Shrine · Akasaka

Akasaka Hikawa Shrine 赤坂氷川神社

A hushed, wooded shrine hidden behind Akasaka's embassies and office towers, with an original 1730 main hall commissioned by shogun Tokugawa Yoshimune and a giant ginkgo said to be some 400 years old.

About

Akasaka Hikawa Shrine feels like a secret even though it sits minutes from the Roppongi and Akasaka business districts. Its vermilion and black main hall was built in 1730 on the orders of the eighth shogun, Tokugawa Yoshimune, and has survived earthquakes, fires and wartime bombing, it is designated a Tokyo Metropolitan Tangible Cultural Property. Thick trees, a mossy approach and stone lanterns give the precinct the feel of a country shrine. The deities include Susanoo and his wife Kushinadahime, which makes it a popular place to pray for love and good marriages; the shrine runs special "en-musubi" (matchmaking) prayer events in March and July. The enormous ginkgo by the gate, estimated at around 400 years old, turns brilliant gold in late November. In September the Akasaka Hikawa Matsuri parades Edo-period-style festival floats (dashi) through Akasaka.

Highlights

• Original 1730 main hall commissioned by shogun Tokugawa Yoshimune, a Tokyo Cultural Property
• Huge ginkgo tree estimated at ~400 years old, golden in late November
• Quiet wooded grounds with mossy lanterns, minutes from Roppongi and Akasaka
• Matchmaking (en-musubi) prayers and charms, a favourite for couples and singles
• Akasaka Hikawa Matsuri in September with restored Edo-era dashi floats

Tips

• Gates open 6:00–17:30; the shrine office handles goshuin and charms 9:00–17:00.
• Approach from the south via the stone-paved Hikawa-zaka slope for the most atmospheric entrance.
• Pair it with a walk to Nogi Shrine and Tokyo Midtown, about 10 minutes away.
• Early on a weekday you may have the place nearly to yourself, ideal for photos without crowds.

Open in Google Maps · Info checked 2026-10-09

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