Yasukuni Shrine: for quiet contemplation and historical reflection

Although not free of controversy, this shrine continues to be well-attended and hosts numerous popular festivals throughout the year. Photo: Guilhem Vellut from Annecy, France, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Step into a world of quiet contemplation and historical significance at Yasukuni Shrine (靖国神社, Yasukuni Jinja), a sprawling and serene Shinto shrine located in the heart of Tokyo's Chiyoda City. Founded by Emperor Meiji in 1869, the shrine was established to honour those who have died in war for their country. The shrine is recognised as an Imperial Shrine of Special Status and is a symbol of the ultimate sacrifices made by people to bring peace to Japan.

While it has become a place of controversy in recent years due to the enshrinement of convicted Class A war criminals from World War II, the shrine remains a deeply important site. Approximately five million people visit Yasukuni Shrine every year to pay their respects to the enshrined souls. Beyond its solemn purpose, the shrine grounds offer a peaceful, beautiful environment. It's a place where you can find moments of quiet reflection, surrounded by nature and traditional architecture. The grounds also accommodate a war-history museum, host several very colourful festivals throughout the year and are a popular cherry-blossom-viewing spot (the shrine is home to the representative tree used by meteorologists to announce the official start of the cherry blossom season in Tokyo).

Getting there – where is Yasukuni shrine?

• Nearest station: Yasukuni Shrine is a 8-10 minute (slightly uphill) walk from Kudanshita Station (九段下駅). Kudanshita Station is on the Hanzomon, Tozai, and Shinjuku subway lines. You can also reach the shrine from Ichigaya and Iidabashi stations, though the walk is a bit longer.

• By taxi: A taxi can drop you off directly near the main entrance to the shrine.

• Accessibility: Yasukuni Shrine has barrier-free access. The museum is also wheelchair accessible.

Opening hours & best time to visit

• Opening hours: The shrine is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. From November to February, it closes an hour earlier, at 5:00 PM. The museum closes at 4:30 PM, with last admission 30 minutes before closing time.

• Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon on a weekday allows for a quieter, more peaceful experience. Visit in late March / early April to see the shrine's cherry blossom garden in all its glory. The Mitama festival in mid-July is a beautiful spectacle with 30,000 lanterns, traditional performances and o-bon dancing.

• Time to avoid: The shrine can be very crowded during festivals or on weekends.

Reservations & admission

• Reservations: No reservations are needed to visit the shrine.

• Ticket/Admission Price: Admission to the shrine grounds is free. There is a fee to enter the Yushukan Museum (as at August 2025: 1000 yen for adults; subject to change).

Payment Method: No payment is required to visit the shrine grounds. For the museum, cash and credit cards are accepted.

What can you see & do at Yasukuni Shrine?

Yasukuni Shrine is a vast and historic complex with several notable sights and activities. As you enter, you'll pass under the massive Daiichi Torii, one of the tallest torii gates in Japan. The atmosphere becomes more solemn as you get closer to the main shrine buildings. The shrine hosts daily rituals and various festivals throughout the year.

• Yushukan Museum: Located on the shrine grounds, the museum exhibits historical materials and relics related to those enshrined. The museum has also come under scrutiny for its conservative and biased retelling of wartime events.

• Haiden (Main Hall): This is the central worship hall where visitors can offer prayers and pay their respects.

• Cherry Blossom Viewing: With around 500 cherry trees, the shrine is a significant spot for viewing cherry blossoms in the spring

Japansophy’s top tips!

• Be mindful: Yasukuni Shrine is a solemn place of worship, so be respectful of the enshrined spirits and the shrine itself. Unlike many other shrines, Yasukuni usually has a few "guards" stationed in front: disrespectful behaviour is not tolerated.

• Be aware of the controversy: Be aware of the political controversy surrounding the shrine. The Yushukan Museum, in particular, has a conservative perspective on history.

• Enjoy the atmosphere: The grounds themselves are peaceful and beautifully maintained, offering a tranquil escape from the city's bustle.

Facilities:

• Eating & drinking: There are two small cafés on the grounds. The path to the shrine is also sometimes lined with fast-food stalls and beer gardens.

• Toilets: Public restrooms are available on the shrine grounds.

• Baby-changing facilities: These are available in some of the multi-purpose toilets.

Other attractions nearby:

• Chidori-ga-fuchi Moat: Famous for its stunning display of cherry blossoms in the spring, which you can also appreciate from a rowboat.  

  
  

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