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ikigaivoyage

The Most Unique Shrines and Temples in Tokyo and Kanagawa

Updated: Jul 3

One of the most popular things to do in Japan is to visit a famous shrine or temple, and you're bound to walk past a few pretty much anywhere you are. Here is a list of the most unique and interesting shrines we've come across in Tokyo (and Kanagawa)


fox statues at Keihin Fushimi Inari shrine

1. Keihin Fushimi Inari Shrine (京濱伏見稲荷神社) in Kanagawa Keihin Fushimi Inari Shrine is home to 108 kitsune (fox) statues! In the Shinto religion, "inari" is a god that is connected to rice, sake, and tea. The significance of the kitsune, are to protect the rice, which is a staple food in Japanese society.




onigiri emas at a Japanese shrine

Located about a 15 minute walk from Tokyo Skytree is Takagi Shrine, a quirky onigiri-themed shrine that also pays tribute to Takagi San, a character in the manga series 'Teasing Master Takagi-san'.





maneki Neko

Gotokuji Temple is said to be the birthplace of "maneki neko" (luck-inviting cat or beckoning cat) and is home to dozens of them! It's a very popular destination for both tourists and locals because of its charm and uniqueness. You can also buy your own maneki neko to take home!





An iconic shrine located near the Tama River, known for its association with the Godzilla franchise.








A Buddhist temple in Hachioji, Tokyo that was established in 1489 by Keiun Nicchō (啓運日澄) for his retirement. Although it's operations and architecture are what you would expect of a traditional Japanese temple, in 2009 a non-traditional signboard was installed with anime illustrations of Shinto and Buddhist deities, and the enshrined Shingo Benzaiten (新護弁財天) was given a modern anime look, in an attempt to create a more exciting atmosphere. In 2010 a theme song was released for Ryōhō-ji titled 'Tera zukkyun! Ai no Ryōhō-ji!' (寺ズッキュン!愛の了法寺!).

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1 Comment


anncee99
Apr 29

this is a great resource!

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