Top 10 Religious Sites in Tokyo - 2023

Updated Sep 2023

No.1
4 photos
Sensō-ji
4.6/5
4,055 Reviews

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Tokyo
5.6km from downtown

Religious Sites
"Asakusa Temple (Japanese: Sens ji), officially known as Sens ji, is located in Asakusa Erchome, Taitung District, Tokyo, Japan. It is the oldest temple in Tokyo. The mountain number is Jinlong Mountain. The worship of the god is the holy Guanyin. Originally a Tiantai Zong, it became the main mountain of the holy Guanyin Zong after the Second World War. The Guanyin Bodhisattva is commonly known as the Asakusa Guanyin. According to the Tokyo Tourism Consortium, the number of tourists is also included, and there are 3000-4000 10,000 people a year. According to the number of visits and sightseeing in temples and shrines, this is the first in Japan. The upstream of the main ginseng road has been endless, and the number of visitors on New Year's Day has reached more than one million. On the 18th of each month, the day of the auspicious day or the "tea soup moon lectern", the prayers were heard in the hall. The sun went out of the trestle bridge for about 40 minutes by water bus. There were buses to and from Ueno Guanglan Road to Leimen. Underground rail - Ginza line, Asakusa station. Underground - Toei Asakusa Line, get off at Asakusa Station."
Highlights: One of Tokyo’s oldest and most significant Buddhist temples, Senso-ji is located in the city’s Asakusa District. Dedicated to the Bodhisattva of compassion, the first temple was founded as far back as 645 CE. Destroyed during World War II, Senso-ji was eventually rebuilt and stands now as a symbol of rebirth and peace. Many small shops line the main street approaching the temple. It is a popular area for tourists and among the more well-known parts of Tokyo. Each spring a grand festival is held in and around Senso-ji. Over the course of a few days upwards of 2 million people visit the temple complex.
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No.2
4 photos
Meiji Jingu
4.6/5
759 Reviews

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Tokyo
6km from downtown

Religious Sites
"My visit to Meiji Jingu in Tokyo, near its closing time at around 5 pm, was a memorable experience. I was accompanied by a friend, and we were relieved that we arrived in time to explore this remarkable place. The walk leading up to the shrine was enchanting, with lush green fields and an abundance of trees, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a jungle. The natural beauty surrounding us was truly breathtaking, and it felt like a serene escape from the bustling city.Upon reaching the shrine, I was immediately struck by its magnificence. The wooden buildings exuded a sense of rich history and culture, transporting me to a different time. Even though our visit was short-lived due to the closing time at 5:20 pm, I cherished every moment spent there.In those brief moments, I truly appreciated the beauty and serenity of Meiji Jingu, and it left a lasting impression on me. I would recommend this cultural gem to anyone visiting Tokyo, even if you have limited time to explore it fully."
Highlights: Meiji Jingu is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. It is located in Tokyo’s Shibuya ward. The shrine is surrounded by a forest park consisting of over 120,000 trees donated by people from all parts of Japan. Together with the adjacent Yoyogi Park, Meiji Jingu is part of a large greenspace in central Tokyo. Enormous torii, or gates, mark the entrance to the shrine complex. Because of its size and the relative seclusion it offers, Meiji Jingu is an extremely popular location. Many people come to spend time on the laws or to admire the wildflowers. It really is a beautiful place.
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No.3
4 photos
Kaminarimon Gate
4.5/5
359 Reviews

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Tokyo
5.3km from downtown

Religious Sites
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"Asakusa Leimen is close to Asakusa Line of Duying, and the transportation is convenient. There are Sensoji Temple, pedestrian street, and affordable hotels and restaurants nearby. The price is cheap. It is an ideal tourist place to stay in 1-2 Day."
Highlights: The Kaminarimon, or "Thunder Gate," is the outer of two large entrance gates leading to the Senso-ji temple complex in Tokyo's Asakusa district. The gate is dominated by a large red lantern displaying the gate's name in Japanese. First built in 941 CE, the gate was moved to it's current location in 1635. Over the next few hundred years, it was twice burnt down. The present incarnation was dedicated in 1960. Kaminarimon and Senso-ji are very popular attractions with many Japanese and foreign tourists milling about, snapping photos, and enjoying the day.
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No.4
4 photos
Gotokuji Temple
4.4/5
66 Reviews

