Ueno Toshogu Shrine
Place
4.3 (3906 reviews)
Shinto shrine built in 17th century, tucked away in a park & decorated with carvings & gold foil.
9-88 Uenokōen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0007, Japan
+81 3-3822-3455
Did You Know?
A Shrine for a Shogun
Ueno Toshogu Shrine is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder and first shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate, who unified Japan in the early 17th century.
Survived Earthquakes and Wars
The current main hall of Ueno Toshogu was rebuilt in 1651 by Tokugawa Iemitsu, Ieyasu's grandson. Remarkably, it has survived numerous earthquakes, fires, and even the bombings of World War II, making it a testament to its sturdy construction and sacred protection.
A Garden of Beauty
The shrine boasts a beautiful Peony Garden (Botan-en) that is open during specific seasons, showcasing a stunning array of peony flowers, a symbol of good fortune and nobility in Japan.
Elaborate Gold Leaf
The main buildings of Ueno Toshogu are renowned for their elaborate and intricate gold leaf decorations, earning it the nickname 'Golden Shrine' or 'Golden Hall' among some visitors.
Highlights from Reviews
• stunning architecture
The shrine showcases breathtaking Edo-period architecture with intricate gold leaf, lacquer work, and detailed carvings, making it a visual masterpiece.
• historical significance
Dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the shrine is one of the few original structures in Tokyo that survived wars and disasters, offering a rare glimpse into Japan's past.
• peaceful atmosphere
Despite its location in Ueno Park, the shrine provides a serene and quiet space for reflection, often less crowded than other popular sites.
• beautiful lanterns
The approach to the shrine is lined with over 200 massive stone lanterns and numerous bronze lanterns, creating a majestic and atmospheric pathway.
• peony garden
The attached Botan-en (Peony Garden) is a beautiful highlight during specific seasons, featuring delicate peonies cared for in a traditional Japanese manner.
