generous and the seafood is very fresh.
🔄 Backup:
恵比寿ラーメン Ebisu Ramen - A reliable ramen shop in Ebisu, offering a quick and hearty meal if Ebisu Kaigan is unexpectedly closed or has a long queue. Ramen is a classic Japanese comfort food.
📍 東京都渋谷区猿楽町17-5
🛒 Recommended: Unique Japanese books and magazines, Designer stationery, Art prints, Gourmet food items, Lifestyle goods
💡 Insider Tip: Daikanyama T-SITE is a beautiful complex of interconnected buildings housing Tsutaya Books, cafes, and specialty shops. It's known for its sophisticated selection and relaxed ambiance. Look for limited edition books or unique Japanese crafts. Tax-free shopping is available at some stores within the complex for purchases over ¥5,000. Best to visit in the late afternoon for a more relaxed browse.
🗺️ View on Google MapsThe modern, interlocking white facade of Daikanyama T-SITE, especially the Tsutaya Books buildings, creates a stunning architectural backdrop. The surrounding greenery and outdoor seating areas add to its charm.
📐 Best Angle: From the central courtyard looking towards the main Tsutaya Books buildings, capturing the 'T' logo patterns on the facade. Also, the pathways between the buildings offer great leading lines.
🗺️ View on Google MapsPurchase your N'EX ticket in advance online or immediately upon arrival at NRT to save time. For Daikanyama, walking from Ebisu is efficient and allows you to enjoy the neighborhood.
If Daikanyama T-SITE is too crowded, explore the smaller boutiques and cafes along the streets of Daikanyama instead. If Ebisu Kaigan has a queue exceeding 10 minutes, proceed to Ebisu Ramen.
Daikanyama T-SITE has covered walkways and indoor shops, making it suitable for rain. For dining, both Ebisu Kaigan and Ebisu Ramen are indoor venues.
19:30-21:30
Duration: 2 hours
Enjoy Ebisu Garden Place night view (19:30-20:00)
Dinner at The Kitchen Salvatore Cuomo Ebisu (20:00-21:30)
💡 Ebisu Garden Place is easily accessible via the 'Sky Walk' moving walkway from Ebisu Station, or a short walk from the station exit.
📍 東京都渋谷区恵比寿4-20-3 恵比寿ガーデンプレイスタワー 38F
This restaurant perfectly fulfills your wish for 'dinner at restaurants with night views' and 'Ebisu Garden Place night view'. Located on the 38th floor of Ebisu Garden Place Tower, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo at night, creating a romantic and memorable dining experience. The trendy Italian cuisine provides a delightful culinary contrast to the local Japanese flavors.
💡 Insider Tip: Make a reservation well in advance (e.g., via Tabelog or phone: '予約したいのですが' - Yoyaku shitai no desu ga) and specifically request a window table ('窓側の席をお願いします' - Mado-gawa no seki o onegai shimasu). While Italian, they are generally accommodating for common dietary requests if communicated clearly (e.g., 'ベジタリアンです' - Bejitarian desu for vegetarian). Their pizzas are particularly renowned.
🔄 Backup:
Longrain - Located one floor above Salvatore Cuomo in the same tower, Longrain offers modern Thai cuisine with equally stunning night views. It's an excellent backup for a trendy dinner with a view if Salvatore Cuomo is fully booked.
📍 東京都渋谷区恵比寿4-20-7
🛒 Recommended: Japanese confectionery (wagashi), High-quality green tea, Cosmetics, Fashion accessories, Gourmet food items from the basement 'depachika'
💡 Insider Tip: Ebisu Mitsukoshi, located within Ebisu Garden Place, is a refined department store. Even if you're not planning major shopping, a quick visit to the basement 'depachika' (food hall) is a treat for the senses, offering beautifully packaged sweets and gourmet foods. Most department stores offer tax-free shopping for tourists on eligible purchases.