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Tokyo
10.9km from downtown

Religious Sites
"Gotokuji temple is a serene and culturally rich destination in Tokyo, Japan. Known as the birthplace of the Maneki-neko, or the "beckoning cat," this temple holds significant historical and religious importance. The temple's peaceful ambiance creates a perfect setting for contemplation and relaxation. Whether you're interested in Japanese history, spirituality, or simply seeking a tranquil escape from the bustling city, Gotokuji temple is a must-visit gem that offers a glimpse into Japan's fascinating heritage. The cute Maneki-neko here is one of the most Instagrammed spots in Japan. One can get some cute cat souvenirs back home for good fortune."
Highlights: Gotoku-ji Temple, located in Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, is a temple and the birthplace of the famous "lucky cat". Hao De Temple was built in 1480 and belonged to the Rinzai Sect earlier, and in 1584 it was changed to the Caodong Sect. The temple is very large in scale and the environment is very quiet. Every spring, cherry blossoms are in full bloom near the temple. The Setagaya Castle Ruins are nearby.
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No.5
Zojo-ji Temple
4.5/5
221 Reviews

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Tokyo
2.2km from downtown

Religious Sites
"Japan has lost this temple, it seems very clean, because its geographical location is relatively special, this temple when I went there were a lot of monks here to read scriptures, cultivate their body, such a scene looks so quiet, so peaceful"
Highlights: Zojo-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Tokyo’s Minato ward. Zojo-ji is notable for its relationship with the Tokugawa clan, the rulers of Japan during the Edo period. Six of the Tokugawa shoguns are buried in the Taitoku-in Mausoleum on the temple grounds. Zojo-ji’s main gate is the oldest wooden building in Tokyo, dating from 1622. Today, the cathedral and other structures have been rebuilt, and Zojo-ji Temple continues to serve as the main temple of the Pure Land Sect Buddhism and a central seminary for priests and novices. Set near Tokyo Tower, the temple complex is a great place for a stroll and for taking some great pictures.
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No.6
4 photos
Ueno Toshogu Shrine
4.4/5
123 Reviews

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Tokyo
4.9km from downtown

Religious Sites
"Ueno Dongzhao Palace, built in 1627 and built in 1651, is a designated important cultural treasure by the Japanese state (may be equivalent to China's key cultural relics protection units)."
Highlights: Ueno Tosho-gu is a prominent Shinto shrine located in Tokyo’s Taito ward. First established in 1627 and later renovated in 1651, the shrine has remained mostly intact since, making it a great example of Shinto architecture in the Edo period. The shrine utilizes ornate gold and decorative wood carving characterizing of traditional Japanese design. The major gates, pillars, and halls are all quite eye-catching and provide excellent backdrops for photographs. As the shrine complex is located within Ueno Park, it is great to combine with visits to nearby Akihabara or Asakusa.
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No.7
Suga Jinja
3.8/5
36 Reviews

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Tokyo
4.2km from downtown

Religious Sites
"Since the film's release, it has attracted many fans to make the pilgrimage, especially at a crossroads in front of the shrine, which is also the location for famous scenes. Mainly dedicated to the god of sukuka and the god of inari, the shrine has the precious "36 Song Xian Painting", which is the designated tangible cultural heritage of Shinjuku District."
Highlights: Suka Shrine is located in the Shinjuku area and became famous for "Your Name". The stairs outside the shrine appear in a classic scene. Since the movie was released, it has attracted many fans to pilgrimage, especially a crossroad in front of the shrine, which is also the location of famous scenes. The Suka Shrine was founded in 1634 and mainly enshrines the Great God Suka and the Great God of Inari. The precious "Thirty-Six Songs" is preserved in the shrine, and it is a designated tangible cultural property of Shinjuku City.
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No.8
Tsukiji Hongwan-ji
4.3/5
108 Reviews

