If you’re craving nature that’s a bit wilder than the manicured greenery of Tokyo’s parks and gardens, the Institute for Nature Study in Meguro is just the thing for you.
It’s a huge nature reserve within the city run by Japan’s National Museum of Nature and Science. The Centre’s focus is on researching, preserving and educating people about Tokyo’s natural environment.
Set in a valley, the reserve features walking trails through untamed nature that includes forest, waterways and marshlands. It’s a fully-functioning ecosystem, with an abundance of bird and insect life throughout. The busy streets seem a world away the further you get into the valley.
Visitor numbers are controlled to preserve the delicate environment so you are guaranteed a crowd-free stroll.
There is limited English signage of the plants. However there is a mini-museum by the ticket gate showcasing the wildlife that lives in the park.
Address: 5-21-5, Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Getting there: 10 minute walk from Meguro Station (JR Yamanote Line, Tokyo Metro Namboku Line, Toei Mita Line and Tokyu Meguro Line)
Nearby: Locale
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