🗺️ View on Google MapsEbisu Garden Place transforms into a magical wonderland at night, especially with the illumination of the Baccarat chandelier (seasonal, but often present in winter) and the sparkling city lights from the observation deck of the Garden Place Tower.
📐 Best Angle: From the observation deck on the 38th or 39th floor of the Ebisu Garden Place Tower (accessible via elevator) for panoramic city views. Also, from the central plaza, capturing the Baccarat chandelier (if present) against the backdrop of the tower.
🗺️ View on Google MapsBook your dinner reservation at least a week in advance, especially for a Saturday evening, to secure a window seat and avoid any queues.
If dinner at Salvatore Cuomo is not possible, Longrain (one floor above) is an excellent alternative for a similar ambiance and views. If both are fully booked, consider other restaurants within Ebisu Garden Place or explore the many dining options around Ebisu Station, though night views might be limited.
Ebisu Garden Place is largely covered and connected by the 'Sky Walk' from Ebisu Station, making it an ideal rain-friendly destination. The restaurants are indoors.
21:30-22:30
Duration: 1 hour
Specialty coffee at Sarutahiko Coffee (21:30-22:00)
Relaxing stroll back to hotel (22:00-22:30)
💡 Sarutahiko Coffee Ebisu Honten is located very close to Ebisu Station, making it a convenient stop after dinner at Ebisu Garden Place.
📍 東京都渋谷区恵比寿1-6-6
This popular local coffee shop is renowned for its quality craft coffee and cozy, welcoming atmosphere. It's the perfect spot to wind down after a day of travel and exploration, enjoying a delicious brew or a light dessert. Its location near Ebisu Station makes it convenient for a final stop before heading back to your accommodation.
💡 Insider Tip: Try their signature 'Sarutahiko Blend' or seasonal pour-over options. They also offer a selection of pastries and cakes that pair well with their coffee. It's a great place to experience local Japanese specialty coffee culture. They are generally open until 22:30 or 23:00, but always check their exact closing time.
🔄 Backup:
Streamer Coffee Company Ebisu - Another excellent specialty coffee shop in Ebisu, known for its strong latte art and spacious interior. A good alternative if Sarutahiko Coffee is closed or too busy.
📍 東京都渋谷区恵比寿南1-5-5
🛒 Recommended: Trendy fashion items, Japanese stationery, Souvenirs, Gourmet food items (some shops open late)
💡 Insider Tip: Atre Ebisu is a shopping complex directly connected to Ebisu Station. While most shops close around 9 PM, some cafes and restaurants might be open later. It's a convenient spot for last-minute souvenirs or a quick browse of Japanese fashion and lifestyle brands. Check individual store hours as they vary.
🗺️ View on Google MapsThe area around Ebisu Station, especially near Atre Ebisu and the surrounding streets, offers vibrant city nightscapes with neon signs, illuminated buildings, and bustling street life. It captures the essence of a lively Tokyo neighborhood.
📐 Best Angle: From the pedestrian areas around Ebisu Station, looking towards the main street or capturing the illuminated Atre Ebisu building. Experiment with long exposure for light trails from passing cars.
🗺️ View on Google MapsSarutahiko Coffee is very close to Ebisu Station, making it a quick and convenient stop before heading back to your accommodation.
If Sarutahiko Coffee is closed or too busy, Streamer Coffee Company Ebisu is a good alternative. Alternatively, many cafes inside Atre Ebisu might still be open, or you can find a local bar for a relaxing drink.
Sarutahiko Coffee is an indoor venue. The walk back to the hotel is short, and the area around Ebisu Station offers some covered walkways.
Daikanyama → Nakameguro → Ebisu
09:00-12:00
Duration: 3 hours
Enjoy artisan bread and coffee at Crossroad Bakery & Cafe (45min)
Leisurely brunch at Garden House Crafts (1 hour 15min)
Explore Daikanyama T-SITE and surrounding boutiques (1 hour)
💡 From Ebisu Station, take the JR Yamanote Line one stop to Shibuya, then transfer to the Tokyu Toyoko Line for one stop to Daikanyama. Alternatively, a pleasant 15-20 minute walk from Ebisu to Daikanyama.