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Tokyo
840m from downtown

Religious Sites
"Check in the Tokyo Tsukiji Benyuan Temple, the original Tsukiji Benyuan Temple was built in 1617, with a long history and a strong incense. It is the other courtyard of Kyoto Benyuan Temple. Unfortunately, it was destroyed later. The rebuilt temple was based on the Tianyu Jialan style and built a distinctive monastery with masonry and unique design. Not only is it special in appearance, but its layout and decoration actually blend the characteristics of each religion. There are seats on the main hall for good faith and silent casting, and there is also a standard organ for the church. Tsukiji Benwan Temple is one of the most representative monasteries in Tokyo, and there are many people here to pray for blessings."
Highlights: Tsukiji Honganji is a Honganji temple of the Jodo Shinshu sect located in Tokyo, adjacent to Tokyo Train Station and Ginza Temple. The original Tsukiji Honganji Temple, built in 1617, has a long history and prosperous incense. It is an annex of Kyoto Honganji Temple. It is a pity that it was destroyed later. The rebuilt temple was based on the style of Tianzhu Jialan, and a unique temple was built with bricks and stones with a unique design. Not only is it special in appearance, its layout and decoration actually incorporate the characteristics of various religions. There are seats in the main hall for good believers to pray silently, and there is also a standard church-pipe organ. Tsukiji Honganji is one of the most representative temples in Tokyo, and many people come here to pray.
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No.9
Hanazono Shrine
4.5/5
97 Reviews

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Tokyo
5.9km from downtown

Religious Sites
"The garden shrine is also a quite large place. The red architectural structure is very welcome. This shrine is also the most famous place near Tokyo, Japan. The shrine is full of unique religious content inside and outside. It is the best to walk."
Highlights: For those who want to experience Japanese culture in person but feel too far away from Sensoji Temple, the Garden Shrine is a good choice, and the Japanese prefer to call it "Shinjuku Town Hall". Although the shrine is not large in size, the red torii gates, the wooden horses that pray for prayers, and the unique Japanese "gomori" (amulet) are all distinctive. Especially every Sunday, the open space of the Garden Shrine will be transformed into a second-hand market, and tourists can buy some treasures by the way.
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No.10
Gokokuji Temple
4.5/5
63 Reviews

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Tokyo
6.6km from downtown

Religious Sites
"I heard this temople had up to 40 cats, maybe its the hot summer weather but I didnt see any except 1 hidden black cat. There were alot of ravens who were playing together. The temple grounds are quite pretty."
Highlights: Built by the Shingon Sect in 1368, it is a temple with a very long history in Okinawa. It houses the Birdling Monument and the Sakura Pagoda. It is located near the Nami Shrine in the northwest of Naha City. In 1368, King Chadu established it to facilitate the spread of religion by the Shingon sect. At the end of the Shogunate, it was used as a reception for foreign guests, and Christian Birdling lived here for 8 years to spread religion. There are stone monuments commemorating Birdling and the Sakura Tower where more than 700 children died in the shelling during the Second World War.
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No.11
Nezu Shrine
4.2/5
69 Reviews

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Tokyo
5.5km from downtown

Religious Sites
"Big shrine in the heart of the capital, good atmosphere, shady, beautiful, many photo angles Easy to travel 🚃📸"
Highlights: Nezu Shrine has a history of about 1900 years. The red gate and main hall are full of traces of history, and the tranquil atmosphere is solemn and sacred. Azaleas of different colors are planted inside and outside the shrine. Every May, the azaleas bloom in red and pink, adding vitality to the sacred place.
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No.12
4 photos
Hie Shrine
4.4/5
71 Reviews

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Tokyo
2.3km from downtown

Religious Sites
"We walked about 20 minutes from Roppongi and it was really hot and humid. Google Maps takes you through a few blocks, but we were able to see the homes of the rich all over Europe cars and private homes. I'm not sure if it's worth a visit for everyone but I'm glad to see these things. The bird house is beautiful. Other than that, I'm not sure if we'll come again..."
Highlights: Hie Shrine is a shrine located in Nagata-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan. It enshrines the Sanno Matsuri, one of the three major festivals in Edo. The old society is based on the imperial sacrificial society and the official money society. The main deity is Dashanzha, and the deity is Guochangli, Izangran Zun and Zuzhongyanzun.
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No.13
4 photos
Kanda Myojin Shrine
4.5/5
68 Reviews

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Tokyo
3.4km from downtown

Religious Sites
"A Shinto shrine located at the centre of Tokyo, gained its fame via the frequent visit of former shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu."
Highlights: Kanda Myojin, also known as Kanda Shrine, is an ancient shrine built in 730. The owner of the shrine here asks for the prosperity of the business, the consummation of the family, and the end of the good relationship. Heiseimon is one of the deities enshrined in this shrine. The shrine environment is very good, especially suitable for cherry blossom viewing. The typical Japanese shrine buildings in vermilion are very commensurate with the cherry blossoms. And there are not many tourists here, it is very quiet and comfortable. It is worth mentioning that, probably because the shrine is very close to Akihabara, the hanging Ema is also very interesting, and it is full of many cute anime characters.
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No.14
Tokyo Daijingu
4.5/5
52 Reviews

