愛宕神社~1(一の鳥居)
1 / 10

Atago Shrine Japan

4.4
·4k reviews·Minato City, Japan

Ascend the iconic 'Success Steps' at Atago Shrine for career prosperity and enjoy a serene, cozy atmosphere atop the hill.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the crowds for peace

CrowdLow
Loading map...
愛宕神社~1(一の鳥居)

Atago Shrine Japan

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the crowds for peace

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ascend the iconic 'Success Steps' at Atago Shrine for career prosperity and enjoy a serene, cozy atmosphere atop the hill.

4.4
(4k reviews)

"The stairs are 86 steps and a little steep, so you need to be careful."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Climb for Career Luck

Ascend the 86 steep steps for a career boost! An elevator is available if needed.

⏰ Office Hours

Amulet and omikuji sales are from 9 AM to 4 PM. Plan accordingly!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 'Success Steps'

The 'Success Steps'

Main entrance

Ascend the steep 86 steps for a chance at career prosperity. A true test of endurance!

Shrine's Peaceful Ambiance

Shrine's Peaceful Ambiance

Summit

Enjoy a quiet, cozy atmosphere atop the hill, perfect for reflection and prayer.

Amulets and Omikuji

Amulets and Omikuji

Office

Purchase charming amulets and fortune slips for good luck and career advancement.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Conquer the 'Success Steps'

The iconic 86-step staircase is a must-climb for career success! Take your time, as they are steep. An elevator is available for those who need it, but the challenge is part of the experience. Reddit

Best Time for Serenity

Visit during off-peak hours to truly soak in the shrine's peaceful atmosphere. Early mornings or late afternoons offer a quieter experience, allowing you to appreciate the spiritual ambiance without the crowds. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Beat the crowds for peace
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Tokyo Recommendations Thread: Temples and shrines

👟 Climb for Career Luck

Ascend the 86 steep steps for a career boost! An elevator is available if needed. Reddit

⏰ Office Hours

Amulet and omikuji sales are from 9 AM to 4 PM. Plan accordingly! Reddit

reddit.com

Tokyo recommendations thread: Temples and Shrines

🐱 Friendly Feline

You might meet a resident cat at the top, especially at night! Reddit

📜 Goshuin Collection

Hand-drawn Goshuin are available for 500 yen. A great souvenir! Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Climb for Career Luck

Ascend the 86 steep steps for a career boost! An elevator is available if needed. Reddit

⏰ Office Hours

Amulet and omikuji sales are from 9 AM to 4 PM. Plan accordingly! Reddit

🐱 Friendly Feline

You might meet a resident cat at the top, especially at night! Reddit

📜 Goshuin Collection

Hand-drawn Goshuin are available for 500 yen. A great souvenir! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Atago Shrine to be a cozy and peaceful retreat, especially appreciated for its 'Success Steps' which are believed to bring career prosperity. While the climb is steep, the availability of an elevator ensures accessibility. The shrine offers a serene atmosphere for reflection and the chance to purchase meaningful amulets and Goshuin.

"Not sure if the cozy is appropriate to describe a shrine but that's how I felt. This shrine stands atop a small elevation. It's quiet with modest foot traffic, nonetheless it's staffed and well maintained. I find shrines like this lacking in grand views but easier to soak in the atmosphere."

Jeremy YEN

"Pleasant shrine to visit while walking to Tokyo Tower. Take the 'success steps' up if you can, but there's a side-road and elevator too. A cat was waiting at the top when I visited at night."

Thomas A

"I prayed for success in job hunting.. let's wait and see 🤞🏻

The stairs are 86 steps and a little steep, so you need to be careful.

The office selling amulet and omikuji opens 09.00 - 16.00 (as of 20 June)."

Mx!! B.

What People Like

Peaceful atmosphere
Success Steps challenge
Meaningful amulets

What People Dislike

Steep stairs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Atago Shrine is accessible via public transport. The nearest stations are Kamiyacho Station (Hibiya Line) or Onarimon Station (Oedo Line). From there, it's a short walk to the shrine's base. Reddit

Parking is limited at Atago Shrine. It's recommended to use public transportation to avoid any parking hassles. Reddit

While there isn't a direct bus to the shrine's summit, several bus routes stop near the Kamiyacho or Onarimon areas, from where you can walk. Reddit

Most visitors approach from the main road to tackle the famous 'Success Steps.' However, a side road and elevator offer an alternative route to the top. Reddit

Yes, Atago Shrine is located on a hill and is generally easy to spot once you are in the vicinity. Look for the prominent staircase. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Atago Shrine itself is free. You only pay if you wish to purchase amulets, omikuji, or Goshuin. Reddit

The shrine grounds are generally accessible throughout the day. However, the office selling amulets and omikuji operates from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Reddit

