Hanazono Shrine — Attraction in Tokyo

Hanazono Shrine 花園神社, Hanazono Jinja in Japanese, is a large, ancient Shinto shrine in the very heart of Tokyo's Shinjuku district. It is considered the most important shrine of Shinjuku, the shrine guarding the area, its inhabitants, merchants, craftsmen and artists. Though surrounded by modern buildings, the shrine itself is quiet and serene. Its main building, the honden, stands on top of a stone staircase, overlooking the small wooded park belonging to the shrine. It is quiet and serene on most days of the year. However, the shrine features several large festivals during the course of the year, on those days expect big crowds on the grounds. The shrine is also very popular during the sakura cherry blossom season in late March / early April due to its many cherry trees. In the evening, the shrine is colorfully lit up and invites a romantic stroll. The origins of the shrine are unknown. It is known, however, that the shrine already existed in 1590, when Ieyasu Tokugawa took over Edo, today's Tokyo. Soon after, in 1603, Ieyasu established Edo as the capital of Japan, ushering in the Edo Era (1603-1868). At that time, the shrine was at a slightly different location, however, on the grounds now occupied by the Isetan Department Store. Located only a few minutes on foot from Shinjuku Station on the Yamanote Line and the Kabukicho entertainment district, the shrine is somewhat hidden behind buildings lining Yasukuni Dori Avenue. Take the East Exit of Shinjuku Station, walk towards Kabukicho. On Yasukuni Avenue, turn right and walk towards Shinjuku 2-chome (Tokyo's gay quarter). After about a two minute walk, you will see a small alley to your left, framed by a stone torii gate. It is located between a Family Mart convenience store and the Tsukiji Sushiko sushi restaurant. Enter the tree-lined alley. It will lead you right into the center of Hanazono Shrine. Alternatively, enter the shrine through its big red torii gate from Meiji...

First time visiting Hanazono Shrine!

For some reason, I felt drawn to this place after we arrived in Shinjuku. On the day of our first visit, there was scaffolding and workmen hanging lanterns in preparation for Ichi no Tori Festival in November.

Since this is a sacred place where local residents pray before they go to work, please make sure to observe respectful demeanor (i.e. no running or yelling, no eating and sitting on shrine steps, no loitering on shrine steps, or loud obnoxious behaviors, no drone flying). If you don't know anything about Shinto Shrine etiquette, just observe the local residents praying and copy their behaviors.

I took some pictures of the torii gates and architectural details on the doors and roofs. I did not take photos of the main sanctuary as this is poor etiquette.

Then I went and prayed at the main sanctuary area (gently drop money [around 5yen or 10yen] into the collection chest, ring bell, bow twice (90 degree angle), clap hands, pray, then bow (90 degree angle) once to finish).

After that, I went to their Amulet Office (Juyosho) to purchase an Omamori, Kitsunemikuji (fox omikuji), and a Goshuin stamp to commemorate my visit. They offer beautiful Goshuin stamps (kiri-e Goshuin) and Kaki-Oki Goshuin (loose leaf to put in your Goshuin book later).

We went back again the day before our departure to give thanks that we had a fun trip and a nice stay in Shinjuku. We got another Kichi (Luck) omikuji from the fox and tied it at the Shrine.

I'll be back again on...

Hanazono Shrine – A cultural gem in the heart of Shinjuku Hanazono Shrine is one of Shinjuku’s most historic Shinto shrines, dedicated to the Inari deity — the protector of fertility, prosperity, and business success. It’s been part of Tokyo’s history since the Edo period, and even though it’s surrounded by tall buildings, it feels like stepping into another world.

The shrine is best known for its Tori-no-Ichi Festival every November, when hundreds of lanterns light up the grounds and vendors sell beautifully decorated rakes (kumade) to bring good luck. But even outside the festival season, it’s worth visiting for its peaceful atmosphere and fascinating traditions.

During my visit, I discovered something unexpected: a discreet area with a phallic symbol — yes, you read that right. My friend pointed it out, and I was honestly surprised! This is connected to fertility prayers, and many men visit to pray for family, children, and sometimes even “strength” in both personal and business life. It’s an interesting mix of sacred meaning and playful symbolism that you’ll occasionally find in Japanese culture.

Tips for visitors:

Come early in the morning for a calmer atmosphere.

If you’re in Tokyo in November, don’t miss the Tori-no-Ichi Festival.

Take time to walk around the grounds — there are smaller shrines and details that are easy to miss.

Whether you’re interested in history, spirituality, or just love discovering unique traditions, Hanazono Shrine is worth a stop when...