Akasaka Hikawa Shrine, Tokyo - A shrine in the Kajiya district of Yugawara.
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Akasaka Hikawa Shrine Tokyo

4.4
·3k reviews·Minato City, Japan

A serene Shinto shrine dating back to 1730, known for its ancient ginkgo tree and unique cherry blossom fortunes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Akasaka Hikawa Shrine, Tokyo - A shrine in the Kajiya district of Yugawara.

Akasaka Hikawa Shrine Tokyo

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene Shinto shrine dating back to 1730, known for its ancient ginkgo tree and unique cherry blossom fortunes.

4.4
(3k reviews)

"A peaceful oasis with a majestic ancient ginkgo tree and charming cherry blossom omikuji."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Shrine Etiquette Basics

Bow before the torii gate & walk on the sides, not the center path.

🌸 Unique Omikuji Experience

Try the cherry blossom-themed omikuji for a fun fortune-telling experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Ginkgo Tree

Ancient Ginkgo Tree

Shrine grounds

A majestic, centuries-old ginkgo tree stands as a silent guardian, offering shade and a sense of timelessness.

Cherry Blossom Omikuji

Cherry Blossom Omikuji

Fortune-telling area

Experience a unique twist on fortune-telling with charming cherry blossom-themed omikuji (fortunes).

Red-Brown Shrine Architecture

Red-Brown Shrine Architecture

Main shrine building

Admire the traditional Shinto architecture, characterized by its striking red-brown hues and intricate details.

Planning Your Visit

Respectful Shrine Etiquette

Learn the proper way to enter and behave at Akasaka Hikawa Shrine. Avoid walking in the center path, which is reserved for deities, and always bow before passing through the torii gate. Understanding these customs ensures a respectful visit. TikTok

Best Time for Photos

Visit during quieter hours to capture the serene beauty of the shrine and its ancient ginkgo tree. Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, perfect for photography enthusiasts. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

NEVER do this at Japanese shrines! Seriously... 🛑⛩️ Most tourists visit shrines in Japan without knowing these essential rules of respect. I’m sharing these sacred shrine etiquette tips that Japanese ...
@luxuwell.japan
474K likes • 3.7M views

🎯 Shrine Etiquette Basics

Bow before the torii gate & walk on the sides, not the center path. TikTok

🌸 Unique Omikuji Experience

Try the cherry blossom-themed omikuji for a fun fortune-telling experience. Instagram

Akasaka Hikawa Shrine. Landmark Shinto site built in 1730, featuring a red-brown shrine & a large, ancient ginkgo tree. 6 Chome-10-12 Akasaka, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0052
enriquedominguez274
50 likes • 431 views
📍Akasaka Hikawa Shrine, Tokyo Roppongi Did you know this unique shrine with cherry 🍒 Omikuji?☺️ After you pick up an Omikuji and read your fortune telling and the advice on the paper, you could tie...
ramune_in_tokyo
1.3K likes • 26.3K views

📸 Capture the Ginkgo Tree

The ancient ginkgo tree is a stunning photo opportunity, especially in autumn. Instagram

🏮 Hikawa Festival Vibes

If visiting in summer, catch the lively Hikawa Festival with food stalls and Bon Odori. Instagram

⭐️⸜( ◜࿁◝ ⸝︎︎ I still get Akasaka and Asakusa mixed up all the time. 📍Places featured in video: ⛩️ Nogi Shrine / 乃木神社 ☕️ @hacienda_coffee_ 🏮 Akasaka Hikawa Shrine / 氷川神社 🍜 Nurungji / ヌルンジ赤坂店 ॱ⋅.˳˳.⋅˙...
blindsaayintokyo
869 likes • 26K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Shrine Etiquette Basics

Bow before the torii gate & walk on the sides, not the center path. TikTok

🌸 Unique Omikuji Experience

Try the cherry blossom-themed omikuji for a fun fortune-telling experience. Instagram

📸 Capture the Ginkgo Tree

The ancient ginkgo tree is a stunning photo opportunity, especially in autumn. Instagram

🏮 Hikawa Festival Vibes

If visiting in summer, catch the lively Hikawa Festival with food stalls and Bon Odori. Instagram

📍 Location Clarity

Don't confuse Akasaka Hikawa Shrine with Asakusa! They are different locations. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.4
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Akasaka Hikawa Shrine for its serene atmosphere, the impressive ancient ginkgo tree, and the unique cherry blossom omikuji. It's considered a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle, offering a glimpse into traditional Japanese culture. Some find it a bit small, but its charm lies in its quiet beauty and historical significance.