📍 東京都渋谷区猿楽町16-15 Daikanyama T-SITE GARDEN
Located within the stylish Daikanyama T-SITE complex, this spot offers a relaxed, airy atmosphere perfect for a leisurely brunch. Known for its fresh, seasonal ingredients and a stylish setting, it perfectly fits the trendy and cozy vibe of Daikanyama, making it an ideal choice for a couple's morning.
💡 Insider Tip: Garden House Crafts is known for its delicious pancakes and avocado toast. They often have seasonal specials. The outdoor terrace seating is lovely on a sunny day. It's generally open daily, including Sundays, from 9:00 AM. No specific dietary tips are provided for this venue, but staff can assist with common requests if asked in English.
🔄 Backup:
Ivy Place - Also located within Daikanyama T-SITE, Ivy Place offers a similar upscale, relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu, including Western and Japanese-inspired dishes. It's a great alternative if Garden House Crafts is too crowded, offering a spacious interior and a beautiful outdoor terrace.
📍 東京都渋谷区恵比寿西1-16-15
A cozy and stylish bakery cafe located conveniently between Daikanyama and Ebisu, perfect for a relaxed morning coffee and pastry before or after exploring Daikanyama T-SITE. It fits the trendy and cozy vibe, offering high-quality artisan bread and coffee.
💡 Insider Tip: Try their freshly baked croissants or their popular egg sandwich. It's a great spot for a quick, high-quality breakfast. Open daily, including Sundays. No specific dietary tips are provided for this venue.
🔄 Backup:
Urth Caffé Daikanyama - A popular organic coffee shop with a relaxed atmosphere and a wide selection of drinks and light bites. It's a good alternative for a casual morning coffee.
📍 東京都渋谷区猿楽町17-5
🛒 Recommended: Art books, Japanese magazines, Designer stationery, Unique gifts, Music CDs/Vinyl
💡 Insider Tip: T-SITE is more than just a bookstore; it's a lifestyle complex. Explore the different buildings for unique finds, from vintage cameras to high-end stationery. Tax-free shopping is available at some stores within the complex. Check for special exhibitions. Open daily, usually from 9:00 AM.
🗺️ View on Google MapsThe modern, sleek architecture of Daikanyama T-SITE, designed by Klein Dytham Architecture, is a visual treat. The interconnected buildings with their distinctive 'T' motif facades offer a stylish backdrop.
📐 Best Angle: Capture the 'T' pattern on the building facades from the central courtyard. Also, photograph the lush greenery complementing the modern design. The pathways between the buildings offer great leading lines.
🗺️ View on Google MapsPurchase your Tokyu Toyoko Line ticket/use IC card in advance to save time at the station. Consider walking from Ebisu to Daikanyama if the weather is good to enjoy the neighborhood.
If Daikanyama T-SITE is too crowded, explore the smaller, independent boutiques and cafes along Kyu-Yamate Dori (旧山手通り) for a more relaxed shopping experience.
Daikanyama T-SITE offers plenty of indoor exploration with its bookstores, cafes, and galleries. Alternatively, head to Shibuya Hikarie (渋谷ヒカリエ) for extensive indoor shopping and dining options, accessible via train from Daikanyama.
12:00-14:00
Duration: 2 hours
Enjoy a casual lunch at Hatos Bar (1 hour)
Stroll along the Nakameguro riverside (1 hour)
💡 Nakameguro is just one stop from Daikanyama on the Tokyu Toyoko Line. Hatos Bar is a short walk from Nakameguro Station.
📍 東京都目黒区上目黒1-3-12
A hidden gem in Nakameguro, Hatos Bar offers delicious American comfort food, especially known for its burgers, in a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere. It's a great spot to enjoy a casual lunch away from crowds after a riverside walk, fitting the laid-back vibe of Nakameguro.
