Last Updated on 2026年1月12日 by IAJ
Nezu Shrine Tokyo Guide:
Tokyo’s Hidden 1,900-Year-Old Sacred Sanctuary
Discover Tokyo’s most peaceful shrine with vermillion torii gates and stunning azalea gardens.
What is Nezu Shrine?
Nezu Shrine (根津神社) is one of Tokyo’s best-kept secrets—a stunning 1,900-year-old sanctuary that offers everything visitors love about Japan’s famous shrines, but without the overwhelming crowds. Founded around 100 AD by the legendary prince Yamato Takeru, this Important Cultural Property features breathtaking vermillion torii gates, pristine Edo-period architecture from 1705, and Japan’s most spectacular azalea garden.
While millions flock to Meiji Jingu and Senso-ji, savvy travelers discover Nezu Shrine’s peaceful courtyards, Instagram-worthy “senbon torii” tunnel, and authentic spiritual atmosphere. Located in the charming Yanaka district—Tokyo’s last surviving old town—this hidden gem lets you experience traditional Japan at its finest.
Perfect for: Culture seekers, photographers, couples, temple enthusiasts
Best Time: April (Azalea Festival), early morning for solitude
Admission: Free (¥200 during Azalea Festival)
Why Choose Nezu Over Major Shrines?
No Crowds
While Meiji Jingu sees 3 million visitors annually, Nezu remains peaceful and uncrowded—perfect for photography and contemplation.
Important Cultural Property
All major buildings date to 1705 and are designated Important Cultural Properties—authentic Edo-period architecture.
Instagram Paradise
Vermillion torii gate tunnel rivals Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari, but you can actually take photos without crowds.
3,000 Azaleas
Japan’s most spectacular azalea garden blooms every April with 50+ varieties in a rainbow of colors.
How to Get to Nezu Shrine
Nezu Station (Closest)
- Line: Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line
- Exit: Exit 1
- Walking Time: 5 minutes
Todaimae Station (Alternative)
- Line: Tokyo Metro Nanboku Line
- Exit: Exit 1
- Walking Time: 10 minutes
- Bonus: Pass through University of Tokyo campus
Nezu Shrine (根津神社)
1,900 Years of Sacred History
Nezu Shrine is a living museum of Japanese sacred architecture. Every building you see—from the two-story Romon Gate to the golden Honden (main hall)—dates to 1705 and is protected as an Important Cultural Property. Unlike newer reconstructions at major shrines, these are authentic 300-year-old Edo-period structures adorned with intricate carvings and gleaming gold leaf.
Top Highlights
- Senbon Torii Tunnel: Walk through dozens of vermillion torii gates—a miniature version of Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari, but without the crowds
- Romon Gate (楼門): The last remaining two-story gate from Edo-period Tokyo, featuring stunning architectural details
- Azalea Garden: 3,000 azalea plants in 50+ varieties bloom spectacularly every April
- Golden Sculptures: Intricate carvings and gold decorations adorn the shrine buildings
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Unlike Meiji Jingu or Senso-ji, you can actually hear birds and contemplate in silence
Bunkyo Azalea Festival (April 1-30)
Every spring, Nezu Shrine transforms into a sea of color during the Bunkyo Azalea Festival (文京つつじまつり). The hillside garden explodes with 3,000 azalea plants in over 50 varieties—from pure white to deep crimson to vibrant magenta. This is the most spectacular azalea display in all of Tokyo.
- Dates: April 1-30 annually
- Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Admission: ¥200 (garden only; shrine grounds remain free)
- Peak Bloom: Mid to late April
- Crowds: Busy on weekends, peaceful on weekday mornings
What Foreign Visitors Say
“Well worth a visit if you’re in Tokyo, particularly if you’ve never been to a Shinto shrine. Lots of photogenic orange buildings and torii gates.”
— TripAdvisor Review
Practical Information
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (daily)
- Admission: Free (¥200 during Azalea Festival)
- Visit Duration: 30-60 minutes
- Best Time: Early morning (8-9 AM) for solitude
- Photography: Allowed throughout
Pro Tips
- Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds
- Combine with Yanaka Ginza shopping street (10 min walk)
- April azalea season gets busy—arrive early
- English information boards available
- Explore Yanaka Cemetery nearby for more atmosphere
Explore Old Tokyo: Yanaka Walking Tour
Discover Tokyo’s Last Surviving Traditional District
Nezu Shrine sits in the heart of Yanaka (谷中)—one of the few Tokyo neighborhoods that survived World War II bombings. This charming “shitamachi” (old downtown) area feels like stepping back in time, with narrow lanes, traditional wooden houses, artisan workshops, and the nostalgic Yanaka Ginza shopping street.
Join an English-Guided Walking Tour
Want to truly understand Nezu Shrine and the Yanaka area’s history? Join a 3.5-hour English-guided walking tour that brings Old Tokyo to life. Your expert guide will take you through Nezu Shrine, Yanaka Ginza shopping street, hidden temples, traditional craftsmen’s workshops, and share stories about life in Edo-period Tokyo.
3.5 Hours
Perfect half-day tour
English Guide
Local expert fluent in English
Small Groups
Personal experience
Perfect for culture lovers and history enthusiasts
Highly rated by foreign tourists on TripAdvisor
Why Visitors Love the Yanaka Area
- Authentic Old Tokyo: Wooden machiya houses, narrow alleys, traditional atmosphere
- Yanaka Ginza: Charming retro shopping street with 70+ shops and street food
- Cat Town: Famous for friendly neighborhood cats—perfect for cat lovers!
- Fewer Tourists: Experience the real Tokyo, not the tourist version
- Traditional Crafts: Visit artisan workshops making traditional goods
Essential Tips for Your Nezu Shrine Visit
Best Times to Visit
- Azalea Season: Mid to late April (peak bloom)
- Time of Day: 8-9 AM (peaceful, great light)
- Weekdays: Much less crowded than weekends
- Avoid: Weekend afternoons during festival
Budget Guide
- Nezu Shrine: Free (¥200 during festival)
- Yanaka Walking Tour: ~¥6,000-8,000
- Yanaka Ginza Food: ¥500-1,000
- Total: ¥200-10,000 (depending on activities)
Sample Itinerary
- 8:30 AM: Arrive at Nezu Shrine (quiet time)
- 9:30 AM: Explore torii gates & azalea garden
- 10:30 AM: Walk to Yanaka Ginza (10 min)
- 11:00 AM: Browse shops & try street food
- 12:00 PM: Lunch in Yanaka area
Photography Tips
- Best Spots: Torii gate tunnel, Romon Gate
- Lighting: Morning light is softer and warmer
- Azalea Season: Bring wide-angle lens
- Respect: No photography during ceremonies
Travel smart: Private Airport Transfer
Stations in Tokyo are far more crowded than you imagine, especially during rush hours. Navigating packed platforms with heavy luggage after a long flight can be exhausting and stressful.
Don’t let transportation fatigue ruin your first day in Tokyo. A private transfer ensures you arrive at your hotel refreshed and ready to explore, without fighting crowds or climbing stairs with suitcases.
No Crowds
Private vehicle just for you
Door-to-Door
Direct to hotel entrance
No Luggage Stress
Driver handles everything
More expensive than trains, but infinitely more comfortable
Perfect for families, groups, late arrivals, or anyone who values comfort
