Setagaya Hachimangu Shrine: A Tranquil Oasis in Tokyo
Discover a serene Shinto shrine in Tokyo's Setagaya, offering a peaceful escape with cultural events, a sumo ring, and a rich history dating back to 1091.
Setagaya Hachimangu Shrine, located in the Miyasaka area of Setagaya, Tokyo, is a historic Shinto shrine offering a peaceful retreat with deep cultural roots. Founded in 1091 by Minamoto no Yoshiie, a prominent samurai, the shrine is dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war, honor, and protector of the samurai. According to legend, Yoshiie, returning from the Gosannen War, sought refuge from heavy rain in Setagaya and expressed his gratitude to Hachiman, establishing the shrine as a guardian deity of the region. Throughout the centuries, Setagaya Hachimangu has been a focal point of local culture and spirituality. In 1546, Yoriya Kira, the seventh owner of Setagaya Castle, restored and further developed the shrine. Tokugawa Ieyasu, a key figure in Japanese history and descendant of Minamoto no Yoshiie, donated land to support the shrine in 1591, highlighting the continued significance of Hachiman worship. The shrine features traditional architecture, including an impressive torii gate marking the entrance to the sacred space. The main hall showcases elegant Shinto design, and the grounds include a sumo wrestling ring (dohyo) where ritual matches are held during the autumn festival. These matches were believed to foretell the following year's harvest. Visitors can also find a pond with koi fish and turtles sunbathing on the rocks. Setagaya Hachimangu hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, offering visitors a chance to experience traditional Japanese culture. The Autumn Matsuri is a highlight, featuring hono-sumo matches, mikoshi processions, cultural performances, and food stalls. Other notable events include New Year's celebrations, the Setsubun Festival, and the Shichi-Go-San celebration. In modern times, Setagaya Hachimangu Shrine remains an active place of worship and cultural celebration. The shrine's lush grounds provide a tranquil escape from Tokyo's urban environment, attracting those seeking spiritual solace and a connection to Japanese traditions.
Local tips
- Visit during the Autumn Matsuri to witness the vibrant hono-sumo matches and cultural performances.
- Take a stroll through the shrine's lush grounds for a peaceful escape from the city.
- Explore the shrine's architecture, including the torii gate, main hall, and sumo wrestling ring.
- Combine your visit with a ride on the Tokyu Setagaya Line, one of Tokyo's last remaining tram lines.
A brief summary to Setagaya Hachimangu Shrine
- 1 Chome-26-3 Miyasaka, Setagaya City, 1 Chome Miyasaka, Tokyo, 156-0051, JP
- +813-3429-1732
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-4 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
The closest station to Setagaya Hachimangu Shrine is Miyanosaka Station on the Tokyu Setagaya Line. From Shibuya Station, take the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line to Sangenjaya Station (approx. 5 minutes, ¥120-¥180). Transfer to the Tokyu Setagaya Line and take it to Miyanosaka Station (approx. 10 minutes). The shrine is a 4-minute walk from Miyanosaka Station. The Setagaya Line Explorer Ticket, offering unlimited rides for a day, costs ¥380 for adults.
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Walking
From Miyanosaka Station on the Tokyu Setagaya Line, exit the station and walk straight ahead. Follow the road as it curves slightly to the left. You will see the shrine entrance on your right after a short walk (4 minutes). There are no costs associated with walking to the shrine.
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Taxi
From Sangenjaya Station, a taxi to Setagaya Hachimangu Shrine will cost approximately ¥1,500-¥2,000 and take around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. There are no unavoidable tolls on this route.
