Ebisu / Daikanyama

Quieter upscale areas with boutiques, brunch spots, and design shops. Safe and relaxed. More expensive than other neighborhoods but less chaotic.

Ebisu and Daikanyama are the more grown-up neighborhoods - small boutiques instead of big malls, independent restaurants instead of chains, quiet tree-lined streets instead of neon. Ebisu centers on the station and Ebisu Garden Place. Daikanyama feels like a village with bookstores, design shops, and brunch cafes. Both pull in wealthier locals and expats. It's one stop from Shibuya but completely different atmosphere. Good for slow brunches, coffee, nice dinners - if you like taking your time instead of rushing around tourist sites. Safe with well-lit streets and calm vibe at night. More English than local areas because expats live here. Pricier than average Tokyo but not as expensive as Ginza. Meguro River nearby looks good during cherry blossoms.