Most Popular Temples and Shrines in Tokyo

Tokyo’s oldest temple, Senso-ji in Asakusa is famous for its impressive Kaminarimon Gate and the beautiful Nakamise shopping street. The huge red main hall and giant lanterns make it one of the capital’s most photographed sights.

Address: 2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo, 111-00321

Located near Tokyo Tower, Zojo-ji was once the family temple of the powerful Tokugawa shoguns. Its massive main gate (Sangedatsumon) and beautiful grounds create a striking contrast with the modern skyline.

Address: 4-7-３５ Shibakoen, Minato, Tokyo 105-0011

Set in a forest of over 100000 trees, Meiji Shrine is Tokyo’s most important Shinto site. Thousands of visitors pass through its towering torii gates each day into a peaceful world dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.

Address: 1-1 Yoyogi, Kamizono-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 151-8557

Founded in 1869, Yasukuni Shrine honors those who died in service of Japan. The spacious grounds form the second-largest shrine complex in Tokyo and include a museum offering insight into the country’s military history.

Address: 3-1-1 Kudankita, Chiyoda, Tokyo, 102-8246

Just steps from Akihabara, Kanda Shrine has protected Tokyo for centuries. It hosts one of the city’s largest Shinto festivals, the Kanda Matsuri, and is known as a place where locals pray for prosperity and good fortune.

Address: 2-16-2 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0021

Famous for its long rows of 90 bright red torii gates, Hie Shrine sits on a hillside near the Imperial Palace. It is also the center of the Sanno Festival in June, one of Tokyo’s three great festivals.

Address: 2 Chome-10-5 Nagatacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 100-0014

Hanazono Shrine (Hanazono-jinja) is located in the heart of Shinjuku near the Kabukicho entertainment district. It is known for its vibrant festivals and flea markets, and in late March and early April many visitors enjoy its cherry blossoms (sakura).

Address: 5–17–3 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0022

Yushima Shrine is one of the few Confucian temples in Tokyo and is registered as a national historical site. The shrine has long been a place of worship for students seeking academic success, and in spring its plum blossoms attract large crowds.

Address: 1-4-25 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0034

Standing beside the Sumida River, Ushijima Shrine is dedicated to a sacred ox called nade-ushi, believed to bring good health. Its quiet atmosphere and riverside setting make it a hidden gem away from the crowds.

Address: 1-4-5 Mukojima, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 131-0033