Meguro City is not short on public spaces and for visitors with kids, Himonya Park may be just the thing. Featuring a petting zoo, pony rides, a playground and boat rides in its enclosed pond, the park's sakura cherry blossoms make for a lovely sight during the spring season.
Once an area of irrigation and paddy fields, the lake at the centre of Himonya Park was then known as Mitani Pond and, as befits the times, was much larger than it is now. Long removed from its agricultural history, the area was established as a public park in 1932 and opened to the residents the following year. Himonya Park is now an area of relaxation and family-centred fun.
Himonya Park is separated up into two areas. The southern area features the pond, a small shrine, free petting zoo and a children's playground. The pond offers 30-minute boat rides at ￥200 per boat while the petting zoo is a great little place for the kids to get up close with rabbits, guinea pig and the like.
The northern area is home to six tennis courts and a baseball field. At the southern end of this area lies the pony ride zone. A steal at ￥200, staff are on hand to make sure everyone is safe and enjoying themselves.
Do note that the petting zoo is open from 10:00 - 11:30 and then again from 13:30 - 15:30, Tuesday to Sunday. Pony rides are available between 10:00 - 11:30 and 13:30 - 15:00 while boat rides are available between 10:00 - 16:00.
