Shinagawa Shrine Tokyo
A beloved local shrine in Tokyo, featuring iconic vermilion torii gates and a peaceful atmosphere, offering a glimpse into Japanese spiritual life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Shinagawa Shrine Tokyo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beloved local shrine in Tokyo, featuring iconic vermilion torii gates and a peaceful atmosphere, offering a glimpse into Japanese spiritual life.
"Experience a beloved local shrine, offering a glimpse into daily spiritual life away from major tourist crowds."
🎯 Bow at the Torii Gate
Always bow before entering and after exiting the torii gate to show respect.
🚶♀️ Stick to the Sides
Walk on the sides of the main path, as the center is reserved for deities.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vermilion Torii Gates
Entrance
Walk through vibrant red torii gates, a classic symbol of Japanese shrines, offering a picturesque pathway.
Year of the Snake Significance
Hebikubo Shrine (nearby)
Discover the White Snake of Tokyo, believed to bring good luck and financial prosperity.
Local Worship Atmosphere
Main Shrine Hall
Experience a beloved local shrine, offering a glimpse into daily spiritual life away from major tourist crowds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Shrine Etiquette
Best Time for Local Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bow at the Torii Gate
Always bow before entering and after exiting the torii gate to show respect.
🚶♀️ Stick to the Sides
Walk on the sides of the main path, as the center is reserved for deities.
💰 Offer a Coin
Toss a coin into the offering box, often a 5-yen coin for good luck.
🐍 Visit Hebikubo Shrine
Don't miss the nearby Hebikubo Shrine, especially if it's the Year of the Snake!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bow at the Torii Gate
Always bow before entering and after exiting the torii gate to show respect.
🚶♀️ Stick to the Sides
Walk on the sides of the main path, as the center is reserved for deities.
💰 Offer a Coin
Toss a coin into the offering box, often a 5-yen coin for good luck.
🐍 Visit Hebikubo Shrine
Don't miss the nearby Hebikubo Shrine, especially if it's the Year of the Snake!
🚇 Easy Access
Shinagawa Shrine is conveniently located near Shinbamba Station.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Shinagawa Shrine to be a charming and accessible local spot, offering a peaceful escape with its iconic torii gates. While it's a beloved community hub, especially during holidays, some may find it less grand than major Tokyo shrines. The nearby Hebikubo Shrine adds a unique cultural element.
"One of the 100 scenic spots in Shinagawa. (#9)
Went here at 9am, no crowd, just a few people paying respects.
Nice place to visit and I was able to write my wish for 500yen. Peaceful and very relaxing, and small temple."
Cyrille Rose C. Sumadia
"This is one of the 10 shrines that make a ring around the Imperial Palace of Tokyo and known as Jyuu Jinja (10 shrines). I think the shrines offers several different attributes other than authentic Japan's shrine experience.
If you like plum blossom, there are plum trees around the vicinity, white and red. The trees around the shrine are also offering a place to sit and relax especially after climbing the stairs. There are also a roundabout way to enter the shrine. There's a hidden stair on the left side when you're climbing the main stairs, and it will offer you different views of the city.
One last thing that I like about this shrine is that if you went all the way back, you will find a stairs that going down. At the end of it you will find a small shrine but it's so lively due to the lighting and the charms. It also host a small fountain with a small dragon statue. I don't really understand the meaning, but some people are washing their money there. Intriguing...."
Rizky Novrianto
"A shrine dedicated to god of wealth Daikokuten. My first introduction to great Japanese hospitality. I walked upon the shrine, and went about the usual practice and tradition as a first timer.
After some walking around, a taxi driver had offered to walk through the steps of shrine etiquette. It’s a memory I will cherish, we didn’t exchange names but I’ll never forget that! You can pick up a memorial wooden gift from the shrine office for 300 yen."
Brandon Sims
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shinagawa Shrine is easily accessible by public transport. Take the Keikyu Line to Shinbamba Station, and it's just a short walk away. Some visitors also mention it's near Ebara Shrine.
The closest train station is Shinbamba Station on the Keikyu Line.
While it's a beloved local shrine, it's not as overrun with international tourists as some major Tokyo attractions, offering a more authentic experience.
Yes, the Shinagawa area has other notable shrines like Ebara Shrine and Hebikubo Shrine, which is known for its snake imagery.
Nearby attractions include the Musashi Koyama shopping arcade and Oimachi yokocho for local food experiences.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Shinagawa Shrine is generally free. Donations are welcome.
Shrines typically do not have strict closing hours for the grounds, but main buildings and facilities may have specific operating times. It's best to visit during daylight hours for the full experience.
To avoid crowds, visit on a weekday morning. New Year's Day is exceptionally crowded as it's a popular spot for local worshippers.
No advance booking is required for Shinagawa Shrine as it's a public place of worship.
Shinagawa Shrine is particularly busy during New Year's. Other local festivals may occur throughout the year.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed on the shrine grounds, but be respectful and avoid photographing people praying or any sacred rituals without permission.
The vermilion torii gates are a classic photo opportunity. The main shrine buildings and any seasonal decorations also make for great shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted at religious sites to maintain peace and respect. It's best to check local regulations or avoid it altogether.
Be mindful of signage and avoid intrusive photography, especially in areas where people are actively praying or participating in ceremonies.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer people, making for better photography conditions.
🎫 🙏 Onsite Experience
At the entrance, bow before passing through the torii gate. Walk on the sides of the path. At the main hall, toss a coin, ring the bell, bow twice, clap twice, and bow once more. +1
Dress respectfully. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you'll be on your feet.
Basic facilities like restrooms are usually available at larger shrines. It's always a good idea to carry water, especially during warmer months.
Hebikubo Shrine, often associated with Shinagawa, is known as the White Snake of Tokyo. Petting its head is believed to bring good luck, and washing money in its spring is thought to improve finances.
Many shrines offer omamori (amulets) and ema (votive tablets) for purchase, which make meaningful souvenirs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the prayer rituals might be a bit complex, explaining the bowing and coin-tossing can be a fun learning experience. Remember to keep the visit respectful and engaging for children, focusing on the visual aspects and simple customs.🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Take your time to soak in the atmosphere, perhaps trying a simple prayer. The nearby Musashi Koyama shopping arcade and Oimachi yokocho offer excellent opportunities to explore local food and culture independently. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The main shrine buildings offer architectural details, and the surrounding grounds can provide serene shots. Visiting during the early morning can yield fewer people and softer light, enhancing your photographic opportunities. Don't forget to explore the unique Hebikubo Shrine for its distinctive snake motifs. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Shrine Etiquette
At the main shrine building, you'll find a purification fountain (temizuya) for washing your hands and mouth. While not always mandatory for casual visitors, it's a sign of respect. The prayer ritual typically involves tossing a coin into the offering box (often a 5-yen coin, symbolizing good fortune), ringing a bell to alert the deities, bowing twice, clapping your hands twice, and then bowing once more.
The Significance of Hebikubo Shrine
Visitors often seek blessings by petting the snake's head, which is thought to bestow luck. Furthermore, the shrine features a spring where people can wash their money, a ritual intended to enhance financial prosperity.
This unique aspect makes Hebikubo Shrine a fascinating stop for those interested in local folklore and beliefs, offering a different kind of spiritual experience compared to more traditional shrines.Shinagawa as a Local Hub
For a taste of everyday Japanese commerce and culture, consider visiting the Musashi Koyama shopping arcade. This covered street is lined with a diverse array of shops, from traditional food stalls to modern boutiques.
Social
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