"It's a beautiful shrine. Quiet and solemn. We had a wonderful time here but we visited at night time. The lighting was nice and we had a good stroll 😊"

Dianne Rodriguez

"Great beautiful place to visit and pray for good health!

From the website;
Akasaka Hikawa Shrine has been in existence for over 1,000 years and is a place of strong faith for protection from misfortune and for finding love. The main shrine, built by Tokugawa Yoshimune, has survived numerous earthquakes and war damage and remains in its original form to this day. Within the lush grounds, there are torii gates, lion-dog statues, and lanterns engraved with the Edo era names, and the shrine is a rare sight in Tokyo that still retains many scenes from the Edo period."

KIICHIRO KOBORI

"Quiet in the middle of the city shrine. I came at the opening time which was very quiet on Sunday and I appreciated the fact that I was salone and I was able to see everything without having to deal with other people. Just a beautiful quiet shrine within the city, which was a perfect way to spend a Sunday."

MH Apin

What People Like

Peaceful atmosphere
Ancient ginkgo tree
Unique omikuji

What People Dislike

Can be small

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Akasaka Hikawa Shrine is easily accessible by public transport. The nearest stations are Akasaka Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line) and Akasaka-mitsuke Station (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi and Ginza Lines). From either station, it's a short walk to the shrine. Instagram

Yes, Akasaka Hikawa Shrine is located in the Akasaka district, which is adjacent to Roppongi. It's a convenient stop if you're exploring the Roppongi area. Instagram

From Shibuya, take the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line to Akasaka-mitsuke Station. The journey is direct and takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Instagram

While driving is possible, parking in the Akasaka area can be challenging and expensive. Public transportation is generally recommended for ease of access. Instagram

Many hotels in the Akasaka and Roppongi areas are within walking distance, making it a convenient destination for a morning or evening stroll. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Akasaka Hikawa Shrine is free to enter. You can explore the grounds and admire the architecture without any admission cost. Instagram

The shrine grounds are generally open from early morning until dusk. Specific building hours may vary, but the outdoor areas are accessible throughout daylight hours. Instagram

Yes, you can purchase omikuji at Akasaka Hikawa Shrine. They offer a unique cherry blossom-themed option for a fun experience. Instagram

Absolutely! The Hikawa Festival, held in the summer, is a vibrant event with a night market and Bon Odori dance. Instagram

While the grounds are generally accessible, it's respectful to avoid visiting very early in the morning or late at night when the shrine is likely closed or being prepared for the next day. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The ancient ginkgo tree is a prime subject, especially during autumn. The red-brown shrine buildings and the torii gates also make for beautiful shots. Instagram

Photography is generally permitted on the shrine grounds, but it's always best to be discreet and respectful. Check for any posted signs regarding photography inside specific structures. Instagram

Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer, more flattering light, minimizing harsh shadows and reducing crowds for a more serene photographic experience. Instagram

The cherry blossom-themed omikuji offers a charming and unique photo opportunity, capturing a blend of tradition and seasonal beauty. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted at religious sites in Japan to ensure the peace and safety of visitors. It's advisable to avoid flying drones here. TikTok

🎫 ⛩️ Onsite Experience

The ancient ginkgo tree is a prominent natural landmark at the shrine, symbolizing longevity and resilience. It's a focal point for visitors and adds to the shrine's serene atmosphere. Instagram

Key etiquette includes bowing before the torii gate, walking on the sides of the path (not the center), and purifying your hands and mouth at the temizuya before approaching the main hall. TikTok

Yes, after reading your fortune, you can tie your omikuji onto designated racks or branches, often as a way to leave behind bad luck or to express wishes. Instagram

