10 lesser-known temples and shrines in Tokyo worth visiting
- japansophy
- Nov 3
- 4 min read
Tokyo may be famous for iconic religious sites like Sensō-ji in Asakusa or Meiji Jingu in Shibuya, but you'll be fighting for elbow space and fending off selfie-stick attacks. If you're seeking something more intimate—spaces where you can breathe, wander, and soak in centuries of quiet history—Tokyo has plenty of hidden gems. In this article, we'll explore ten lesser-known temples and shrines that offer beauty, cultural depth, and tranquility beyond the well-trodden tourist paths. Whether you're looking for a peaceful garden stroll, a glimpse into Edo spirit, or a quiet corner to reflect, these sacred spaces are well worth the detour.
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Todoroki Fudōson
Nestled in Todoroki Valley, Todoroki Fudōson is a serene temple surrounded by flowing waters and lush cedar trees. The Fudō Myōō statue greets visitors with a stern but protecting expression, while the nearby small waterfall adds a calming background symphony. The walk down from the ravine entrance itself is an experience, revealing bamboo groves and tea houses as you go.
Access: 10–12 minutes’ walk from Todoroki Station on the Tōkyū Ōimachi Line.
Hours: Grounds open year-round; main hall typically from 9:00–17:00.
Nezu Shrine
Famous for its sprawling azalea garden and photogenic torii tunnel, Nezu Shrine has the elegance of Kyoto right in Bunkyō ward. Despite its beauty and long history (it dates back 1,900 years) Nezu Shrine has surprisingly few visitors outside the peak azalea season (early April to early May). Its vermillion bridges, old-growth trees, and reflective pond make it a perfect quiet escape just minutes from Ueno Park.
Access: 5 minutes from Nezu Station (Chiyoda Line) or Sendagi Station.
Hours: Grounds open daily; shrine office typically 9:00–17:00.
Zōjō-ji Temple
Though located near Tokyo Tower, Zōjō-ji often flies under the radar compared to its famous neighbor. As the family temple of the Tokugawa shoguns, it holds deep historical importance, and its somber wooden gate contrasts with the modern skyline around it. Its rows of child memorial statues (jizō) are lovingly adorned with pinwheels and knitted hats. Grab an iconic photo of the temple's main building with Tokyo Tower in the background!
Access: 3 minutes from Onarimon Station (Mita Line) or Shibakoen Station.
Hours: Grounds open daily; main hall from around 9:00–17:00.
Gokoku-ji Temple
Despite being just a kilometre or so away from Ikebukuro station, Gokoku-ji is quiet, elegant, and largely ignored by tourists. Its main hall is one of the only surviving original structures from the 17th century, having escaped fires, earthquakes, and war. The tranquil grounds are full of hidden paths, small sub-temples, old cemeteries, and seasonal flora - especially lovely during cherry blossom season. Try and catch early morning prayers accompanied by drumming.
Access: 5 minutes from Gokokuji Station (Yurakucho Line).
Hours: Usually open from 6:00–17:00.
Toyokawa Inari Tokyo Betsuin (Akasaka)
This relatively "new" temple (dating from 1828) is a branch of an established Buddhist temple in Aichi Prefecture is a curious blend of Buddhism and Shinto. Since it is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice and prosperity, you'll find hundreds of fox (kitsune) statues in red bibs, prayers tucked into racks, and a blend of Shinto and Buddhist elements. Though central, it's remarkably peaceful, especially on weekday mornings.
Access: 3–5 minutes’ walk from Akasaka-mitsuke or Nagatachō Stations.
Hours: Open daily, typically 8:00–18:00.
Hie Shrine
Tucked away in the otherwise non-touristy government district Nagatacho, Hie Shrine is popular with locals but not yet quite on the radars of most visitors to Tokyo. It was once the largest shrine in Edo and is home to the Sanno fstival, one of Tokyo's big three matsuri. The shrine is famous for its red torii gates and, built into a rather steep hill, even features escalators.
Access: 3–5 minutes from Akasaka-Mitsuke Station or Kokkai-Gijidō-Mae Station.
Hours: The grounds are open all year round; most shrine buildings are accessible from early morning through late afternoon (e.g., 5 am–5 pm, depending on season).
Hanazono Shrine
Right in the heart of Shinjuku, Hanazono Shrine is one of the city’s most important Inari shrines, yet it’s easy to miss among the neon lights. Come here for atmospheric night-time visits (it's illuminated after dusk) or for their lively flea markets and monthly festivals. Have your camera at the ready for the red torii lining the side path; the shrine is particularly photogenic is cherry blossom season and in November when the ginkgo trees turn yellow.
Access: 3 minutes from Shinjuku-sanchōme Station (multiple lines).
Hours: Grounds open 24 hours; office 9:00–17:00.
Tsukiji Hongan-ji Temple
With architecture inspired by ancient India and other Asian influences, Tsukiji Hongan-ji looks nothing like your typical Japanese temple. Its exterior resembles a stone palace, and inside you’ll find stained glass and even pipe organs. Located next to the old Tsukiji fish market, it’s an ideal stop before or after exploring the lively culinary district.
Access: 1 minute from Tsukiji Station (Hibiya Line).
Hours: Open daily, typically 6:00–17:00.
Fukagawa Fudō-dō
Known for its daily goma fire rituals—complete with taiko drumming, chanting, and flame offerings—Fukagawa Fudō-dō provides an immersive, multi-sensory temple experience. Visitors are allowed but the temple asks that you dress respectably (you'll also have to take your shoes off), behave accordingly (sit quietly at the back) and no photography is allowed.
Access: 2 minutes from Monzen-nakachō Station (Oedo or Tozai Lines).
Hours: Open from 9:00–17:00; goma rituals multiple times daily.
Sengaku-ji Temple
Sengaku-ji is dedicated to the 47 Rōnin, who lived and died by the samurai code of loyalty. Visitors can pay respects at the graves of the master and his retainers, view exhibits about their story, and follow the path of Japan’s most famous vendetta. The quiet surroundings make this a contemplative and stirring stop for any history lover.
Access: 1–2 minutes from Sengakuji Station (Asakusa Line).
Hours: Grounds open daily; museum 9:00–16:30.
You're never far in Japan from a little shrine or temple that will charm, surprise, delight you. When the crowds at the more popular, well-known spots start to overwhelm, step off the beaten path and let Tokyo’s quieter corners surprise you.
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