Explore Tokyo’s sacred places with Delta

Home to more than 4,000 Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, Japan is deeply steeped in historic spiritual traditions. Within an hour of Haneda Airport, travelers can explore Tokyo’s diverse sacred sites that blend historical significance with contemporary culture. Learn more about three of the city’s most iconic shrines, popular among locals and visitors. 

ASAKUSA SHRINE

Located in Tokyo’s Taito ward, Asakusa Shrine —affectionately known as "Sanja-sama"—is a beloved cultural landmark and National Important Cultural Property. Together with the adjacent Sensō-ji, it forms the heart of Asakusa’s historic district.

Asakusa Shrine traces its origins back to the Heian period (794–1185), and its current shrine building, constructed by Tokugawa Iemitsu during the Edo period in 1649. Each May, the shrine hosts the Sanja Matsuri, one of Tokyo’s largest festivals. Over the course of three days, the streets come alive with a dynamic procession of mikoshi (portable shrines), offering visitors a chance to experience the vibrance of a traditional Japanese festival.

For English-speaking visitors, Asakusa Shrine provides translated Goshuin (red seal stamps) and cultural experience tours, making it easy to engage with local traditions. One immersive, popular activity is exploring Asakusa in a rented kimono. 

MEIJI JINGU SHRINE

Located in Tokyo’s Shibuya district, Meiji Jingu Shrine was built in 1920 to honor Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Nestled within a lush, man-made forest spanning over 430 miles, the shrine offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the bustling metropolis. 

Meiji Jingu is particularly famous for Hatsumode, the annual event to mark the first shrine visit of the New Year. More than three million visitors gather there to pray for good fortune, making it Japan’s most-visited shrine during that season. The shrine is also known for its spiritual “power spots,” including Kiyomasa’s Well, believed to bring positive energy.

History and art enthusiasts can discover the Meiji Jingu Museum and Treasure House, showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to Emperor Meiji and Japan’s modernization.

KANDA MYOJIN

Located in Sotokanda, Chiyoda ward, Kanda Myojin—officially known as Kanda Shrine—is one of Tokyo’s most historically significant shrines. Established in 730, it has served as a spiritual center for nearly 1,300 years. During the Edo period (1603–1867), the shrine was deeply revered by both commoners and samurai, earning its reputation as the guardian shrine of Edo (present-day Tokyo).

Kanda Myojin enshrines three deities. It is widely sought after for business prosperity and matchmaking, making it especially popular among entrepreneurs and professionals.

The Kanda Matsuri, held every two years, is one of Japan’s largest festivals, features a procession of mikoshi that fills the city. In recent years, the shrine has also gained attention as a guardian of cybersecurity, reflecting its unique blend of tradition and modernity. Its proximity to Akihabara, Tokyo’s tech and anime hub, has led to collaborations with anime and video game franchises.

OMAMORI: PROTECTIVE CHARMS

A visit to a Japanese shrine or temple is often accompanied by the tradition of obtaining omamori (protective charms) or omikuji (fortune slips). These sacred tokens reflect Japan’s deep spiritual heritage and provide a meaningful experience for visitors.

Omamori are small fabric pouches containing prayers or sacred inscriptions believed to offer protection and attract good fortune. Sacred places across Japan offer a variety of charms tailored to specific desires like traffic safety, good health, academic success and romantic fulfillment. 

The history of omamori dates back to the Heian period (794–1192), when Shinto priests would offer paper or wooden talismans as protective blessings. Over time, these evolved into the fabric-encased charms seen today. Many are adorned with intricate embroidery and the name of the shrine or temple where they were consecrated to signify their spiritual power.

It is customary to carry an omamori in a purse, bag or car to provide continuous blessings. Tradition suggests replacing the charm after one year by returning it to the sacred place and receiving a new one to ensure fresh protection. Since omamori are considered sacred, they should be treated with care and respect.

OMIKUJI: FORTUNE SLIPS

Omikuji are paper fortune slips drawn at sacred places that offer guidance on various aspects of life. Visitors pay a small fee, draw a numbered stick or paper from a container, and receive a corresponding fortune. The slip includes a general fortune ranking—ranging from Daikichi (Great Blessing) to Kyou (Misfortune)—along with insights on love, health, career and academics.

If the result is favorable, the omikuji is often kept as a good-luck charm. If the fortune is unfavorable, tradition urges tying it to a designated area within the shrine grounds to symbolically leave the bad luck behind while seeking spiritual protection.

The origins of omikuji date back to the Kamakura period (1185–1333), when priests used them for decision-making. Today, drawing omikuji is a common practice during Hatsumode (New Year’s shrine visits) and is especially popular among tourists. In recent years, many shrines have begun offering English-language omikuji, making this tradition even more accessible to international visitors.

By experiencing omamori and omikuji, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for Japan’s Shinto and Buddhist traditions. These customs provide a unique opportunity to connect with Japan’s spiritual culture, making them a memorable part of any visit.

SHRINE ETIQUETTE: SHOWING RESPECT IN SACRED SPACES

To make the most of your visit, here are a few friendly tips to keep in mind: 

• Keep your voice low as you walk through the grounds to soak in the tranquil vibe.
• When snapping photos, be mindful of other visitors and check for any signs requesting guests to avoid photography near sacred areas.

With just a little awareness, you’ll not only enjoy a more authentic shrine experience, but you’ll also discover a deeper connection to the spiritual heart of Japan.

GETTING THERE WITH DELTA

Delta offers daily nonstop service to Tokyo-Haneda from Atlanta, Detroit, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, Seattle and Honolulu. Customers interested in visiting Tokyo to experience visiting these sacred spaces can book flights at Delta.com.