The Best Dog-Friendly Areas in Tokyo – A Guide for Dog Owners 

Photo by tanakawhoTokyo is a bustling metropolis, and it can be a bit of a challenge for dog owners to find suitable places to let their dogs roam freely. However, there are plenty of neighborhoods and areas near dog-friendly parks where both you and your furry companion can enjoy a peaceful day out.

Whether you live in Tokyo or are just visiting with your dog, here are some areas well-known for their proximity to great parks and open spaces where dogs are welcome to run and socialize.  

Shibuya ward: Yoyogi Park and Surroundings

Photo by wombatarama

Shibuya is one of Tokyo’s most famous districts, known for its vibrant atmosphere and trendy shops. But if you’re a dog owner, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s also home to one of the city’s most popular dog-friendly parks – Yoyogi Park! 

Yoyogi Park is massive and offers plenty of wide open spaces for walks.  Yoyogi Park’s dog-run area allows dogs to play off-leash, making it a great destination for a day out.  

The park is also conveniently located near several dog-friendly cafes and pet shops, so you can easily enjoy a meal or shop for pet supplies after a stroll.  

Nearby, you’ll find Harajuku, a trendy neighborhood where many cafes welcome dogs.  

If you’re looking for a central location with plenty of activities for both you and your pet, Shibuya ward is an excellent option. 

Setagaya ward: Kinuta Park and Neighboring Areas

Setagaya is a peaceful residential area in Tokyo that provides a more relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for dog owners.  

Photo byshuzo serikawa

Kinuta Park – situated in this neighborhood- is a spacious park with large grassy areas perfect for long walks or leisurely afternoons with your dog. 

The park is not only dog-friendly but also features a designated dog run, where your dog can socialize and play with other dogs. 

Kichijoji: Inokashira Park

Known for its charming atmosphere, Kichijoji is a popular residential area located just outside of central Tokyo. 

Photo by sekihan

One of Kichijoji’s main attractions is Inokashira Park– a spacious park that offers beautiful walking paths around a large pond.  It is a well-loved destination for dog owners, with plenty of green space to walk your dog or relax.  

Kichijoji is also filled with dog-friendly cafes and restaurants, so you can take a break and enjoy a meal with your pet. Additionally, there are several dog grooming salons and pet stores nearby, making it a great area to meet other dog owners and stock up on supplies.

Setagaya and Meguro ward: Komazawa Olympic Park 

For dog owners living in or visiting a Setagaya or Meguro neighborhood, Komazawa Olympic Park is a gem. Komazawa Olympic Park is so large, that it is located in both Setagaya and Meguro wards! 

Photo by no_typographic_man

This park- built for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics– is home to wide-open spaces and paths perfect for walking your dog. The park also has a designated dog run, where your dog can enjoy some off-leash time and meet other dogs in a controlled environment.  

Minato ward: Akasaka and Arisugawa-no-miya Memorial Park 

Located in central Tokyo, Minato is a bustling area that offers a mix of modern business spaces and residential neighborhoods.  

Photo by jpgellen

One of the best spots for dog owners in Minato is Arisugawa-no-miya Memorial Park (“Arisugawa Park”, for short), a peaceful green space perfect for a quiet walk with your dog. The park also features shaded paths and a lovely pond, offering a tranquil escape in the heart of the city.  

Tama: Sakuragaoka Park 

Walking your dog at Sakuragaoka Park is a delightful experience for both you and your furry friend. The park offers a serene environment with well-maintained paths, lush greenery, and ample open spaces, where dogs can enjoy a leisurely stroll.  

Photo by デバmommy

It’s a popular spot among local dog owners, providing a great opportunity for socializing with other pets and their owners. The park’s peaceful ambiance, combined with its beautiful seasonal flowers and shaded areas, makes it an ideal location for a relaxing walk.  

Remember to keep your dog on a leash unless in the dog run area, and clean up after them to maintain the park’s cleanliness and harmony! 

Outside of 23 wards: Showa Memorial Park and the Suburbs 

For those seeking a more expansive, nature-filled experience, the Tachikawa area in west Tokyo offers plenty of dog-friendly options.  

Photo by lioil

Showa Memorial Park is a large, well-maintained park that is perfect for dog owners who want a serene and natural environment. The park includes designated dog zones where your pet can run free, as well as extensive walking trails for a long, scenic stroll. 

Tachikawa is more suburban than central Tokyo, so it offers less crowded and more spacious areas for dogs to roam around. The park’s natural surroundings also make it a wonderful spot for those who want to enjoy a peaceful day outdoors with their pets, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

Urban Dog Walking: Ikebukuro and Sunshine City Area 

For a more urban dog-friendly experience, Ikebukuro in Toshima Ward offers a number of dog-friendly parks and facilities. 

Photo by Jnlin

While not as large as some other parks, Ikebukuro Nishiguchi Park is a great place for quick walks with your dog. It’s a popular spot for dog owners, with a welcoming vibe and lots of nearby amenities.  

Just a short walk from the park, you’ll find Sunshine City, a large complex with shopping, dining, and pet stores. The area is home to several dog-friendly cafes and shops, making it an ideal destination for pet owners who want to enjoy the city life while still catering to their dog’s needs. 

You and your dog will be just fine in Tokyo! 

Photo by Jeff Laitila

Tokyo is widely recognized for its fast-paced lifestyle, but it also- surprisingly- offers welcoming environments for dog owners. The city boasts numerous dog-friendly parks and neighborhoods to explore. 

Central wards such as Shibuya and Minato provide vibrant settings, while quieter suburban spaces like Setagaya and Tama- all the way to Tachikawa- offer more peaceful atmospheres. These locations are perfect for dog owners to enjoy walks, socialize, and relax with their pets.  

If you’re a dog lover in Tokyo, all of the above areas are excellent choices for bonding with your furry companion! 

Planning on moving to Tokyo and have a big dog?  Contact us, because big dogs are not so easy to find housing for!  We’d be happy to suport your move.