Top Temples and Shrines in Tokyo Every Tourist Must See

Tokyo is a city where ancient tradition and futuristic skylines coexist beautifully. Hidden between bustling streets and glowing billboards are peaceful corners filled with incense, torii gates, and centuries-old structures.
Last updated: 23.12.2025

Whether you’re seeking spiritual calm, rich history, or simply a stunning photo backdrop, temples and shrines in Tokyo offer a deep dive into Japanese culture. These sacred places reveal a slower side of the city - one shaped by devotion, art, and architecture. They’re also often surrounded by beautiful gardens and tranquil paths that contrast sharply with the urban buzz. Here’s a curated list of the best temples and shrines in Tokyo to explore during your visit.

Sensō-ji Temple (Asakusa)

Sensō-ji is Tokyo’s oldest and most visited temple, located in the heart of Asakusa. Founded in the 7th century, it’s famous for its massive red Kaminarimon gate and the bustling Nakamise shopping street that leads to the temple. The main hall is vibrant with worshippers and tourists, especially during festivals like Sanja Matsuri. Visitors often draw omikuji (paper fortunes) and cleanse themselves with incense smoke believed to bring good health. Even as crowds gather, the atmosphere remains sacred. Sensō-ji is the definitive stop when exploring temples in Tokyo, showcasing both grandeur and tradition.

Meiji Shrine (Harajuku)

Tucked away in a vast forested area near Harajuku, Meiji Shrine honors Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken, key figures in Japan’s modernization. Entering through towering torii gates, visitors are immediately immersed in nature and calm. The shrine grounds include walking paths, an inner garden, and barrels of sake and wine offered in tribute. It’s also one of the most popular spots for traditional Shinto weddings, which you might witness during your visit. The shrine’s simplicity and elegance reflect spiritual purity and harmony with nature. Meiji Shrine is one of the most iconic shrines in Tokyo, ideal for reflection and slow walks.

Zojo-ji Temple (Shiba Park)

Just steps from Tokyo Tower, Zojo-ji offers a striking contrast between ancient and modern Japan. As the family temple of the Tokugawa shogunate, it holds significant historical value. Its spacious grounds house large gates, cherry blossom trees, and hundreds of Jizō statues dressed in red bibs - protectors of children and travelers.

Despite its central location, Zojo-ji remains peaceful and uncrowded. It’s especially beautiful during springtime, when the cherry trees bloom beneath the Tokyo skyline. For those interested in history, Zojo-ji brings together spiritual depth and Edo-era legacy.

Nezu Shrine (Bunkyo)

Nezu Shrine is one of Tokyo’s oldest shrines and is especially famous for its tunnel of vermilion torii gates, reminiscent of Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari. The shrine’s tranquil grounds include ponds, stone bridges, and a lush azalea garden that bursts into color each April. Its architecture dates back to the Edo period and is registered as an Important Cultural Property. Fewer tourists venture here, making it a peaceful escape. Nezu Shrine offers a local, photogenic charm that’s perfect for a quiet stroll. It’s a top pick among best temples and shrines in Tokyo for those seeking something less commercial.

Gotokuji Temple (Setagaya)

Gotokuji is believed to be the birthplace of the maneki-neko, or “beckoning cat,” a symbol of good fortune. The temple grounds are dotted with thousands of white cat statues, creating a unique and whimsical scene. The temple itself is serene, with wooden halls, stone lanterns, and lovely gardens.

Visitors often leave their own maneki-neko figurines to attract luck. Set in a quiet residential neighborhood, Gotokuji is less known to tourists but deeply cherished by locals. It’s a fun and meaningful detour for anyone intrigued by folk beliefs and symbols.

Gotokuji Temple is also the burial site of Ii Naotaka, a prominent samurai lord from the Edo period and the second feudal lord of the Hikone Domain. The temple became the family temple of the Ii clan, and their graves can still be found on the grounds, adding a layer of historical significance beyond its famous maneki-neko connection.

Hie Shrine (Akasaka)

Perched on a hill in central Tokyo, Hie Shrine is known for its beautiful stairway lined with red torii gates. It’s a popular spot for photographers and those looking for a serene experience away from the main tourist trail. The shrine is dedicated to Oyamakui-no-kami, a guardian deity of Tokyo. Its annual Sanno Matsuri is one of the city’s major festivals, featuring colorful parades and traditional performances. Hie Shrine blends old traditions with modern city surroundings, making it one of the more accessible and culturally rich shrines in Tokyo.

Travel Tip: Linking Your Temple Visits with Rail Routes

Many visitors combine their Tokyo itinerary with other iconic Japanese cities using the efficient train network. For example, after visiting Tokyo’s spiritual sites, you can head west via the Tokyo to Osaka train, which links you to Osaka’s lively temples like Shitenno-ji. Or take the Tokyo to Kyoto train for a journey to Japan’s ancient capital, where temple culture runs deep. These fast, comfortable rail connections make it easy to explore beyond the capital while keeping temples and heritage at the heart of your journey. Consider grabbing a JR Pass if you’re planning multiple stops.

Exploring temples and shrines in Tokyo is one of the most rewarding ways to connect with Japan’s deep spiritual roots, historical layers, and quiet beauty. Each spot offers something different - from vibrant festivals to hidden gardens and sacred statues. Whether you have a few hours or a full day, these places invite you to pause and appreciate the culture that continues to shape modern Tokyo. Include these spiritual landmarks on your visit to experience more than just a city - you’ll experience its soul.