Takashimaya Rooftop Garden: Take a load off in an unexpected green space

The Takashimaya complex in Futako Tamagawa stretches over two blocks. With six above-ground levels of shopping and a sprawling underground food floor, the shopping center is a focal point for the landscape, perched on the Tama River at the edge of Setagaya ward. The mall offers a dazzling array of luxury shopping, from Prada to Issey Miyake. 

On the top of the mall sits the oft-overlooked rooftop garden. Trees, flowers and shrubbery abound, wound through with footpaths and dotted with cute sculptures at surprise intervals. Benches and picnic tables are scattered throughout, and a few discreet drink machines stand in a corner, near the tiny shrine to Inari on one edge of the building. 

From here, you can see the glittering ribbon of the Tama River below, delineating Tokyo from Kanagawa. A few cafés are accessible from the garden, sometimes hosting live music -- like the string quartet that was playing when we were there. Café patronage is not required, however, to enjoy a leisurely afternoon with a book or just people watching. We recommend ducking down to the Paul bakery in the basement to grab a sesame flute or pain au fromage with a bottle of wine, for an impromptu picnic. 

Address: 3-17-1 Tamagawa, Setagaya-ku

Website URL: http://www.takashimaya.co.jp/tamagawa/

Telephone: +81 (0)3 3709-3111

Hours of Operation: 10am-8pm