Introduction
In Japan, shrines (jinja) and temples (tera) serve as cornerstones of cultural and spiritual life, yet they represent two distinct traditions. Shrines are the heart of Shinto, Japan’s indigenous religion, dedicated to kami—spiritual deities associated with nature, prosperity, and human endeavors. Shrines are often visited to pray for blessings, celebrate seasonal festivals, and mark life’s milestones, such as weddings and New Year’s Day.
In contrast, temples are Buddhist sanctuaries where people meditate, honor ancestors, and seek enlightenment. Temples are typically home to Buddhist statues and pagodas, while shrines are characterized by torii gates and purification fountains. For visitors, understanding this distinction enriches the experience, allowing a deeper appreciation of Japan’s harmonious coexistence of Shinto and Buddhism.
Tokyo offers an abundance of both shrines and temples, each with unique historical and cultural significance. Let’s explore some of the city’s most captivating shrines, where you can immerse yourself in Japanese tradition and spirituality.
No1. Kanda Myojin (Founded 730)
Kanda Myojin offers foreign visitors a unique blend of Japanese cultural traditions and modern influences. Founded over 1,270 years ago, Kanda Myojin has long been a protector of Tokyo’s people and their prosperity. It enshrines three deities: Daikokuten (god of wealth and fortune), Ebisu (god of business and fishermen), and Taira no Masakado (a local samurai hero).
The shrine is a symbol of cultural resilience, blending ancient Shinto practices with a contemporary touch that reflects Tokyo’s dynamic spirit.
Kanda Myojin is not only a place to learn about traditional rituals like purification and making offerings, but it also caters to modern interests. Its ema (wooden prayer plaques) often feature anime art due to its proximity to Akihabara, making it popular among tech and pop culture enthusiasts. The annual Kanda Matsuri, one of Tokyo’s grandest festivals, showcases dazzling parades and mikoshi (portable shrines), providing visitors with a lively cultural experience. Kanda Myojin is a fascinating destination for exploring Japan’s traditions, bridging the past and present in a way that’s both culturally enriching and uniquely Tokyo.
I always visit here in the early year known as Hatsumode to pray for being successful in my work and business. This is not only me but also many business people come there to wish for prospering their business at the same time. If you’re doing your own business or you think to go very well in your work. You absolutely stop by and wish for your dream or goal.
The most specific feature of Kanda Myojin is its unique connection to both traditional Shinto practices and modern pop culture. While Kanda Myojin has been a spiritual center for over 1,270 years, its proximity to Akihabara, Tokyo’s hub of anime and technology, has influenced the shrine’s modern identity. This blending of ancient traditions with contemporary culture makes it a standout destination.One of the shrine’s highlights is its ema (wooden prayer plaques), which often feature illustrations of anime characters alongside traditional designs. These ema allow visitors to leave their prayers and wishes in a distinctly modern way, appealing to fans of Japanese pop culture. Additionally, the shrine hosts blessings for technology, where visitors bring their electronic devices for protection—a unique practice that reflects its modern relevance.
Kanda Myojin’s ability to seamlessly integrate traditional spirituality with modern culture makes it an extraordinary and memorable destination for visitors seeking to experience the diverse facets of Japan.
Access
Location: Chiyoda ward
Access and Address: 16-2, Sotokanda 2-chome, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0021, Japan
More Detailed Information
☛ Hotel Info:
If you’re looking for a high-end Japanese hotel around Tokyo station(roughly 11 minutes by train and walking from there), please check here. If you want a foreign luxury hotel, go to this page.
No2. Hie Shrine (Founded 1478)
Hie Shrine is a tranquil and culturally significant Shinto shrine located in Akasaak Tokyo, offering visitors a peaceful retreat and a chance to experience authentic Japanese traditions.Dating back to the 15th century, Hie Shrine has long been a place of spiritual significance, originally built to protect Edo Castle. It is dedicated to Oyamakui-no-Kami, the guardian deity of the land, and remains a symbol of resilience and community in Tokyo’s urban landscape. Its central location makes it easily accessible, yet it retains a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for cultural exploration. Hie Shrine is particularly famous for its vivid red torii gate pathway, which forms a photogenic tunnel leading to the inner shrine—a must-see for visitors. Additionally, the shrine is the host of the grand Sanno Matsuri, one of Tokyo’s three major Shinto festivals. This vibrant event features parades, traditional music, and portable shrines (mikoshi), offering a dynamic glimpse into Japan’s festive traditions. Hie Shrine provides a perfect balance of tranquility and cultural richness, making it an unmissable destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Japan’s spiritual and historical heritage.
