Shoto district 松濤
The Beverly Hills of Japan
The crowd is dense, the lights bright, the noise incessant: Shibuya, the vibrant heart of Tokyo, can make you dizzy at times. A few strides away, discover the Shoto district.
In the Shoto district , small shops have replaced malls, people stroll, linger in western-style cafes and restaurants. Calm reigns, the atmosphere is peaceful. Tree-lined alleys, large gardens concealing imposing properties belonging to politicians, celebrities or large Japanese families, have earned the Shoto district the nickname "Beverly Hills of Japan".
An oasis in the heart of the capital
It is good to walk there to catch your breath, calm down, stop the surge of images and sounds that assail passers-by in the Shibuya next door. You can even forget everything about the city in Nabeshima Shoto Park, which was built at the end of the 19th century in place of a former tea plantation. Its water mill and its pond, its cherry blossoms in spring or its autumn foliage give it a bucolic atmosphere and invite to rest.
Around the alleys, restaurants cafes and wine bars from all over the world bring a cosmopolitan touch to this residential area , also famous for its gastronomy.
Along the way, behind the park, is the Shoto Museum of Art, just like the neighborhood: quiet and restful. You can admire temporary exhibitions of all kinds, from painting to sculpture, including crafts and photography.
After this quiet little tour, perhaps you will be ready to return to the hustle and bustle of the capital?
Address, timetable & access
Address
Timetable
The district and the museum: - 5 minutes from the north exit of Shinsen lagoon, on the KeioInokashira line - About 15 minutes from JR Shibuya station. Go to the Don Quijote store then turn left towards Bunkamura-Dori. In a few minutes, you will arrive in the neighborhood.Price
Shoto Museum of Art: ¥ 1,000 Prices vary depending on the exhibition.Access
Shoto Museum of Art: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closing days vary depending on the exhibitions Closed from December 29 to January 3Website
http://www.shoto-museum.jp/en/