💡 Insider Tip: Their classic cheeseburger is a must-try, often paired with craft beer. The interior has a cool, retro vibe. It's generally open daily, including Sundays. No specific dietary tips are provided for this venue, but they can often accommodate simple requests for no meat or specific toppings.
🔄 Backup:
Side Walk Stand - Located right by the Meguro River, Side Walk Stand offers a trendy cafe atmosphere with sandwiches, coffee, and light meals. It's perfect for a quick, casual lunch with a view of the river if Hatos Bar is too busy.
📍 Along Meguro River, from Nakameguro Station to Ikejiri Ohashi
🛒 Recommended: Unique fashion items, Handcrafted accessories, Interior goods, Specialty coffee beans
💡 Insider Tip: Nakameguro is known for its independent boutiques and vintage stores. Many shops are tucked away in side streets or on upper floors. Take your time to browse; you might find unique souvenirs or fashion pieces. Some smaller shops might not offer tax-free shopping.
🗺️ View on Google MapsThe Meguro River is famous for its cherry blossoms in spring, but even in winter, its charming bridges, riverside cafes, and quaint boutiques create a picturesque scene. It's a relaxing spot for a stroll.
📐 Best Angle: From any of the small bridges crossing the river, looking down the waterway. Capture the reflection of the buildings and trees in the water. The unique architecture of the cafes and shops lining the river also makes for great shots.
🗺️ View on Google MapsHave your IC card ready for quick train transfers. Walking along the river is part of the experience, but if time is short, stick to the main street.
If Hatos Bar is too crowded, explore other casual eateries around Nakameguro Station, many of which offer diverse lunch options without long queues.
Many cafes and restaurants along the Meguro River offer cozy indoor seating. You can also head to Shibuya Mark City (渋谷マークシティ) for indoor shopping and dining, which is easily accessible from Nakameguro via the Tokyu Toyoko Line.
14:00-18:00
Duration: 4 hours
Indulge in craft chocolate and coffee at Green Bean To Bar Chocolate (45min)
Relaxing stroll back towards Ebisu, exploring local shops (1 hour 15min)
Early evening relaxation at accommodation or nearby cafe (1 hour)
💡 You can walk from Nakameguro back to Daikanyama (around 10-15 minutes) or take one stop on the Tokyu Toyoko Line. From Daikanyama, it's a pleasant 15-20 minute walk to Ebisu, or one stop on the Tokyu Toyoko Line to Shibuya, then JR Yamanote Line to Ebisu.
📍 東京都目黒区青葉台2-16-11
This unique cafe experience in Daikanyama (technically just across the river in Aobadai, a short walk from Nakameguro/Daikanyama) focuses on bean-to-bar chocolate. It's a cozy spot for a special treat and coffee, perfect for a couple's afternoon break near T-SITE, offering high-quality, artisanal products.
💡 Insider Tip: Their chocolate drinks and artisanal chocolate bars are exceptional. It's a great place to buy unique chocolate souvenirs. They are typically open daily, including Sundays. No specific dietary tips are provided, but their staff can explain ingredients.
🔄 Backup:
代官山 蔦屋書店 Daikanyama Tsutaya Books Cafe - Located within Daikanyama T-SITE, this cafe offers a comfortable and stylish environment to relax with coffee and a book. It's a convenient and pleasant alternative if Green Bean To Bar Chocolate is not suitable.
📍 東京都渋谷区恵比寿南1-5-5
🛒 Recommended: Trendy fashion, Cosmetics, Japanese snacks and sweets, Gourmet food items, Souvenirs
💡 Insider Tip: Atre Ebisu is directly connected to Ebisu Station, making it a convenient stop. The ground floor and basement have excellent food halls (depachika) for gourmet snacks and drinks. Many stores offer tax-free shopping. It's a good spot for last-minute gift shopping. Open daily until 9:00 PM.
