Nezu Shrine: Tokyo’s Timeless Sanctuary

Nestled in Tokyo’s Bunkyo ward, Nezu Shrine offers a tranquil retreat that combines ancient history, lush nature, and spiritual serenity. With a legacy spanning over 1,900 years, this Shinto shrine stands as one of Tokyo’s oldest and most culturally significant landmarks, providing a peaceful escape from the city’s bustling pace.

🏯 History & Significance

Established by the legendary Yamato Takeru no Mikoto, Nezu Shrine was relocated to its current site in 1705 by Tokugawa Tsunayoshi to honor his successor, Tokugawa Ienobu. Over time, it became a guardian shrine for the Tokugawa family and played a pivotal role in Japan’s modernization during Emperor Meiji’s era. Remarkably, Nezu Shrine has withstood both the Great Kanto Earthquake and WWII bombings, preserving its original Edo-period architecture.

📍 Location & Transportation
Address: 1-28-9 Nezu, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
By Subway:
Nezu Station (Chiyoda Line) – 5-minute walk
Sendagi Station (Chiyoda Line) – 5-minute walk
Todaimae Station (Namboku Line) – 5-minute walk
From Tokyo Station:
Subway: 22 minutes, ¥180–210
Bus: 30 minutes, ¥210
Taxi: ~7 minutes, ¥2,900–3,500

🕰️ Operation Hours & Entrance Fee
Shrine Grounds: Open 24 hours
Main Hall: Hours vary by season

Nov–Jan: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Feb: 6:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Mar: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Apr–May, Sep: 5:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Jun–Aug: 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Oct: 5:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Admission: Free

Azalea Garden (seasonal): ¥300

🌸 Must-Do Activities

Walk Through Senbon Torii: Stroll through a corridor of vermilion gates reminiscent of Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari.
Visit the Azalea Garden: During the Bunkyo Azalea Festival (April–May), witness over 3,000 azaleas in bloom across 100 varieties.
Explore Edo Architecture: Marvel at the Romon Gate, Karamon Gate, and Honden—all designated Important Cultural Properties.
Otome Inari Shrine: Discover this hidden gem within the complex, dedicated to rice and prosperity.
Participate in Rituals: Experience omikuji (fortune slips), ema (wish plaques), and purification at the temizuya.
Seasonal Festivals: Enjoy events like the Nezu Shrine Festival in September and Hatsumode (New Year’s visit).

✨ Why Visit?

Nezu Shrine offers a unique blend of spiritual depth, historical resilience, and natural beauty. Whether you’re captivated by its Edo-period architecture, seasonal festivities, or serene atmosphere, it’s a must-see destination for anyone exploring Tokyo’s cultural heritage.