The 'Success Steps' are part of the shrine and are free to climb. The challenge is part of the spiritual experience. Reddit

While the office may be closed, the shrine grounds are often accessible at night, offering a different, serene atmosphere. Some visitors have reported seeing a cat at night. Reddit

The office selling amulets and omikuji closes at 4:00 PM. Make sure to visit before then if you wish to purchase these items. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Climbing the 86 steps can take anywhere from a few minutes to longer if you take breaks. It depends on your fitness level and how much you want to savor the climb. Reddit

Climbing these steps is believed to bring good fortune and success in one's career. It's a popular ritual for those seeking professional advancement. Reddit

Basic facilities are usually available at shrines of this size, though it's always a good idea to check beforehand or use facilities before arriving. Reddit

You can pray for success, purchase amulets and omikuji, admire the shrine's architecture, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. There's also a koi fish pond. Reddit

Yes, Atago Shrine offers picturesque views, especially from the top. The 'Success Steps' themselves make for dramatic photos. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The 'Success Steps' offer a dramatic perspective, especially from the bottom looking up. The shrine's main hall and the surrounding serene grounds are also great for photos. Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed on the shrine grounds, but it's always respectful to check for any specific signage regarding interior photography. Reddit

Yes, visiting at night can offer a unique photographic opportunity with the shrine illuminated, creating a mystical ambiance. Reddit

A versatile camera that can handle both wide shots of the steps and detailed shots of the shrine architecture would be ideal. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is also sufficient. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted at religious sites in Japan to ensure peace and prevent disturbance. It's best to assume drones are not permitted. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Atago Shrine offers a unique experience for families, though the steep 'Success Steps' might be challenging for very young children or strollers. Parents can opt to use the elevator for easier access to the shrine grounds. Reddit Once at the top, the shrine offers a peaceful environment for a brief exploration and prayer. The opportunity to purchase cute amulets can also be a fun takeaway for kids. Reddit

🚶 Solo Travelers

Solo travelers will find Atago Shrine to be a perfect spot for quiet contemplation and a bit of a physical challenge. The 'Success Steps' offer a personal goal to achieve, and the serene atmosphere at the top is ideal for introspection. Reddit It's also a great place to try your luck with an omikuji (fortune slip) and perhaps pick up a unique Goshuin as a memento of your solo journey. Reddit

🙏 Spiritual Seekers

For those seeking spiritual enrichment, Atago Shrine is a must-visit. The legend of the 'Success Steps' is deeply tied to career aspirations, making it a pilgrimage site for many. Reddit The tranquil environment atop the hill provides an ideal setting for prayer and meditation, allowing visitors to connect with the shrine's spiritual energy. Don't forget to purchase an amulet for continued blessings. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of the 'Success Steps'

Atago Shrine is famously known for its steep staircase, often referred to as the 'Success Steps' (成功の階段 - Seikō no Kaidan). Legend has it that climbing these 86 steps without stopping can bring immense success in one's career. This belief draws many individuals, particularly those seeking professional advancement, to test their resolve and pray for good fortune. The climb itself is a physical challenge, with the steps being quite steep, but the reward is not just the potential for career success but also the sense of accomplishment. Reddit

While the main staircase is the most iconic route, visitors should know that an elevator is available for those who cannot or prefer not to climb. This ensures that the shrine remains accessible to everyone. The presence of both the challenging steps and the convenient elevator reflects a thoughtful approach to visitor experience, catering to different needs and preferences. Reddit

Beyond the steps, the shrine itself offers a tranquil escape. The atmosphere atop the hill is described as cozy and peaceful, providing a welcome contrast to the bustling city below. It's a place where one can reflect, pray, and soak in the spiritual ambiance. Many visitors find it a pleasant stop, especially when en route to nearby landmarks like Tokyo Tower. Reddit

Spiritual Souvenirs and Blessings

At Atago Shrine, visitors have the opportunity to purchase various spiritual items and receive blessings. The office selling amulets (omamori) and fortune slips (omikuji) is a popular spot. These items are believed to bring good luck, protection, and specific blessings, such as success in career or studies. The amulets are often beautifully crafted and make for meaningful souvenirs. Reddit

For those interested in collecting unique mementos, the shrine also offers Goshuin (御朱印). These are calligraphic seals, hand-drawn by shrine staff, that serve as a record of your visit. Each Goshuin is unique and often features the shrine's name and a special design. They are typically priced at 500 yen and are a cherished item for many temple and shrine visitors in Japan. Reddit

It's important to note the operating hours for these services. The office selling amulets and omikuji is open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Planning your visit within these hours ensures you don't miss out on acquiring these special items and blessings. Reddit

You may also like