Yanagi Bridge
Yanagi Bridge: A Historic Crossing in Tokyo
Torigoe Shrine: A Historical Sanctuary in Taito
Discover Torigoe Shrine in Tokyo: a historic Shinto sanctuary with vibrant festivals and unique architecture, offering a peaceful escape.
Torigoe Shrine, with a history spanning over 1300 years, is a Shinto shrine in Tokyo's Taito ward. Known for its annual festivals and unique split-level construction, it offers a serene escape from the city bustle.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Torigoe Shrine
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
2 Chome-4-1 Torigoe, Taito City, 2 Chome Torigoe, Tokyo, 111-0054, JP
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Getting There
Public Transport
From Asakusabashi Station (JR Chuo-Sobu Line or Toei Asakusa Line), Torigoe Shrine is a short walk. From the East Exit of the JR Chuo-Sobu Line, it's about an 8-minute walk. From Exit A4 of the Asakusa Subway Line, it's about a 7-minute walk. Alternatively, from Exit A1 of Kuramae Station on the Toei Asakusa Line, it's a 6-minute walk. Subway fares typically range from ¥170-¥210. A Taito City Loop Bus ('Megurin') is also available for ¥100 per ride.
Walking
From Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, walk northeast towards the Sumida River. Follow the riverbank until you reach the bridge, cross it, and make your way to Torigoe Shrine, approximately a 20-minute walk. Note that the route involves navigating city streets.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Ueno. A taxi from Ueno Station to Torigoe Shrine typically costs between ¥3200 and ¥3900 and takes about 6 minutes. The standard taxi fare in Tokyo is ¥410 for the first 1,052 meters, then ¥80 for every 237 meters. Note that there may be a 20% surcharge between 10 PM and 5 AM.
Local tips
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Visit during the Torigoe Night Festival in June to witness the impressive omikoshi parade.
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Check out the Tondo-yaki ritual on January 8th, a unique bonfire event.
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Explore the nearby Okazuyokocho shopping street for a taste of old Tokyo.
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Note the split-level construction of the shrine, a result of Edo-era land reclamation.
Discover more about Torigoe Shrine
Torigoe Shrine, located in the Torigoe neighborhood of Taito City, Tokyo, is a Shinto shrine with a rich history dating back over 1300 years. Founded in 651 A.D., the shrine was initially named Shiratori Shrine in honor of Prince Yamato Takeru no Mikoto, a legendary warrior who stayed in the area. Centuries later, Minamoto no Yoshiie, another warrior, prayed here for victory, leading to the shrine's current name, Torigoe, meaning 'bird going over'.
The shrine's unusual split-level construction is a result of land reclamation projects during the Edo period. The hill on which it stood was partially removed to provide landfill for the Shogun's rice granaries. Today, the main shrine structure is elevated on a platform, accessible by stairs at the back.
Torigoe Shrine is dedicated to Yamato Takeru no Mikoto and is known for granting general wishes. The shrine hosts monthly rituals and several annual festivals, including the Torigoe Night Festival in June, featuring a parade with a massive, lantern-lit omikoshi (portable shrine). The Tondo-yaki ritual, held on January 8th, is another significant event, involving a bonfire lit with flintstones to burn New Year's decorations.
Visitors can explore the shrine's grounds, admire the traditional architecture, and partake in Shinto rituals. The shrine is near the Asakusabashi and Kuramae districts, offering a glimpse into old Tokyo.
A brief summary to Torigoe Shrine
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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