🗺️ View on Google MapsThe grand entrance to Ebisu Garden Place, with its wide promenade and European-inspired architecture, offers a sophisticated backdrop. It's a precursor to the beautiful night views to come.
📐 Best Angle: From the top of the 'Sky Walk' escalator or the start of the promenade, capturing the wide-open space and the central chateau-like building (The Westin Tokyo) in the distance.
🗺️ View on Google MapsUtilize the Sky Walk to get to Ebisu Garden Place efficiently. If you're tired, consider heading back to your accommodation for a quick rest before dinner.
If Green Bean To Bar Chocolate is not appealing, explore other cafes in Daikanyama or head directly to Ebisu and find a cafe near Ebisu Garden Place for a break.
Atre Ebisu offers extensive indoor shopping and dining options, directly connected to Ebisu Station. The Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Photography (東京都写真美術館) within Ebisu Garden Place is also a great indoor cultural activity.
18:00-22:00
Duration: 4 hours
Enjoy an atmospheric yakitori dinner at Kushiwakamaru (1 hour 30min)
Experience Ebisu Garden Place night view (45min)
Optional: Post-dinner drink/dessert near Ebisu Garden Place (1 hour)
💡 From Ebisu Station, take JR Yamanote Line one stop to Shibuya, then transfer to Tokyu Toyoko Line for one stop to Nakameguro. After dinner, take the Tokyu Toyoko Line back to Shibuya, then JR Yamanote Line to Ebisu.
📍 東京都目黒区上目黒1-19-8
A highly-regarded, atmospheric izakaya in Nakameguro, fulfilling the 'atmospheric izakaya' wish. It's popular with locals for its excellent yakitori (grilled skewers) and lively but cozy ambiance. While not a 'night view' restaurant, its vibrant local feel and delicious food make it a perfect choice for a memorable dinner, especially for a couple seeking an authentic Japanese dining experience.
💡 Insider Tip: Try a variety of skewers, including their popular chicken meatballs (つくね tsukune) and seasonal vegetables. They have an English menu. It's generally open daily, including Sundays, but hours can vary. No specific dietary tips are provided, but they can often accommodate requests for no pork or specific ingredients if communicated clearly.
🔄 Backup:
かつくら恵比寿 Katsukura Ebisu - Located in Atre Ebisu, this tonkatsu (pork cutlet) restaurant offers a reliable and delicious meal in a comfortable setting. It's a great backup if Kushiwakamaru is too busy or if you prefer not to travel back to Nakameguro for dinner, and it's less likely to have long queues.
📍 東京都渋谷区恵比寿4-20-3
🛒 Recommended: Souvenirs, Small gifts, Convenience store items
💡 Insider Tip: While the main draw here is the view, there are a few shops and convenience stores on the lower floors of the tower. Useful for picking up drinks or snacks. Most shops close by 8-9 PM, but convenience stores are open later.
🗺️ View on Google MapsThe Sky Lounge on the 38th and 39th floors of Ebisu Garden Place Tower offers breathtaking panoramic night views of Tokyo, including Shinjuku skyscrapers and Tokyo Tower. This fulfills the 'Ebisu Garden Place night view' wish perfectly.
📐 Best Angle: From the observation floors, capture the sprawling city lights. Look towards the northeast for Tokyo Tower. Experiment with different zoom levels to capture both wide cityscapes and detailed urban scenes.
🗺️ View on Google MapsMake a reservation for Kushiwakamaru to avoid queues. Use the Sky Walk to quickly get to Ebisu Garden Place after returning from Nakameguro.
If Kushiwakamaru is fully booked, consider Katsukura Ebisu as mentioned, or explore other izakayas around Nakameguro or Ebisu, many of which are popular with locals and offer a similar atmospheric experience.
