Hikawa Shrine Shibuya
Shibuya's oldest shrine, offering a serene natural escape and unique love prayer ceremonies amidst the city's vibrant energy.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Hikawa Shrine Shibuya
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Shibuya's oldest shrine, offering a serene natural escape and unique love prayer ceremonies amidst the city's vibrant energy.
"A small temple, as the oldest temple in Shibuya area, would be a good place to visit."
🚶♀️ Walk from Shibuya Station
It's a bit of a walk from Shibuya Station, so wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
💖 Seeking Love?
They hold special ceremonies for love prayers; be prepared for potential queues. :heart:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Serene Shrine Grounds
Main shrine area
A tranquil oasis amidst Tokyo's hustle. Enjoy the lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere.
Love Prayer Ceremony
Main shrine building
A special ceremony for those seeking love, attracting many visitors.
Ancient Trees and Nature
Surrounding shrine area
Experience a natural setting with large, old trees, a refreshing contrast to the city.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape the Shibuya Buzz
Discover Shibuya's Oldest Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
What to do in Shibuya after the Scramble?
🚶♀️ Walk from Shibuya Station
It's a bit of a walk from Shibuya Station, so wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
💖 Seeking Love?
They hold special ceremonies for love prayers; be prepared for potential queues. :heart:
Full day in Shibuya
Things to do near Shibuya Crossing
🌳 Nature Escape
Enjoy the unexpected natural beauty and old trees, a calm spot in the city. :evergreen_tree:
Japan Newbies... Shibuya Suggestions
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk from Shibuya Station
It's a bit of a walk from Shibuya Station, so wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
💖 Seeking Love?
They hold special ceremonies for love prayers; be prepared for potential queues. :heart:
🌳 Nature Escape
Enjoy the unexpected natural beauty and old trees, a calm spot in the city. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Hikawa Shrine to be a surprisingly peaceful and beautiful escape from the bustling Shibuya district. Its status as the oldest shrine in the area adds historical charm, and many appreciate the natural setting with its ancient trees. While small, it offers a tranquil experience and a unique opportunity to witness local spiritual practices, particularly the popular love prayer ceremony.
"I just read a pop-up post from FB one day when I was planning my 1st Japan trip ever to Tokyo. Knew that the temple will be open special on 15th.
Tho a small temple, as the oldest temple in Shibuya area, would be a good place to visit. They have a special ceremony for whoever is seeking/praying for love, so many ladies were there and even need draw if too many people require to enter."
Julia Hui
"Local shrine for Hiro and Shibuya area people who reside or work in this area come to pray for wellness and good fortune in their personal and professional lives. A very natural setting surrounded by trees nice escape from the concrete jungle."
damienintl
"Stumbled upon this shrine totally randomly on walk but we enjoyed the beauty of it"
Borian D
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hikawa Shrine is a bit of a walk from Shibuya Station, approximately 10-15 minutes. Head out of the Hachiko exit and follow signs towards the shrine. Wear comfortable shoes as it involves some walking.
Yes, it's accessible by walking from Shibuya Station. The nearest train stations are Shibuya Station (JR, Keio, Tokyu, Tokyo Metro lines) and Shinsen Station (Keio Inokashira Line), but a walk is still required from both.
While there aren't typically street food carts directly at the shrine, the surrounding Shibuya area has many shops and restaurants offering various food options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Hikawa Shrine is free to enter. You can explore the grounds and main shrine building without any admission fee.
The shrine grounds are generally open during daylight hours. Specific ceremony times may vary, so it's best to visit during the day for a peaceful experience.
Hikawa Shrine is open daily. However, they may have special ceremonies on certain dates, which can attract more visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed on the shrine grounds for personal use. Please be respectful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography, especially during ceremonies.
The main shrine building, the ancient trees, and the serene pathways offer beautiful photo opportunities. The atmosphere is particularly photogenic during quieter times.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the shrine is a place of worship, so encourage children to be respectful. The walk from Shibuya Station is manageable, but ensure little ones are prepared for a stroll. It's a chance to introduce them to a different aspect of Japanese culture away from the usual tourist crowds.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Explorers
As it's a bit of a walk from the main Shibuya thoroughfare, it feels like a discovery. The unique love prayer ceremony also offers an interesting cultural observation. It’s a great addition to a Shibuya itinerary for those who appreciate local shrines and a touch of serenity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Shibuya's History
This shrine is a local sanctuary, frequented by residents and workers seeking blessings for wellness and good fortune in both their personal and professional lives. The presence of large, old trees surrounding the shrine grounds further enhances its natural charm and provides a sense of enduring peace. It's a place where one can step back in time and appreciate a quieter side of Tokyo.
The Unique Love Prayer Ceremony
This unique offering sets Hikawa Shrine apart and adds a distinct cultural experience for those interested in local spiritual practices. It highlights the shrine's role not just as a historical site, but as an active place of worship with specific traditions that resonate with contemporary desires. Experiencing this ceremony, or even just observing the devotion of others, can be a memorable part of a visit.
Social
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