Tokyo in Japan might be one of the cities with the most advanced technology and innovation in the whole world. But that doesn’t mean they leave their culture and historical site alone. Even now, you can see numerous Temples and Shrine that are still active and often being visited not only by the locals but also by tourists from all around the world. Each is protected and well-reserved not only for religious purposes but also for tourist destinations which have been well-known around the world.

If you ever plan to come to Tokyo and you want to know more about their culture and beliefs, then visiting Shine and their numerous temples is a must. Besides giving you more knowledge, they also offer you various unforgettable memories, and unique experiences that you hardly get anywhere else.

Here is the list of the most popular as well as the most recommended temples and shrines in Tokyo that you might want to add to your list for your next trip in Tokyo.

One of the most popular as well as the oldest temple in the city with tourists and visitors not only from locals but also from all over the world annually every year. Sensoji Temple now has become one of the most famous landmarks and has the role to preserve traditional Japanese culture and Buddhism.

If you decide to go to Sensoji Temple, the first thing you will see is the iconic Kaminarimon Gate that is decorated with a massive red lantern in the middle of the gate. Once you pass that gate, it would symbolize that you have entered one sacred space.

Inside, you will see Sensoji main hall that enshrines the statue of the God worshiped inside, Kannon, and the stunning five-storied pagoda that offers the surrounding panoramic views for free.

A Shinto Shrine once dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife that has been built since 1920, and now it has become one of the popular spots among locals and international tourists as well, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling streets of Shibuya in Tokyo.

The shrine architecture itself showcases the traditional Japanese old architecture with details and natural materials while also surrounded by the refreshing lush greenery surrounding the shrines. The entrance to the shrine is marked by the unique Meiji Jingu Gaien Mae Gate, followed by the Inner Gate.

At Meiji Jingu Gaien you can consider visiting the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery and the Meiji Memorial Hall which offer more information about Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. And once you get inside the main area, you will be able to write down your wishes and prayers on a wooden ema tablets and hang them at the designated area on the shrine

Another Shinto shrine but as the name says, it's located in the heart of Tokyo’s vibrant Asakusa district that offers a glimpse into Tokyo’s rich history as well the local traditions. The shrine itself was built in order to honor the three men for finding the sacred statue that enshrines in Sensoji Temple which is located quite nearby. And because of that honor, this shrine enshrines the three founders as the deities, and is believed to watch over the well-being and prosperity of Asakusa districts.

The shrine complex features the classic Shinto architecture with a main hall and an offering hall built from wood with incredible details. As the Stone Torii Gate that guards the shrine separating the bustling streets of Asakusa with the sacred grounds of the shrine.

There is one festival that is held every year in May at this particular shrine, which is Sanja Matsuri. This lively festival event features a parade with smaller shrines that will be brought along the streets together with traditional music and numerous street food stalls that makes that bustling and lively atmosphere of festivals.

Zojoji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Minato district that is rich in both history and tranquility. It was once the family temple of the Tokugawa Shoguns and it is said that six Tokugawa shoguns are buried inside the temple ground, including the famous Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of shogunate.

The most iconic structure about this temple is the majestic Sangedatsu Gate which has acted as the main entrance gate since 1622. This gate is actually said to be the oldest wooden structure in Tokyo which survived all the fires and earthquakes that happened in Japan. Once you get through that majestic gate, you will be welcomed into the main hall that enshrines the statue of Amida Buddha which is the central figure in Pure Land Buddhism.

There are various things that you can do inside the temple ground from strolling around the temple’s serene gardens to drawing an omikuji which is a paper fortune slip, to receive guidance and predictions for your future.

A hidden gem of Shinto shrine that is renowned for its serene atmosphere, breathtaking gardens and rich in history. The shrine is especially famous for its Azalea Garden that houses numerous stunning 3,000 plants in various colors. During late April to May, those flowers bloom beautifully making breathtaking views and inviting visitors from all over the world.

The other iconic thing that you need to visit on Nezu shrine ground is the Red Torii Gates that leads up to the hillside to the main shrine building. Walking through these beautifully made gates creates a sense of anticipation as well the feeling of being purified as you get closer to the sacred place.

The Shrine itself showcases quite the typical examples of Edo period architecture with its details, carvings, and use of natural materials like wood and copper that create the sense of harmony and respect towards nature.

Another Hidden gem of SHrine that is located inside Tokyo's Koto ward. Tomioka Hachiman Shrine is rich in history and well known as being the largest shrine dedicated to deity Hachiman in Tokyo. During your visit, you will be shown a glimpse into Japanese culture, martial arts traditions and even the surprising origin of professional sumo wrestling in Japan.

If you look into the past, this particular shrine is actually the birthplace of Kanjin-zumo, which is a form of charity sumo wrestling that emerged in1684, and since then, that tradition has been considered as the origin of modern professional sumo wrestling

Other than that, if you come at the right season, you will be able to witness the seasonal festivals that are held throughout the year, with the Fukagawa Hachiman Matsuri as the most popular one. It’s lively festival features a smallest replica of the shrine along with traditional music and festive atmosphere.

Here are all the majestic Temples and Shrine that you might want to add to your list for your next visit in Tokyo. If you would like to visit Tokyo soon, Traveloka would gladly help you in booking the flights, hotels, and numerous tourist attractions and activities mentioned above with the best price! Now, what are you waiting for? Grab yours fast where various entertainment locations are waiting to be explored!