Iconic Temples and Shrines in Tokyo
It can be confusing to tell the differences between the religious affiliations of a temple or shrine if you are not familiar with religious practices in Japan. Shinto is the predominant religion practiced by majority of the population. There are numerous temples and shrines in Japan give visitors a glimpse of the unique culture and rich history of Japan and its people. Check out just some of the iconic must see temples and shrines in Tokyo.
Toyokawa Inari Tokyo Betsuin
The Toyokawa Inari Tokyo Betsuin was originally built in 1828 and is a branch temple of the main Toyokawa Inari Temple in Aichi Prefecture. Located in one if not the busiest districts of Tokyo, you can find numerous fox figures around the Toyokawa Inari Tokyo Betsuin, a weirdly peaceful temple, in spite of its location. The fox figures are believed to protect the temple from evil.
Hie Shrine
The Hie Shrine is a Shinto shrine with its festival Sannō Festival is considered one of the three great Japanese festivals of Edo, along with the Fukagawa Matsuri and Kanda Matsuri. The main god of Hie shrine is Ōyamakui-no-kami.
Senso-ji
Iconic to Asakusa is Senso-ji for being Tokyo’s oldest and one of the most significant temples. Senso-ji is a popular Buddhist temple built in the early 7th century, and dedicated to Bodhisattva Kannon (Avalokitesvara). The impressive Hōzōmon or “Treasure-House Gate” is the inner of two large entrance gates that ultimately lead to the Sensō-ji while the outer being Kaminarimon Gate which is also the entrance of Nakamise-dori.
Gotoku-ji
Gotoku-ji is a Buddhist temple in Tokyo’s Setagaya district and is considered to be the birthplace of the famous beckoning cat. The temple is a “must see” whenever visiting Tokyo. Gotoku-ji Temple is unique not just for the legend but also for its architectural design. It is a three-story pagoda constructed similar to the traditional structures in Kyoto.
Togo Shrine
Located in the Harajuku area, Togo Shrine was built in honor of Imperial Japanese Navy Marshal-Admiral Marquis Tōgō Heihachirō, one of Japan’s greatest naval heroes. He gained victory against the Baltic fleet during the Russo-Japanese War in 1940s. After his death, Togo Shrine was built and dedicated to him by the people who recognized his achievements. The shrine is believe to grant “victories” blessed by the great marshal.