The most specific feature of Hie Shrine is its iconic red torii gate pathway, creating a striking and serene approach to the shrine. Unlike other urban shrines in Tokyo, Hie Shrine is distinguished by this stunning tunnel of torii gates, which offers visitors a photogenic and peaceful journey as they ascend to the inner shrine. The pathway serves as both a spiritual and visual highlight, symbolizing the transition into a sacred space. Visitors often compare this torii pathway to the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, but Hie Shrine’s version is more intimate and centrally located in Tokyo. Walking through the gates provides not only a great photo opportunity but also a moment of reflection and connection to Japanese culture. Hie Shrine’s red torii gate pathway is a defining feature that combines beauty, symbolism, and accessibility, making it a standout experience for visitors exploring Tokyo’s spiritual landmarks.
Access
Location: Chiyoda ward
Access and Address: 10-5, Nagatacho 2-chome, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0014, Japan
More Detailed Information
☛ Hotel Info:
If you’re looking for the boutique hotels near Roppongi (14 minutes from the station by train and walk),
please check here. If you want a luxury hotel, go to this link.
No3. Tomkioka Hachiman Shrine (Founded 1627)
Tomioka Hachiman Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine in Koto ward Tokyo that offers foreign visitors a fascinating glimpse into Japanese culture, history, and traditions.This shrine is dedicated to Hachiman, the god of warriors, and has been a central part of Tokyo’s spiritual and cultural life since the Edo period. Known as the birthplace of professional sumo wrestling and home to one of the city’s largest portable shrines (mikoshi), Tomioka Hachiman beautifully blends its historical significance with vibrant traditions. The shrine’s highlights include its Sumo Museum, showcasing the rich history of Japan’s national sport, and the magnificent gold-adorned mikoshi, considered one of the heaviest and most elaborate in Japan. The annual Fukagawa Hachiman Matsuri, featuring lively water-splashing parades, is a unique experience that immerses visitors in Japanese festival culture. Tomioka Hachiman Shrine is an exceptional destination for experiencing the historical depth and vibrant traditions of Japanese culture, making it a must-visit for those exploring Tokyo.
The most specific feature of Tomioka Hachiman Shrine is its deep connection to sumo wrestling, particularly as the birthplace of professional sumo in Tokyo.Tomioka Hachiman Shrine holds a special place in sumo history, as it was here that the first official sumo match was held in 1684. This makes the shrine a significant cultural landmark for anyone interested in Japan’s national sport.The shrine houses a Sumo Museum, where visitors can explore the history of sumo, view relics of famous wrestlers, and learn about the sport’s role in Japanese tradition. Additionally, the shrine hosts special sumo-related events and rituals, further emphasizing its strong connection to this cultural practice.Tomioka Hachiman Shrine’s unique association with sumo wrestling makes it a distinctive and culturally rich destination for those eager to explore one of Japan’s most cherished traditions.
Access
Location: Koto ward
Access and Address: 1-20-3 Tomioka, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0047, Japan
More Detailed Information
☛ Hotel Info:
If you’re looking for a high-end Japanese hotel around Tokyo station (roughly 12 minutes by train and walk from there), please check here. If you want a foreign luxury hotel, go to this page.
No4. Yasukuni Shrine (Founded 1869)
Yasukuni Shrine is a significant and historically charged Shinto shrine in Tokyo, offering foreign visitors a deep insight into Japan’s cultural and military history. Yasukuni Shrine enshrines the spirits of those who died in service to Japan, particularly in wars and conflicts, starting from the Boshin War of the 19th century. It plays a central role in Japan’s national identity and remembrance, making it an important destination for those interested in the country’s modern history and its approach to honoring the past. A visit to Yasukuni Shrine reveals a blend of solemnity and tradition. The Yushukan Museum, located on the shrine grounds, offers exhibits on Japan’s military history and the lives of those enshrined there. The shrine is also known for its annual Mid-August ceremonies, where the spirits of the fallen are honored with rituals and prayers. Yasukuni Shrine offers a powerful and thought-provoking experience for those looking to understand Japan’s reflections on history, remembrance, and the complex layers of its cultural identity.