The observation deck at Ebisu Garden Place Tower is indoors, offering stunning views regardless of weather. For dinner, Katsukura Ebisu is a good indoor option. You can also explore the restaurants within Atre Ebisu or Ebisu Garden Place for sheltered dining.
22:00-23:00
Duration: 1 hour
Late-night drinks and snacks at くじら屋 Kujiraya (1 hour)
💡 Kujiraya is located a short walk from Ebisu Garden Place and Ebisu Station.
📍 東京都渋谷区恵比寿南1-2-12
A lively standing bar/izakaya in Ebisu, offering an authentic local experience. It's a great spot for a casual late-night snack and drinks, fitting the relaxing and local vibe. Perfect for a couple to unwind after a day of exploration and enjoy the vibrant Ebisu nightlife.
💡 Insider Tip: Known for its whale meat dishes (くじら kujira), but also offers a variety of other izakaya staples. Don't be intimidated by the standing bar concept; it's a fun, local experience. They are generally open late, including Sundays. No specific dietary tips are provided, but staff can assist with common requests.
🔄 Backup:
つばめグリル 恵比寿店 Tsubame Grill Ebisu - Located in Ebisu Garden Place, Tsubame Grill offers classic Western-style Japanese comfort food like hamburg steak in a more formal but still relaxed setting. It's a good option for a late-night meal if you prefer a seated restaurant experience.
A vibrant alley filled with small, atmospheric izakayas and bars. While not a single photo spot, the entire alley provides a fantastic glimpse into Tokyo's lively nightlife, with glowing lanterns and bustling activity.
📐 Best Angle: Capture the narrow, bustling alleyway with its neon signs and red lanterns. Focus on the lively interactions between patrons and stall owners. Wide-angle shots work well here.
🗺️ View on Google MapsSince Kujiraya is a standing bar, you can spend as little or as much time as you like. It's a flexible end to the day.
If Kujiraya is too crowded or not to your taste, Ebisu Yokocho (恵比寿横丁) nearby offers numerous small izakayas and bars where you can find a spot for a drink and snack.
Most izakayas in Ebisu are indoors. Ebisu Yokocho is covered, providing shelter while hopping between small eateries.
Ebisu → Daikanyama → Nakameguro → Hiroo
09:00-12:45
Duration: 3 hours 45 minutes
Brunch at M House (1h 30min)
Walk to Daikanyama T-SITE (15min)
Explore Daikanyama T-SITE & area (1 hour)
Walk to Nakameguro Riverside Walk (30min)
Stroll along Nakameguro Riverside (30min)
💡 Easy walk from your accommodation near Ebisu Station.
📍 東京都渋谷区恵比寿南1-17-17
A stylish and popular brunch spot in Ebisu, known for its delicious pancakes and vibrant atmosphere. It's a perfect choice for a relaxed and tasty start to your last day, fitting the 'relaxing itinerary' preference.
💡 Insider Tip: The outdoor terrace seating is highly sought after and lovely on a clear day. M House is generally open on Mondays, but always check their latest hours online. For dietary needs, they typically have vegetarian options for pancakes and salads. Ask staff for 'vegetarian menu' (ベジタリアンメニュー) or 'no meat' (お肉なし).
🔄 Backup:
CAFE GITANE - An elegant New York-style cafe offering a chic atmosphere and a diverse menu, a great alternative for a relaxing brunch in Ebisu.
📍 東京都渋谷区猿楽町17-5
🛒 Recommended: Art books, International magazines, Unique stationery, Designer goods, Gourmet food items
💡 Insider Tip: This complex is a haven for design and culture enthusiasts. Explore the three main buildings connected by a magazine street. There are several small boutiques and cafes within the complex. Look for limited edition items. Tax-free shopping may be available at some stores; inquire at the counter. Best time to visit is morning to avoid afternoon crowds.
🗺️ View on Google MapsThe unique T-shaped architectural design and the surrounding lush greenery make for a stylish and serene backdrop. It's a blend of modern design and natural elements.
