In addition to Kyoto and Nara, there are many shrines and temples in Tokyo where you can experience Japanese history and culture. In this issue, we will introduce 10 shrines and temples that are easily accessible from central Tokyo and recommended for sightseeing; .
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Meiji Jingu（明治神宮 ）
Meiji Jingu was founded in 1920 and is located in Shibuya Ward. It is famous as the shrine with the largest number of first-time visitors in Japan, and is characterized by its spaciousness and abundant nature. The atmosphere is so peaceful and tranquil that it is hard to believe that it is located in the capital city of Tokyo. Although the shrine attracts many tourists, it has long been a favorite place of relaxation and recreation for Tokyo residents.
Historical books and buildings can be seen at Meiji Jingu. Religious events and sumo wrestling events are also held here, giving visitors a strong sense of Japanese history and culture.
Kanda Myojin（神田明神）
Kanda Myojin, located in Tokyo’s Chiyoda Ward, is a shrine with a history of nearly 1,300 years.
The three deities of Kanda Myojin are Daikoku-sama, the god of marriage, Ebisu-sama, the god of business prosperity, and Masakado-sama, the god of protection from disaster. It is famous as a powerful power spot in Tokyo.
Hanazono Shrine（花園神社）
Hanazono Shrine in Shinjuku is a power spot loved by the locals for its good fortune for prosperous business. It is also famous for its annual festival called “Tori-no-ichi” (rooster market).
Hie-jinja Shrine (日枝神社)
Hie-jinja Shrine, located in Akasaka, is famous for its blessings for matchmaking, luck at work, and prosperity in business. Many people who want to start a business or get ahead in life often come to Hie Shrine to make a wish for better luck at work. Hie-jinja Shrine also has a statue of a monkey, and monkeys are depicted on ema (votive picture tablet) and amulets, and appear in various places.
Tomioka Hachimangu（富岡八幡宮）
Tomioka Hachimangu was built in 1627. It is located in the Fukagawa area around Monzennaka-cho and Kiyosumishirakawa, where fashionable cafes, general stores, and galleries have been established in recent years.
Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine was built in 1627. It is located in the Fukagawa area around Monzennaka-cho and Kiyosumi-Shirakawa, where fashionable cafes, general stores, and galleries have been established in recent years.
In summer, the Fukagawa Hachiman Festival is held, in which people carry portable shrines and parade through the streets while splashing water on them. This famous festival is one of the three major festivals in Edo, and the whole town gets into the spirit of the festival, with visitors from home and abroad joining in the excitement.
Ueno Toshogu Shrine （上野東照宮）
Ueno Toshogu Shrine was built in 1627. It is a popular power spot for blessings for victory, success in life, and health and longevity. The gorgeous structure is designated as a national important cultural property as it is a valuable building that has survived wars and earthquakes without collapsing.
Senso-ji Temple（浅草寺）
Senso-ji , where the symbol of Asakusa, the Kaminarimon, is located, is a famous and popular tourist spot. After passing through the gate, there is a place called Nakamise-dori where you can eat and buy souvenirs, and many stores line the street.
Nezu Jinja Shrine（根津神社）
This shrine is located in Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, and has many red Torii gates lined up in a row, making it a wonderful place to take pictures. It is a power spot that offers many blessings such as protection from bad luck and good luck in marriage. It is also famous for its beautiful azalea blossoms in spring, and the azalea festival in April is a must-see.
Zojoji（増上寺）
Zojoji is located in Minato Ward, Tokyo, and is famous as a power spot for “luck in winning” and “luck at work. Its location near the Tokyo Tower makes it a popular tourist spot among visitors. Although the temple is located in an urban area surrounded by buildings, its expansive grounds offer a tranquil setting for visitors.
Tokyo Daijingu（東京大神宮）
Tokyo Daijingu in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, was built in 1880 and is popular among the younger generation for its blessings for matchmaking. Many worshippers come to the shrine for love Omikuji and match-making charms. There are also many seasonal events, most of which are free to attend, so why not visit the shrine according to the season?
