There is Healing in the Office District! 9 Tourist Spots in Gotanda

Did you know that Gotanda Station in Shinagawa Ward is a very convenient place for sightseeing? It is served by three train lines: JR Yamanote Line, Toei Asakusa Line, and Tokyu Ikegami Line, making it just a few stations away from central areas like Ebisu, Shibuya, Harajuku, and Shinjuku. Additionally, the Toei Asakusa Line provides direct access to popular tourist spots such as Ginza, Asakusa, and Skytree. Furthermore, from the nearby Osaki Station, you can easily access attractions like Odaiba and Disneyland via the Rinkai Line! With Shinagawa Station and Haneda Airport also close by, there are many hotels, making it increasingly popular among foreign tourists.
Due to the abundance of offices, there are many gourmet spots for lunch and drinks. From the bustling Meguro River, which attracts many tourists in spring, to hidden healing spots, we’ll introduce you to the charms of Gotanda!

1. Meguro River

Flowing from Gotanda Station towards Meguro and Osaki, the Meguro River is stunning in spring when cherry blossoms bloom along its banks, attracting the largest crowds of the year. As the cherry blossoms reach full bloom, Meguro Station becomes crowded, so strolling from Gotanda Station towards Meguro Station can be a good option. Along the river, you can find famous spots featured on TV and in magazines, like "Meat Yazawa," along with various bars, allowing you to enjoy delicious food after cherry blossom viewing.
But spring isn’t the only time to visit! From late November to late December, the area from Gotanda to Osaki is transformed into a sea of pink! This is thanks to the "Meguro River Everyone's Illumination," which recreates cherry blossoms with pink-themed lights along the river. Held annually, this event enhances the Christmas season! Be sure to take a stroll while on a date or during your sightseeing.

2. Gotanda Tokyu Square

This shopping center is directly connected to Gotanda Station. It caters to various needs with fashion, goods, the bookstore "Book First," the 100 yen shop "Can Do," Muji, "Mini Pla," and a Tokyu Store in the basement. Not only does it support local residents, but it is also a convenient building used by many due to its location as a transfer station.
The top floor features a restaurant floor, including the popular "Yasaiya Mei," known from Omotesando Hills and Roppongi Hills, making it a hidden gem. Other floors have cafes like Starbucks, providing a nice break during your sightseeing. Additionally, there are nail salons and body care and facial salons, so feel free to use it as a healing spot during your visit.

3. Gate City Osaki

Adjacent to Gotanda Station, this large complex is directly connected to the south ticket gate of Osaki Station. It is about 1 km from Gotanda, which takes around 15 minutes to walk. There are two office buildings with floors from the 3rd to the 24th, and from the basement to the 3rd floor, there are restaurants and shops.
Despite being an office building, the center features a five-story atrium that is very open and airy! One side of the first floor is made up of glass windows, allowing vibrant greenery and colorful flowers to catch your eye, creating a soothing space even in a busy building. This building is well-maintained and very comfortable to visit at any time.
The outdoor area has a square with a fountain that exudes a European atmosphere, along with terrace seating, making it a relaxing spot. Since it houses offices, it gets particularly crowded during lunch hours, and you'll find various affordable bento options in front of each restaurant. Buying a bento and enjoying lunch while looking at the greenery is a great idea while sightseeing.

4. Ikedayama Park

Many people may have the image of Gotanda as an office area with many bars. However, there is a power spot called "Ikedayama Park" in Gotanda. It is said that, according to feng shui, energy flows from Mount Fuji to the Imperial Palace through this area.
Although it is a park, it originally was a residence, giving it a tranquil garden-like atmosphere. The park has varying elevations, with a rest area overlooking a pond within the grounds. In spring, the cherry blossoms are stunning, and in autumn, the foliage is beautiful, making it a recommended sightseeing spot. During the fresh green season, it is also very pleasant and quiet, making you forget that you are in Gotanda. It is about a 15-minute walk from Gotanda, so feel free to extend your sightseeing and take in the good energy.

5. Gotanda Fureai Waterfront Square

Walking along the Meguro River from Gotanda Station toward Osaki, you will find a lush green relaxation spot in Gotanda. Just a step inside from the bustle of Sakurada Street, it is a quiet and soothing place. Surrounded by tower apartments, you can also see children playing on the promenade during the day.
The striking glass building visible from the train is the gallery "Sakuraterasu Gotanda," located in this square. It is a venue for various events, and next to it is the Italian restaurant "EL TRES." During lunchtime, the terrace seating is lively with people enjoying their bento. In spring, the overwhelming cherry blossoms along the Meguro River are beautifully illuminated, making it a recommended place to relax while sightseeing during this season.

6. TOC Building

Sometimes you can see a line of people waiting for a bus at Gotanda Station. This is the line for the shuttle bus to the complex known as "Gotanda TOC," which is about a 10-minute walk away. Many people visit for family sales and the Tokunomichi market held three times a year.
"TOC" stands for Tokyo Wholesale Center, and as the name suggests, it was originally a facility for wholesalers. There are many shops selling clothing, goods, and cosmetics at wholesale prices.
Additionally, large stores like "Uniqlo" and "Akachan Honpo" offer a wide selection in the city. You can also find places like "Yuzawaya" and "ABC-MART Outlet," which attract many fans beyond the locals. The underground area has numerous dining options, with some places offering meals for just a coin. Be sure to stop by for some shopping during your sightseeing!

7. Osaki New City

This complex is directly connected to the north ticket gate of Osaki Station via a pedestrian bridge. It is frequented by locals as well as office workers, similar to Gate City, making it a busy facility. It includes a supermarket "LIFE," a 100 yen shop "Daiso," nail salons, relaxation spots, and photo studios, ensuring you’ll find what you need while sightseeing.
Nearby, you’ll find hotels like "New Otani Inn Tokyo" and "Daiwa Roynet Hotel Tokyo Osaki," popular for business travelers and tourists. Recently, a bus terminal was established at the west exit of Osaki Station, providing convenient access for sightseeing buses and overnight highway buses to Kansai and Tohoku. The number of foreign tourists is also increasing, with foreign language POP displays and announcements at "Matsukiyo." The outdoor fountain and green plaza are recommended as relaxing spots while sightseeing.

8. Tokyo Design Center

Just a short distance from Gotanda Station, this stylish building stands out. It was designed by the famous Italian architect "Mario Bellini," known for creating furniture design brands like Cassina. The central staircase area features an atrium, and as you pass through, you can see a striking horse sculpture at the top of the stairs!
The building houses furniture showrooms and design books, making it especially recommended for those interested in interior design. There’s also an Italian restaurant and free spaces within the building, making it a great stop for meals or a break during sightseeing, and simply exploring the building is worthwhile.

9. Nemunoki Garden

About a 7-minute walk from Gotanda Station is a park called "Nemunoki Garden." It is located on the site of the former residence of Her Majesty the Empress and is a rare and precious relaxation spot known by a select few in the Gotanda area!
In the center, you’ll find Nemunoki trees, flower beds, and roses called "Princess Michiko." The best access is via the cobblestone slope next to Gotanda Park. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom, providing a wonderfully picturesque view. Be sure to stop by for a break while sightseeing!

Summary

Gotanda has a bustling image with many offices and bars, but surprisingly, there are many relaxing sightseeing spots where you can enjoy nature. Many might discover such places exist in Gotanda! Additionally, if you venture a little further, the Meguro and Osaki areas are nearby, making it convenient for sightseeing and an attractive base for visitors. Since it’s also a competitive area for bars and ramen shops, be sure to take advantage of it for gourmet sightseeing!