📐 Best Angle: Capture the 'T' motif on the building facades, especially from the central pathway. The outdoor seating areas of the cafes also offer great candid shots.
🗺️ View on Google MapsA picturesque canal lined with cherry blossom trees (even in winter, their bare branches offer a unique aesthetic) and charming boutiques and cafes. It's known for its relaxed, bohemian atmosphere.
📐 Best Angle: Walk along the bridge near Nakameguro Station looking down the river, or find a spot along the pedestrian path to capture the river with the quaint shops in the background. In winter, the bare branches create a beautiful, stark silhouette.
🗺️ View on Google MapsStart your day early at M House to secure a table quickly. Walking between Daikanyama and Nakameguro is pleasant and saves transit time.
If M House has a long queue, proceed directly to Daikanyama T-SITE and explore, then head to CAFE GITANE for brunch. If Daikanyama T-SITE is too crowded, explore the smaller, quieter streets around Daikanyama for independent boutiques and cafes.
For M House, it's indoor. For Daikanyama T-SITE, enjoy the extensive indoor bookstore and cafes. For Nakameguro, skip the riverside walk and instead explore the indoor boutiques and cafes lining the streets around Nakameguro Station.
12:45-14:30
Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Transit from Nakameguro to Ebisu (15min)
Lunch at 恵比寿屋 Ebisuya (1 hour)
Walk to Ebisu Garden Place (15min)
Quick visit to Ebisu Garden Place (daytime view) (30min)
💡 One stop on the Hibiya Line, very quick and efficient.
📍 東京都渋谷区恵比寿1-7-12
A cozy, traditional Japanese restaurant in Ebisu offering authentic set meals (teishoku). It provides a local, relaxing dining experience and is a 'hidden gem' that fits your preference for places without long queues.
💡 Insider Tip: Try the '日替わり定食' (higawari teishoku - daily special set meal) for a fresh and seasonal experience. Many traditional Japanese restaurants prefer cash, so have some yen ready. They offer various grilled fish and tempura sets. For dietary needs, ask for 'no fish' (魚なし sakana nashi) or 'no meat' (お肉なし oniku nashi) for vegetarian options, though choices might be limited to vegetable tempura or simple sides.
🔄 Backup:
代官山おぼんでごはん Daikanyama Obon de Gohan - Offers healthy and balanced Japanese set meals in a modern setting, a reliable option for a pleasant lunch experience.
📍 東京都渋谷区恵比寿4-20-7
🛒 Recommended: High-quality Japanese snacks, Gourmet food items (depachika in the basement), Fashion accessories, Cosmetics, Souvenirs
💡 Insider Tip: The basement food hall ('depachika') is a must-visit for gourmet food, bento boxes, and sweets – perfect for picking up gifts or a quick snack. Many items are beautifully packaged. Look for seasonal specialties. Tax-free shopping is available for tourists on purchases over ¥5,000 (excluding some items); bring your passport.
🗺️ View on Google MapsWhile you wished for a night view, the flight schedule makes it difficult. However, the free observation deck on the 38th floor of the Yebisu Garden Place Tower offers fantastic panoramic views of Tokyo during the day, including Shibuya, Shinjuku, and even Mount Fuji on a clear day.
📐 Best Angle: From the observation deck, capture the sprawling cityscape. Look towards the west for potential Mount Fuji views. The glass reflects, so try to get close to the window.
🗺️ View on Google MapsThe spacious central square with its European-inspired architecture, clock tower, and surrounding buildings provides an elegant backdrop for photos.
📐 Best Angle: From the steps leading up to the main square, capturing the entire area with the tower in the background. The brickwork and open space are very photogenic.
🗺️ View on Google MapsThe walk from Ebisu Station to Ebisu Garden Place is mostly via a covered moving walkway (Yebisu Skywalk), making it convenient and fast.
