Nezu Shrine

Shrine

Prefecture

Tokyo

Type

Shrine

N/A

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Train Access

About This Destination

A gongen-style shrine finished in 1706 whose seven main structures are all Important Cultural Properties. In April a hillside of 3,000 azaleas opens for a donation; the rest of the year the draw is the narrow tunnel of torii at Otome Inari.

Most visitors come for the torii. Behind the main hall a line of donated red gates runs along the slope to Otome Inari, a small sanctuary built out over the pond on a wooden stage, its shrine set into a hollow in the bank. The passage is narrow, and the Karamon gate opens at 5:00 or 6:00 depending on the month. The shrine tells of a founding by Yamato Takeru more than 1,900 years ago in Sendagi, but what stands now dates from 1706, when the shogun Tsunayoshi gave this site, the birthplace of his heir Ienobu, and rebuilt it in gongen style. Seven structures, from the main hall to the two-story Romon gate, are Important Cultural Properties, and the shrine says the Romon is the only one of its kind left from Edo's shrines. Natsume Soseki and Mori Ogai were parishioners. In April, 3,000 azaleas of 100 varieties cover the hill; the garden opens only during the festival and asks a donation of 500 to 1,000 yen depending on the day.

Location

Prefecture: Tokyo

Address: Tokyo, Japan

Nearest Station: Nezu Station

Closed: Open every day.

Hours note: The Karamon gate opens between 5:00 and 6:00 depending on the month and closes at 17:00 from November to January, 17:30 in February and October, and 18:00 from March to September. The amulet office opens at 9:30 (9:00 on Sundays and holidays). The azalea garden opens only during the April festival, 9:00 to 17:30.

Best time to visit: April for the azalea festival; the torii tunnel and the Edo-period buildings can be seen all year

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

When do the azaleas bloom, and is there a fee?

The azalea garden opens only during the Bunkyo Azalea Festival in April, from 9:00 to 17:30. Entry is a donation of 500 to 1,000 yen depending on the day; the rest of the shrine is free.

What time do the gates open and close?

The Karamon gate opens between 5:00 and 6:00 depending on the month. It closes at 17:00 from November to January, 17:30 in February and October, and 18:00 from March to September.

Which stations are closest?

Nezu and Sendagi on the Chiyoda Line and Todaimae on the Namboku Line are each about 5 minutes on foot. Yanaka Ginza and the rest of Yanesen are within walking distance.