Sakura Jingu – A Japanese Shrine Dedicated To Sakura
Sakura Jingu is a Japanese Shrine dedicated to Sakura, cherry blossoms.
Located in Shinmachi, Setagaya – Tokyo, just a couple of minutes walk from Sakura-Shinmachi station.
The shrine was founded in 1882 during the Meiji era, and has stood for over a century.
Sakura Season
Sakura (cherry blossom) season is a special, albeit very brief, time of the year in Japan. Sakura only bloom for a week or so from March to April/May, depending on the region and particular species of tree.
Early Sakura blooms from early March, with the last blooms occurring around late April or early May.
During this time many Japanese people and international visitors will make a point of visiting various locations to experience the beauty of the Sakura.
Hanami
Hanami 花見, literally “flower viewing” is the traditional Japanese custom of enjoying the transient beauty of flowers, and almost always refers specifically to Sakura (cherry blossoms).
Often, Japanese friends and families will gather under the cherry blossoms for a picnic during the day. Into the evening hours, many locations particularly well known and appreciated for their cherry blossoms will feature “light-ups” where lights are used to illuminate the Sakura into the night.
Sakura Jingu
Sakura Jingu is a small neighbourhood shrine and during Sakura season it does get very busy, so it is not encouraged that one should spend too long there, but it is a beautiful spot for hanami.
The main building is noticeably old, having been founded in 1882 and fortunately surviving the bombings of Tokyo during WW2 (unlike many other shrines and temples).
Surrounded by cherry trees of the early blooming type, it is for many one of the first go-to spots during the Sakura season.
At this time of year, Sakura Jingu offers a special hand-written sakura-themed Goshuin (shrine stamp) and a delicate lace Omamori (amulet), also sakura-themed.
During this busy period visitors must first queue for prayer at the shrine, and then queue again to purchase the goshuin and omamori.
There may also be other items available such as sakura tea.
Getting There
Sakura Jingu is located in Setagaya – Tokyo, just a couple of minutes walk from Sakura-Shinmachi station on the Tōkyū Den-en-toshi line.
Depending on your start point, it may require a couple of transfers on the underground.
If you are departing from Shibuya station, you can hop straight onto the Tōkyū Den-en-toshi line, without need for any transfers.
Thank you for reading!
