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Yanagimori Shrine: A Tranquil Oasis in Akihabara

Discover a serene Shinto shrine near Akihabara, with a rich history and charming tanuki statues, offering a peaceful escape in bustling Tokyo.

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Yanagimori Shrine, nestled in Tokyo's Chiyoda City near Akihabara, offers a serene escape from the surrounding electronic district. Founded in 1457, this Shinto shrine provides a glimpse into Japan's rich history and spiritual traditions.

A brief summary to Yanagimori Shrine

  • Monday 7 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-5 pm
  • Friday 7 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and to enjoy the serene atmosphere.
  • Check for seasonal festivals for traditional performances and local cuisine.
  • Take time to explore the gardens, especially during cherry blossom season.
  • Purify your hands at the water basin before entering the shrine as a sign of respect.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Yanagimori Shrine is a short walk from Akihabara Station. Exit the station towards the Electric Town. Cross the Kanda River via the pedestrian bridge near the camera duty-free shop and Jonathan's restaurant. The shrine is a minute's walk from the bridge.

  • Public Transport

    From Akihabara Station, take the Hibiya Line (Grey Line) to Kodemmacho Station. Take Exit 1 and walk straight for about 500 meters, then turn left onto Kanda Sudacho. The shrine will be on your right after another 200 meters. Subway fares in Tokyo typically range from ¥180-¥330 depending on the distance.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Tokyo. A short taxi ride from Akihabara Station to Yanagimori Shrine will cost approximately ¥730 for the first 1-2 kilometers, with an additional ¥280 for each 280 meters traveled. Taxi fare from Chiyoda to Tōkyō Station is between ¥1,700–¥2,100.

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Discover more about Yanagimori Shrine

Yanagimori Shrine, also known as Yanagimori Jinja or 'Willow Forest Shrine,' stands as a peaceful contrast to the electric energy of Akihabara. Founded in 1457 by the warlord Ota Dokan, who also designed Edo Castle, the shrine was established to protect the castle's northeastern flank from bad luck. Dokan planted willow trees to ward off negative energy, hence the shrine's name. The shrine's history is intertwined with the story of Keishoin, the mother of the fifth Shogun, Tokugawa Tsunayoshi. She enshrined Fukuju-inari, a tanuki god, within Edo Castle. Later, during the Meiji Restoration in 1868, this shrine was moved to Yanagimori Shrine. Today, Yanagimori Shrine is known for its statues of tanuki, the Japanese raccoon dog, often depicted with large, stylized scrotums, symbolizing luck and prosperity. The small compound comprises seven shrines, including the main Honden shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice, fertility, and commerce. Stone foxes guard the Honden, one holding a ball representing the soul and the other with a cub, signifying children. The Fukujujin Shrine honors the tanuki god and is visited by those seeking good fortune. Visitors can participate in traditional rituals, purify themselves at the water basin, and offer prayers. The shrine's gardens offer a tranquil retreat, especially during cherry blossom season.

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