While it's a recognized landmark, it's often less crowded than major tourist shrines, offering a more tranquil experience that appeals to both locals and visitors seeking peace. Instagram

The shrine offers a peaceful and spiritual ambiance, enhanced by its historical architecture and the presence of the ancient ginkgo tree. It's a great escape from the city bustle. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Akasaka Hikawa Shrine offers a peaceful and educational outing for families. The spacious grounds provide room for children to explore, and the ancient ginkgo tree is a fascinating natural wonder for them to marvel at. Instagram

The unique cherry blossom omikuji can be a fun activity for kids, adding an element of surprise and engagement to their visit. Remember to teach them about respectful shrine etiquette, such as bowing and walking on the sides of the path, turning it into a learning experience about Japanese culture. TikTokInstagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Akasaka Hikawa Shrine presents several compelling subjects. The striking red-brown architecture of the shrine buildings, the majestic ancient ginkgo tree (especially vibrant in autumn), and the traditional torii gates offer diverse photographic opportunities. Instagram

Visiting during the 'golden hour' in the early morning or late afternoon will provide soft, flattering light and fewer crowds, allowing for more creative shots. The unique cherry blossom omikuji can also make for interesting detail shots. Instagram

🚶 Solo Travelers

Akasaka Hikawa Shrine is an ideal destination for solo travelers seeking a moment of peace and cultural immersion. Its relatively tranquil atmosphere allows for quiet reflection and a chance to absorb the spiritual ambiance without feeling overwhelmed by crowds. Instagram

Take your time to appreciate the historical architecture, the ancient ginkgo tree, and practice the respectful shrine etiquette. It's a perfect spot to recharge and experience a slice of traditional Tokyo away from the usual tourist hotspots. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding Shrine Etiquette

Visiting Japanese shrines like Akasaka Hikawa Shrine involves a set of respectful customs that enhance the spiritual experience. Before entering the shrine grounds, you'll encounter the torii gate. It's customary to bow slightly before passing through it, acknowledging the sacred space you are entering. TikTok

Once inside, you'll notice a central path leading to the main shrine building. This path is traditionally reserved for deities, so visitors are encouraged to walk along the sides. This simple act shows reverence and respect for the spiritual nature of the shrine. TikTok

Another important ritual is purification at the temizuya (water basin). Here, you'll use a ladle to rinse your hands and mouth before approaching the main hall. This practice symbolizes cleansing oneself spiritually before offering prayers or making a wish. Following these guidelines ensures a meaningful and respectful visit. TikTok

The Significance of the Ancient Ginkgo Tree

One of the most striking features of Akasaka Hikawa Shrine is its magnificent, ancient ginkgo tree. This venerable tree has stood on the shrine grounds for centuries, witnessing the passage of time and the unfolding of history. Its presence adds a profound sense of tranquility and natural beauty to the sacred site. Instagram

Ginkgo trees are often associated with longevity, resilience, and hope in Japanese culture. The sheer size and age of the tree at Akasaka Hikawa Shrine make it a focal point, drawing visitors who appreciate its majestic stature and the peaceful aura it emanates. It's a perfect spot for quiet contemplation and a reminder of nature's enduring power. Instagram

During autumn, the ginkgo tree transforms into a breathtaking spectacle as its leaves turn a vibrant golden yellow. This seasonal display makes the shrine particularly enchanting during the fall months, offering a stunning backdrop for photographs and a memorable experience for visitors. Instagram

Unique Omikuji Experiences

Akasaka Hikawa Shrine offers a delightful twist on the traditional Japanese fortune-telling practice with its unique cherry blossom-themed omikuji. These fortunes are not only a way to receive guidance or predictions but also serve as charming souvenirs. Instagram

After purchasing an omikuji, you'll read your fortune and any advice provided on the paper. It's customary to then tie the omikuji onto designated racks or branches within the shrine grounds. This act is believed to either leave behind bad luck or to solidify your wishes and aspirations. Instagram

The cherry blossom motif adds a touch of seasonal beauty and whimsy to the experience, making it a memorable part of your visit. It's a simple yet engaging activity that connects you with the cultural practices of Japan. Instagram

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