Akasaka Hikawa Shrine

Map

History & Origins

The shrine is said to have been founded in 951 (the 5th year of Tenryaku). In the Edo period, the eighth shogun, Tokugawa Yoshimune, had the shrine buildings constructed, and the shrine received the patronage of the shogunate. The present main hall and worship hall date from that construction and are designated Tangible Cultural Properties of Tokyo.

Highlights

Ginkgo trees several hundred years old stand in the grounds, and in autumn their golden leaves are spectacular. As a shrine known for matchmaking, it holds distinctive rituals such as the Katashiro Nagashi (floating paper effigy) ritual. Although it lies in central Tokyo, the green grounds keep a calm and quiet atmosphere.

Visitor Guide

It is a 7-minute walk from Roppongi Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, or a 10-minute walk from Akasaka Station on the Chiyoda Line. It is well suited to combining with sightseeing in the Akasaka and Roppongi area.

Best Season

The large ginkgo trees are beautiful in autumn, with November the peak. September, when the annual festival is held, is also lively.

Blessings

Annual Events

• September

  Reisai (Annual Festival)

  The largest festival of the year, held on September 16. A portable shrine procession and dedicatory events are held, and local people gather.

Travel Plan

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