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A shrine dedicated to the spirits of those who sacrificed their lives for the country.
The shrine was founded in 1869 by Emperor Meiji with the aim of comforting and memorializing the spirits of those who had given their lives for the nation in the turbulent times of the Meiji Restoration. The shrine's name, "Yasukuni," is imbued with a wish for the establishment of a peaceful nation.
Upon entering Yasukuni Shrine from Kudanshita Station on the Tokyo Metro Line, the first thing you see is the magnificent "Daiichi Torii (First Shinto Shrine Arch)," which stands 25 meters tall. It was built in 1921 as the "largest torii gate in Japan," but was removed in 1943 due to damage from years of wind and rain, and then rebuilt in 1974.
As you walk along the shrine's approach, take in all there is to see, from the " Statue of Omura Masujiro", Tokyo's first Western-style bronze statue, and the "Daini Torii (Second Shinto Shrine Arch)," which boasts the largest size of any bronze torii gate in Japan. Steal your heart away in the solemn atmosphere sat over the main hall, and the Honden (Main Sanctuary).
To the right of the Haiden (Main Hall) is the "Yushukan," which displays valuable historical materials such as the sacred documents and artifacts of the deities worshipped, as well as a Zero fighter plane. Behind the Honden (Main Sanctuary) is the "Shinchi Teien," a strolling-style garden built in the early Meiji period. The shrine is not only a place of worship but also a place where you can see, feel, and learn about Japanese history.
Yasukuni Shrine is also known as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot, as well as for its numerous festivals and events like "Spring Festival" in April, the "Mitama Festival" in July, and the "Autumn Festival" in October.
The Haiden (Main Hall) where general visitors offer prayers
You can offer formal prayers at the Honden (Main Sanctuary)
The "Daiichi Torii (First Shinto Shrine Arch)," standing 25 meters tall and with a commanding presence
The Yushukan, which houses a collection of valuable war materials and weapons (admission fee required)
One of Tokyo's finest gardens, the Shinchi Teien
In spring, 500 cherry trees bloom and color the grounds.
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have pamphlets in other languages? (If so, please also inform us of the supported languages)
English, Simplified Chinese and Korean are available.
Q
Do you have shrine’s red ink stamps?
Yes, we do. In addition to the regular shrine stamp, we also offer a seasonal embroidered stamp.
Q
Is there a parking lot?
Yes, we have parking for 70 vehicles (300 yen per 30 minutes). Please use public transportation during event periods.
Some reviews are AI-translated.
Yasukuni Shrine is definitely controversial, but putting that aside, it's worth a visit. There's a pond, a sumo ring, and various statues. Some areas are under renovation, but it doesn't really affect your visit. There's also a museum nearby—the ground floor is free to enter, and on the first floor, you can see planes, a stamp exhibition, and a shop.
