The thousand torii leading to the sacred precincts, a time of serene prayer.
A Tokyo haven of prayer and healing, greeted by sacred vermilion torii and a solemn worship hall
【根津神社】
Nezu Shrine, situated in Bunkyō Ward, Tokyo, is a venerable ancient shrine said to have been founded over 1,900 years ago by Yamato Takeru no Mikoto. The present shrine buildings were constructed in 1706 (Hōei 3) during the era of the fifth shogun, Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, and all seven structures—the main sanctuary, offering hall, worship hall, karamon gate, west gate, openwork fence (sukibei), and two-storied gate (rōmon)—are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. Celebrated as a masterpiece of Edo-period gongen-zukuri architecture, the site is highly valued for its historical and cultural significance. Within the precincts stands Otome Inari Shrine, lined with vermilion “thousand torii,” creating an otherworldly atmosphere. In spring, the grounds also serve as the stage for the “Bunkyō Azalea Festival,” where about 3,000 bushes and 100 varieties of azalea bloom in profusion, captivating visitors with natural beauty in every season.
Top 3 Highlights
1. A stately complex of shrine buildings designated Important Cultural Properties
The biggest highlight of Nezu Shrine is its complex of buildings that represent Gongen-zukuri architecture from the Edo period. Completed in 1706, the main hall, offering hall, and worship hall were built thanks to a donation from Tokugawa Tsunayoshi and are adorned with splendid carvings and lacquer. From the main gate and karamon to the latticework fence, all seven structures, which embody the refinement of Edo architecture, are preserved as Important Cultural Properties, conveying the high level of craftsmanship of the time. It is a precious place in Tokyo where you can offer prayers while feeling the weight of history.
2. A dreamlike world woven by vermilion thousand torii gates
Along the approach to Otome Inari Shrine deep within the grounds, rows of vermilion torii line up like a tunnel. As you pass through the gates, you are enveloped in a fantastical atmosphere, as if you had wandered into another world. The beautiful scenery woven by light and shadow is also a popular photo spot, offering visitors a special experience.
3. The “Bunkyō Azalea Festival” that colors spring
Held every April, the “Bunkyō Azalea Festival” is a spring tradition of Nezu Shrine. In the approximately 2,000-tsubo azalea garden, about 3,000 bushes and as many as 100 varieties of colorful azaleas are planted, and when they are at their best, the entire precincts are colored like a carpet of flowers. With a wide range of varieties from early to late blooming, you can enjoy beautiful flowers at any time during the festival period. During the festival, kitchen cars and food stalls also open, letting you enjoy a lively atmosphere along with flower viewing.
Facility Information
| Name | Nezu Shrine |
| Address | 東京都文京区根津1－28－9 |
| Access |
5-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line “Nezu Station” / “Sendagi Station” 5-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Namboku Line “Todaimae Station” 10-minute walk from Toei Mita Line “Hakusan Station” |
| Parking |
If you are visiting by car, there is a paid parking lot on the north approach side, and within the precincts there is a free parking lot for worshippers, prayer participants, and wedding attendees. When entering the precincts by car, please proceed at the slowest speed while paying attention to worshippers. Note: During the Azalea Festival period, the free parking lot within the precincts is unavailable. |
| Opening hours | For details, please see here. |
| Closed days | Open year-round |
| Fees |
Precincts: Free Azalea Garden: Donation of 500–1,000 yen depending on peak bloom (children of elementary school age or younger accompanied by a guardian are free) |
| Notes |
• Photography is prohibited on the stone-paved approach in front of the shrine building • Do not raise your voice within the precincts (please keep quiet especially near the main hall) • No smoking or open flames inside buildings designated as Important Cultural Properties
• Do not lean on or sit on buildings or fences ※ Walking within the precincts is permitted; please be considerate of other visitors and always clean up waste |
| Official website | https://nedujinja.or.jp/ |
| https://www.instagram.com/nedujinja_official/ |
Other recommended information
At Nezu Shrine, various festivals and events are held throughout the year. In September, the annual grand festival is held, and in years when the Shinkosai takes place (once every four years), a magnificent portable shrine procession that has continued since the Edo period is conducted. In addition, during the New Year there is Hatsumode, and in February the Setsubun Festival,
in June and December there is the Oharae, allowing you to participate in traditional seasonal events. Goshuin are also offered within the precincts and are popular as a memento of your visit. Although located in the city, Nezu Shrine, where you can feel tranquility and history, is a perfect place when you want to calm your mind.
References
- Nezu Shrine official website: https://www.nedujinja.or.jp/
BASIC INFORMATION
| Name |
根津神社 (ネヅ ジンジャ) |
|---|---|
| Address | 1-28-9 Nezu, Bunkyo City, Tokyo Access |
| Phone | 03-3822-0753 |
| Official URL | https://nedujinja.or.jp/ |
| Official Social Media |
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FACILITY INFORMATION
- Children
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Children welcome
- Cigarettes
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Non-smoking
- Other
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Near the station -
Recommended for families -
Recommended for couples -
Groups allowed