Unveiling the enchanting oasis of Nezu Shrine in Tokyo

In the heart of Tokyo's criss-cross network of metro lines, towering skyscrapers and nonstop on-the-go streets, lies a sanctuary that transports you to a realm of tranquillity, history, and spiritual wonder. Welcome to Nezu Shrine, a hidden gem that stands as a testament to Japan's rich cultural heritage and profound connection with the divine. Nestled within the Bunkyo ward, near the charming Yanaka neighbourhood, Nezu Shrine beckons with its vibrant red torii gate path, lush gardens, and centuries-old traditions. Curious? Follow me on Instagram and YouTube for more adventures!

As I stepped through the vermilion torii gates that guide my way, I was enveloped in a sense of reverence and awe. Nezu Shrine, with its roots tracing back over a thousand years, carries the weight of history and mythology, offering me a glimpse into the ancient beliefs and stories that have shaped Japan's identity. This sacred haven is dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto, a powerful deity of nature and storms, whose presence can be felt amidst the peaceful serenity that envelops the shrine.

But Nezu Shrine is more than just a place of worship; it is a living canvas that paints a vivid picture of Japan's past and present. Here, you can wander through its meticulously maintained grounds, and you'll discover an azalea garden that bursts into a kaleidoscope of colours during the celebrated Azalea Festival. Each time I visit Nezu Shrine, I simply just marvel at the architectural thoughtfulness of the main hall, where you can see how its an embodiment of classic Shinto design that holds within its walls a history of resilience and restoration.

Yet, Nezu Shrine is not bound by its history alone; it pulses with life and energy through its festivals, events, and the vibrant community that gathers within its embrace. The annual Nezu Shrine Festival ushers in a flurry of activity, as mikoshi (portable shrines) dance through the streets, music fills the air, and the air is charged with the palpable spirit of celebration.

This is the year that I had packed up my belongings and moved to Tokyo. I am lucky that I am able to go wherever I please, as my job is fully remote. But living in Tokyo is another story - it’s one of wonder, excitement, and indulgence, but also one where sometimes getting some quiet solace its tricky in a city where 14 million people are jammed packed together. When I first discovered Nezu Shrine, I felt like I was finally given a space to breathe and have a moment in this megatropolis. I’m sure a lot of my fellow local Tokyoite feels the same when the walk along the torii gate path or watching the koi swim in the ponds of Nezu. 

The architecture here was built with peace in mind. For example, one of Nezu Shrine's most striking features is its torii gate pathway. The pathway is adorned with hundreds of vermilion torii gates that create a picturesque tunnel-like effect. Walking through this torii gate tunnel is a mesmerizing experience, especially when the sunlight filters through between each red gate. Then you also have the shrine's main hall (honden), which showcases classic Shinto architecture with a thatched roof and intricate wooden carvings. The surrounding structures, including the treasure hall and worship halls, exhibit the elegance and traditional aesthetics of Japanese shrine architecture.

After all, Nezu Shrine has a history dating back over a thousand years, believed to have been established in the early Heian Period (approximately 9th century). It was originally founded in a different location and was later moved to its current site in the 17th century. 

Now if you’re lucky to be here in the spring, Nezu Shrine is renowned for its azalea garden, which comes alive after the sakura season with vibrant colours. During the Azalea Festival (Tsutsuji Matsuri) held in April, the garden becomes a sea of pink and purple blossoms, attracting visitors from far and wide. This annual event is a delightful celebration of nature's beauty and is accompanied by various festivities.

On that note, Nezu Shrine hosts several festivals and events throughout the year. One of the most famous is the Nezu Shrine Festival (Nezu Jinja Reitaisai), also held in early April. This festival features a grand procession of portable shrines (mikoshi), traditional performances, and rituals. It's a lively and festive occasion that allows visitors to experience the vibrant spirit of a Japanese shrine festival.

Whether you are seeking solace and reflection like when I sought to take a break from living in Tokyo’s hustle culture, or you are yearning to witness the breathtaking beauty of nature in bloom, or simply curious to explore the heart of Tokyo's spiritual landscape, Nezu Shrine promises an experience that transcends time near Yanaka. So, let your footsteps echo through the torii gates, let your heart be moved by the reverence of centuries, and let the enchanting world of Nezu Shrine unfold before you, revealing like an unbound cloth of culture, mythology, and spirituality that is uniquely and profoundly Japanese.

Nezu Shrine

1-chōme-28-9 Nezu, Bunkyo City, Tokyo 113-0031, Japan