Background

Ueno Toshogu Shrine: A Glimpse into Edo-Era Splendor

Discover a golden Edo-era shrine in Ueno Park, honoring Tokugawa Ieyasu and offering blessings for success, health, and longevity.

4.3

Nestled within Ueno Park, Ueno Toshogu Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. Built in 1627 and renovated in 1651, its golden buildings have remarkably survived centuries of earthquakes, fires, and wars, offering a rare glimpse into Edo-period architecture.

A brief summary to Ueno Toshogu Shrine

  • Monday 9 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring cherry blossom season or the autumn foliage to witness the shrine surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
  • Pay the small fee to enter the inner shrine grounds beyond the Karamon Gate for a closer view of the Honden and its intricate details.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through Ueno Park and explore its many museums, gardens, and other attractions.
  • Look for the five-storied pagoda of Kaneiji Temple, which can be seen from the Toshogu Shrine, though access is through Ueno Zoo.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Ueno Park Exit of JR Ueno Station, walk west into Ueno Park. Follow the signs towards Ueno Zoo. Ueno Toshogu Shrine is located on a secondary path to the west of the zoo's main entrance. The walk is approximately 8 minutes and is free.

  • Public Transport

    From Keisei Ueno Station, exit through the main exit and walk towards Ueno Park. Once inside the park, follow the signs towards Ueno Zoo. The shrine is about a 7-minute walk from the station. Alternatively, from Ueno Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza or Hibiya lines, take the Shinobazu Exit and walk for approximately 9 minutes to reach the shrine. Subway fare is approximately ¥200.

Unlock the Best of Ueno Toshogu Shrine

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Ueno Toshogu Shrine

Ueno Toshogu Shrine, located in Ueno Park, is a serene escape offering a journey back to the Edo period. Founded in 1627 by Tōdō Takatora, it honors Tokugawa Ieyasu, the revered founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate, which unified Japan and ushered in an era of peace and prosperity. The shrine was later renovated in 1651 by Tokugawa Iemitsu, Ieyasu's grandson. The shrine's main buildings, adorned with intricate carvings and lavish gold leaf, exemplify the architectural style of the Edo period. Miraculously, Ueno Toshogu has withstood the ravages of time, surviving the Battle of Ueno in 1868, the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, and the air raids of World War II. This resilience has earned it the designation of an Important Cultural Property, making it a precious testament to Tokyo's rich history. Visitors can stroll along the lantern-lined pathways, where stone and bronze lanterns, donated by feudal lords, create a captivating atmosphere. Beyond the Karamon Gate, for a small fee, you can admire the Honden (main hall) up close, though the interior remains closed to the public to preserve its cultural treasures. The shrine is also dedicated to the spirits of Tokugawa Yoshimune and Tokugawa Yoshinobu. Ueno Toshogu is known to grant blessings for career advancement, victory, health, and longevity. Adjacent to the shrine lies the Ueno Toshogu Peony Garden, a tranquil space showcasing vibrant blooms during specific seasons. Although the five-storied pagoda that once belonged to the shrine is now located within the Ueno Zoo, it can still be viewed from the shrine grounds.

Popular Experiences near Ueno Toshogu Shrine

Popular Hotels near Ueno Toshogu Shrine

Select Currency