Namiyoke Inari Shrine Tokyo
A serene Shinto shrine near Tsukiji Market, famous for its guardian lions and vibrant June Lion Dance Festival.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds
Namiyoke Inari Shrine Tokyo
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Shinto shrine near Tsukiji Market, famous for its guardian lions and vibrant June Lion Dance Festival.
"A peaceful oasis with striking lion statues, perfectly paired with the culinary delights of Tsukiji."
Combine with Tsukiji Market
Visit the shrine before or after exploring the delicious food stalls at Tsukiji Outer Market. :food_bowl:
Festival Dates
Check festival dates for the Tsukiji Lion Dance Festival in June for a unique cultural experience. :calendar:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Guardian Lions
Shrine Entrance
Two colossal guardian lion statues stand guard, embodying strength and protection. A truly impressive sight!
Tsukiji Lion Dance Festival
Shrine Grounds & Tsukiji Area
Witness the vibrant annual festival where massive lion effigies are paraded through the streets. A cultural highlight!
Shrine Architecture
Main Shrine Hall
Admire the traditional Shinto architecture, a peaceful oasis amidst the city's energy.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Proximity to Tsukiji Market
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Combine with Tsukiji Market
Visit the shrine before or after exploring the delicious food stalls at Tsukiji Outer Market. :food_bowl:
Festival Dates
Check festival dates for the Tsukiji Lion Dance Festival in June for a unique cultural experience. :calendar:
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting, as it's a place of worship. :pray:
Quiet Contemplation
Take a moment for quiet reflection amidst the city bustle. :peace_symbol:
Tips
from all over the internet
Combine with Tsukiji Market
Visit the shrine before or after exploring the delicious food stalls at Tsukiji Outer Market. :food_bowl:
Festival Dates
Check festival dates for the Tsukiji Lion Dance Festival in June for a unique cultural experience. :calendar:
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting, as it's a place of worship. :pray:
Quiet Contemplation
Take a moment for quiet reflection amidst the city bustle. :peace_symbol:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Namiyoke Inari Shrine for its convenient location near Tsukiji Market and the impressive guardian lion statues. The annual Lion Dance Festival is a major draw, offering a vibrant cultural experience. Some find the shrine itself to be a brief but peaceful stop.
"Namiyoke Shrine is a small but charming Shinto shrine located just steps from the bustling Tsukiji Fish Market. Dedicated to the god Inari Okami, the shrine is believed to protect from natural disasters and bring good fortune to businesses.
The shrine is particularly known for its numerous tsuka, stone sculptures dedicated to various seafood ingredients. These range from shrimp and kelp to tamago (egg) and even eel. The most famous tsuka is the egg-shaped stone, which is said to bring good luck to those who touch it.
The atmosphere at Namiyoke Shrine is peaceful and serene, making it a welcome respite from the busy market. It's a great place to take a moment to reflect and appreciate the beauty of traditional Japanese culture."
Ry Pen
"The Namiyoke Inari Shrine is a Shinto Shrine originally built in 1657.
The name of the shrine literally translates to "protection from waves.”
After the 1923 earthquake, the shrine became the protective guardian for the workers in the nearby Tsukiji Fish Market.
I didn’t take many pictures as the “kannushi” (Shinto priest) was in the midst of prayers during my visit. There was a steady stream of people dropping by to pray while I was there."
Francine Laura
"Namiyoke Shrine is a nice shrine at the end of the fish market Main Street."
gaby guri
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Namiyoke Inari Shrine is easily accessible via public transport. The closest stations are Tsukiji Station (Hibiya Line) and Tsukijishijo Station (Oedo Line). From either station, it's a short walk to the shrine.
Yes, it's located just a block away from the famous Tsukiji Outer Market, making it a perfect stop for foodies and culture enthusiasts.
