Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Hanazono Shrine is a historic shrine located in Shinjuku 5-chome, Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo, and is a beloved spot for locals despite being located in the heart of Shinjuku. It is said to have been founded around the Edo period, and has been rebuilt and maintained despite war damage and urbanization. Known as a shrine where people pray for prosperity in business and the safety of their families, it is particularly popular during the Tori no Ichi festival held in November, when the shrine is filled with many stalls and visitors seeking rakes.
The temple is attractive for its tranquil grounds in the city, its vermilion torii gates and shrine buildings, its lion-dog statues and lanterns, and its lively annual events.It is also close to nightlife districts like Kabukicho and Golden Gai, making it easily accessible day or night.
Highlights
- Main hall and worship hall: The vermilion-lacquered shrine building is the center of worship. Many people pray for prosperity in business and safety in their homes.
- Torii gate and temple grounds: A calm space that will make you forget the hustle and bustle of the city. Small shrines and stone lanterns are scattered around.
- Tori no Ichi (November): The temple grounds are filled with stalls selling rakes, making this the highlight of this lively annual event.
- New Year's visit: Many people visit the shrine for the New Year, and there are food stalls and queues during the New Year period.
- Local events and festivals: There are events with a strong local flavor, such as annual festivals and summer festivals.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station
- Tokyo Metro/Toei Subway "Shinjuku-sanchome Station"...approximately 1-3 minutes walk (conveniently located near the station)
- JR "Shinjuku Station (East Exit, Shinjuku 3-chome direction)"...approximately 8-12 minutes walk
- Tokyo Metro "Higashi-Shinjuku Station"...approximately 7-10 minutes walk
- Bus: Take the local bus around Shinjuku Station and then walk.
- By car: There is no large parking lot on the temple grounds, so we recommend using public transportation. Please use the paid parking lots in the surrounding area.
- Address (reference): Shinjuku 5-chome, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo (please check the official website for details)
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Regular visit: 15 to 30 minutes (including visit, fortune slip and amulet purchase)
- If you want to take photos and take your time looking around the temple grounds: 30 to 45 minutes
- When participating in events such as Tori-no-ichi or New Year's Shrine Visit: 1 to 3 hours or more (varies depending on congestion)
Nearby spots
- Shinjuku Golden Gai (food district, just a few minutes walk) — Enjoy a unique atmosphere day or night.
- Omoide Yokocho (approximately 5-10 minutes walk) — A great spot for food hopping and strolling, lined with old-fashioned drinking establishments.
- Kabukicho (walking distance) - An area with a concentration of entertainment venues and restaurants.
- Shinjuku Gyoen (walk or one stop away) — A large park where you can enjoy nature in all four seasons.
- Isetan Shinjuku and Department Store District (walking distance) - convenient for shopping and dining.
Things to be aware of (crowding, etiquette, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: Tori-no-ichi (November) and New Year's visits to shrines can be extremely crowded. We recommend using public transportation and allowing yourself plenty of time.
- Worship Manners: Please observe standard shrine etiquette, such as avoiding the center of the torii gate, purifying yourself at the water basin (if there is one), and praying with the proper ritual of two bows, two claps, and one bow.
- Photography: Photography is permitted in many places, but there may be restrictions on photography during ceremonies and inside the worship hall. Please be considerate and do not disturb other worshippers or the ceremony.
- Garbage and Smoking: Please help keep the grounds clean and refrain from smoking, eating, or drinking anywhere other than designated areas.
- COVID-19 situation: Event status and shrine office hours may change. Please check the official website or local information for the latest information before visiting.
Hanazono Shrine is a historic shrine that you can easily drop into in Shinjuku. If you stroll around the area and take in the sights around it, you'll feel like you're in another world in the city.