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Tokyo
3.6km from downtown

Religious Sites
"It is a very beautiful place. Worth a visit It is unique that reflects the way of life of Japan as well. Can travel easily using public transport It is a shrine that prays for love. I wish everyone hopes for love."
Highlights: Tokyo Daijingu Shrine is a shrine in Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan. It is one of the "Tokyo Five Shrines", and it was originally the Yaobai Temple of the Imperial Palace. It is a famous shrine in Tokyo where people meet and pray for luck in love.
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No.15
Hōzōmon Gate
4.4/5
48 Reviews

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Tokyo
5.5km from downtown

Religious Sites
"Hōzōmon Gate A famous landmark in Akasuka, next to a famous Buddhist temple and Shrine, surrounded by hundreds of little shops and restaurants. It's a must visit place for tourists, however be aware, it gets really crowded at the weekends."
Highlights: Treasure Gate, also known as "Renwang Gate", is the mountain gate of Sensoji Temple. The words "Asakusa Temple" are inscribed on the plaque. It is a popular landscape for tourists to take photos and is also an important and only way to enter the temple from Nakamise Commercial Street. Since it was built, this mountain gate has suffered from repeated fires and has been rebuilt several times. Now the building that visitors see is equipped with modern fire-fighting equipment.
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No.16
Musashi Mitake Shrine
5.0/5
1 Reviews

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Ome
11.4km from downtown

Religious Sites
"You can see the sea of clouds from the precincts. It was a great view, so it was worth climbing 😍"
No.17
Omiya Hachiman Shrine
4.5/5
3 Reviews

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Tokyo
11.3km from downtown

Religious Sites
"The painted horse in the Yaogong is a very cute foot shape. Foot help is literally the meaning of feet. From ancient times, it has been regarded as the patron saint of legs, travel and transportation. It is still regarded as the god of physical recovery and rest."
Highlights: An ancient shrine surrounded by towering trees, it is famous as the heart of Tokyo.
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No.18
4 photos
Kan'ei-ji
4.5/5
20 Reviews

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Tokyo
5.7km from downtown

Religious Sites
"Kuanyong Temple is also a landmark of Sensoji Temple. There are many tourists from Sensoji Temple. There are people crowded everywhere. It is not interesting to come here on holidays. The temple here is still very good."
Highlights: Kanei Temple is located in Ueno, Taito District, Tokyo, next to Toshogu Shrine in Ueno Park. It was founded by Tokugawa Jiaguang. The first abbot, Tianhai, was built in 1625. Because it started construction in the Kanei period, it is called Kannon. Yongji Temple. Kuanyong Temple is Japan's Tiantai Zongmenji Temple (the monastery where dignitaries lived and stayed), and it is one of the three mountains of Tiantai Zong, mainly dedicated to the pharmacist Tathagata. The three wooden Yakushi Buddha statues in the temple have been designated as important cultural properties by the Japanese government.
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No.19
Hanazono Inari Shrine
4.3/5
27 Reviews

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Tokyo
4.8km from downtown

Religious Sites
"This is a shrine that will be visited in Ueno Park. In Ueno Park, there are not only shrines to visit. There are also museums and art galleries. If it is spring, you can also enjoy the cherry blossoms by the way. It is a very beautiful park."
Highlights: Ueno Park Garden Inari Shrine is located in Ueno Park. From the entrance of the shrine to the main building, bright red torii gates are lined up, just like Fushimi Inari Shrine. In addition to the beautiful access road, there are many people who come here to worship devoutly, and the Garden Inari Shrine is also very effective.
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No.20
Yoyogi Hachimangu
4.3/5
30 Reviews

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Tokyo
6.9km from downtown

Religious Sites
"Yyodaiki Yasaka Palace was a place I stumbled upon when I passed by. When I finally visited, it definitely didn’t disappoint me. There are a lot of natural surroundings around, the atmosphere here is really relaxing and ordinary, and the shrine architecture itself is exquisite. The location feels somewhat different from other urban shrines in Tokyo, making it a place worth visiting."
Highlights: In the Yoyogi area of Shibuya Ward, Yoyogi Hachimangu Shrine has been enshrined in Yoyogi since ancient times. Yoyogi Hachiman Shrine, famous as a god who wards off bad luck and good luck, has a "dove fortune that brings luck".
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