Ginza is about a 15-20 minute walk away, offering a pleasant stroll through the city if you prefer to walk. :walking:
The Hibiya Line to Tsukiji Station or the Oedo Line to Tsukijishijo Station are your best bets for direct access. :subway:
Parking is very limited in this area. It's highly recommended to use public transportation to avoid parking hassles. :car:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Namiyoke Inari Shrine is free. You can enter and explore the grounds at your leisure. :ticket:
The shrine grounds are generally open from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. Specific hours can vary, but it's typically accessible during daylight hours. :clock:
The Tsukiji Lion Dance Festival itself is free to watch, though donations are always appreciated.
Yes, the shrine is open daily, but it's busiest during special events and festivals.
Visitors are expected to be respectful of the sacred space. Avoid loud noises and dress appropriately. :pray:
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed within the shrine grounds. However, be mindful and respectful, especially during prayer times or ceremonies. :camerawithflash:
The imposing guardian lion statues at the entrance and the main shrine hall offer great photo opportunities. The vibrant atmosphere during the festival is also very photogenic.
Absolutely! The festival is a lively event, and capturing the colorful parades and energetic performances is encouraged.
While not explicitly stated, it's always good practice to avoid intrusive photography of individuals or during private ceremonies. :iphone:
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, atmospheric shots. The festival itself is a daytime event. :sunrise:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the shrine is adjacent to the Tsukiji Outer Market, which is packed with food stalls and restaurants offering fresh seafood, street food, and local delicacies.
You can find everything from sushi and sashimi to grilled seafood, tamagoyaki (rolled omelet), mochi, and various snacks.
Prices vary, but you can find affordable street food options as well as more upscale dining experiences. It's generally good value for the quality. :yen:
While seafood is dominant, you can find some vegetarian options like tamagoyaki, mochi, and various vegetable-based snacks. :broccoli:
No, eating is not permitted within the shrine grounds. Please enjoy your food in designated areas or at nearby eateries. :knifeforkplate:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If your visit coincides with the Tsukiji Lion Dance Festival in June, it's an absolute must-see for kids. The vibrant colors, music, and energetic lion dances are captivating. Keep in mind that festivals can be crowded, so holding hands and staying together is important. The shrine itself is a peaceful place for a brief moment of quiet reflection, offering a nice contrast to the market's buzz.
🍜 Foodies & Culinary Explorers
While the shrine itself is a cultural stop, its true culinary appeal lies in its location. After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere, dive into the gastronomic delights of Tsukiji. Consider trying a variety of small dishes to experience the market's diverse offerings. The proximity means you can easily enjoy a delicious meal or snack before or after your shrine visit, making it an ideal stop for a food-focused itinerary.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of Namiyoke Inari Shrine
The shrine is most famous for its annual Tsukiji Lion Dance Festival (Tsukiji Shishi-Matsuri), held in June. This vibrant event celebrates the shrine's founding and features two massive, intricately decorated lion effigies that are paraded through the streets. The festival is a lively spectacle of traditional music, dance, and community participation, drawing crowds eager to witness this unique cultural tradition.
+1Beyond the festival, Namiyoke Inari Shrine offers a peaceful respite from the urban hustle. Visitors can admire the impressive guardian lion statues at the entrance, which are symbols of protection. The shrine's architecture, though not as grand as some of Tokyo's larger temples, possesses a quiet charm and spiritual atmosphere, making it a worthwhile stop for those interested in local culture and history.
Experiencing the Tsukiji Lion Dance Festival
+1Witnessing the festival is an immersive experience. The air buzzes with the sounds of traditional music, drums, and cheers. Spectators line the streets to catch a glimpse of the elaborate lion dances, which are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune. The energy is infectious, and it's a fantastic opportunity to capture dynamic photos and videos of a unique cultural event.
To make the most of your festival visit, arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, as it can get crowded. Wear comfortable shoes as you might be doing a lot of walking. Remember to be respectful of the performers and the local community. Combining your visit with a culinary exploration of the nearby Tsukiji Outer Market before or after the parade is highly recommended.
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