If Ebisuya is unexpectedly closed or has a long wait, proceed to 代官山おぼんでごはん Daikanyama Obon de Gohan. If Ebisu Garden Place is too windy or rainy, focus on exploring the Mitsukoshi Department Store food hall.
Ebisuya is indoors. For Ebisu Garden Place, the Tower Observation Deck is indoors, and you can explore Mitsukoshi Department Store's indoor facilities.
14:30-16:00
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Walk to レ・グラン・ザルブル Les Grands Arbres (15min)
Cafe experience at レ・グラン・ザルブル Les Grands Arbres (1 hour)
💡 A pleasant walk through the quiet streets between Ebisu and Hiroo.
📍 東京都港区南麻布5-15-11
A unique and charming treehouse-themed cafe near Hiroo/Ebisu, offering a whimsical and relaxing atmosphere. It's perfect for a memorable last coffee break before heading to the airport, fitting your 'cafe' wish list.
💡 Insider Tip: The cafe is located on the 3rd floor, above a beautiful flower shop (Fleur Universelle) on the ground floor. The treehouse element is more conceptual, but the cafe's design is very natural and inviting. They offer a selection of herbal teas and healthy sweets. Les Grands Arbres is typically open on Mondays. For vegetarian options, most sweets and drinks are suitable; ask for 'no gelatin' (ゼラチンなし zerachin nashi) if you have concerns.
🔄 Backup:
Verde Ebisu - A cozy cafe in Ebisu known for its relaxed atmosphere and good coffee, a reliable alternative if Les Grands Arbres is too busy.
📍 東京都港区南麻布5-15-11
🛒 Recommended: Beautifully arranged fresh flowers, Small potted plants, Unique floral gifts, Aromatherapy items
💡 Insider Tip: Even if you're not buying flowers, the shop itself is a visual treat and a lovely place to browse before or after your cafe visit. It perfectly complements the natural theme of the cafe above. They often have small, unique gifts that make for thoughtful souvenirs.
🗺️ View on Google MapsThe cafe's interior is filled with natural light, wooden elements, and lush greenery, creating a serene and photogenic environment. The 'treehouse' concept is beautifully executed through its design.
📐 Best Angle: Capture the cozy seating areas, the natural light streaming through the windows, and the unique decor. The staircase leading up to the cafe also offers a nice perspective.
🗺️ View on Google MapsThe walk from Ebisu Garden Place to Les Grands Arbres is straightforward and scenic, minimizing reliance on public transport for this short distance.
If Les Grands Arbres is closed or too busy, head back towards Ebisu Station and visit Verde Ebisu for your coffee break. Alternatively, explore other cafes around Ebisu Station.
The cafe is indoors, so it's a perfect rain-friendly activity. The flower shop below is also indoors.
16:00-16:30
Duration: 30 minutes (preparation before N'EX departure)
Walk back to Ebisu Station (10min)
Collect luggage from hotel (if stored) (10min)
Transit to Shibuya Station (JR Yamanote Line) (5min)
Board Narita Express (N'EX) to NRT (check in by 16:30)
💡 Take the JR Yamanote Line from Ebisu to Shibuya (1 stop, ~3 min). From Shibuya Station, board the Narita Express (N'EX) directly to Narita Airport Terminal 1 or 2/3. Ensure you purchase N'EX tickets in advance or upon arrival at Shibuya. N'EX is comfortable with ample luggage space. You need to be at NRT by 18:00 for your 20:00 flight, so aim to depart Shibuya around 16:00-16:30 latest.
Have your luggage ready to go. Pre-purchase N'EX tickets if possible to save time at the station.
If N'EX is delayed or full, consider the Limousine Bus service from major hotels or bus terminals in Shibuya/Ebisu (check schedules in advance). Alternatively, take the JR Yamanote Line to Tokyo Station and transfer to the Narita Express or Keisei Skyliner (via Ueno).
Public transport to the airport is unaffected by rain. Ensure you have an umbrella for the short walks to/from stations.