The most specific feature of Yasukuni Shrine is its role as a memorial to Japan’s war dead, enshrining over 2.5 million souls from various conflicts throughout Japan’s modern history. Yasukuni Shrine serves as a powerful symbol of Japan’s remembrance and reverence for those who sacrificed their lives for the country. It is unique in its focus on honoring the spirits of soldiers, which makes it a place of national reflection and emotional significance.
The Yushukan Museum on the shrine grounds offers detailed exhibits about the history of the enshrined individuals, with artifacts and narratives from Japan’s wars, including the Boshin War, Sino-Japanese War, and World War II. Additionally, the shrine’s annual Obon ceremonies in mid-August provide a solemn opportunity for visitors to witness rituals dedicated to the spirits of the fallen. Yasukuni Shrine’s memorial nature and its deep connection to Japan’s military history make it a unique and profound destination for those interested in the country’s approach to honoring its past.
Please have respect as meaningful places for Japanese. Many executives like politicians or business people etc visit there to show respect and application for Japanese soldiers.
Access
Location: Koto ward
Access and Address: 1-20-3 Tomioka, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0047, Japan
More Detailed Information
☛ Hotel Info:
If you’re looking for a high-end Japanese hotel around Tokyo station (roughly 12minutes by train and walk from there), please check here.If you want a foreign luxury hotel, go this page.
No5. Nezu Shrine (Founded 1705)
Nezu Shrine, one of Tokyo’s oldest sacred sites with over 1,900 years of history, offers visitors a serene escape into Japan’s cultural and spiritual traditions. Known for its vibrant Gongen-zukuri architecture, red torii gates, and breathtaking Azalea Festival each spring, the shrine combines natural beauty with deep cultural significance. It’s an ideal spot for foreign visitors to experience Shinto rituals, seasonal celebrations, and a tranquil connection to Japan’s rich heritage.
Nezu Shrine’s most iconic feature for sightseeing is its vivid torii gate pathway, a series of vermilion gates leading to smaller auxiliary shrines, offering a photogenic and serene experience reminiscent of Kyoto’s famous Fushimi Inari Shrine. Additionally, the shrine’s Azalea Garden, which blooms spectacularly during the annual Azalea Festival (Tsutsuji Matsuri) in spring, is a breathtaking highlight. With over 3,000 azalea plants in vivid pink, red, and white, the garden transforms the shrine into a floral wonderland, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers. These features make Nezu Shrine a unique and unforgettable sightseeing spot in Tokyo.
Access
Location: Bunkyo ward
Access and Address: 1-28-9, Nezu 1-chome, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0031, Japan
☛ Hotel Info:
If you’re looking for a high-end Japanese hotel around Tokyo station(roughly 25 minutes by train and walk from there), please check here.If you want a foreign luxury hotel, go to this page.
Visiting these shrines is more than sightseeing; it’s an opportunity to engage with Japanese customs and spirituality. Participate in rituals such as purifying your hands and mouth at a shrine’s water basin, making offerings at the main hall, and ringing the bell to pray.
At sites like Senso-ji and Asakusa Shrine, you can observe the blending of Shinto and Buddhism—a hallmark of Japanese spirituality. This coexistence is evident in practices such as celebrating Shinto blessings for health at shrines while offering prayers for ancestors at temples. Seasonal festivals, such as the Sanja Matsuri in Asakusa or the Azalea Festival at Nezu Shrine, bring these sacred spaces to life, blending modern celebrations with ancient practices.
For a modern twist, Kanda Shrine charms tech enthusiasts with anime-themed ema, while Suitengu Shrine specializes in blessings for family and childbirth. These varied experiences show how deeply shrines and temples are woven into Japanese culture.
Conclusion
Exploring Tokyo’s shrines reveals a timeless world where Shinto and Buddhism harmoniously coexist. Whether you’re seeking tranquility, cultural insight, or an unforgettable festival experience, these sacred spaces offer something for every visitor. Shrines invite you to connect with nature and the divine, while temples encourage reflection and mindfulness. Together, they create a rich cultural tapestry that defines Japan’s identity. Ready to embark on your spiritual journey in Tokyo? Let these sacred sites guide you to the heart of Japan’s culture and traditions.
Lastly, since we introduce the excellent hotels around, Shinjuku (the biggest station in Tokyo), Shibuya (the famous downtown and business district), and Asakusa (famous traditional sightseeing spots in Tokyo) etc, if you have an interest in those areas please click on these links and take into account them.
Thank you for reading at the end, and we hope your trip will be excellent and this page is useful.
The Wonderful Travel Tips
Yuichi Yokoyama
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