TOKYO

Ueno Toshogu Shrine and Peony Garden

Historic Edo architecture and seasonal blooms in the heart of Ueno Park

Admire a 17th-century shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu and stroll through a colorful garden of peonies and dahlias

Culture & Arts Nature & Views

Enjoy a glimpse into Japan’s Edo-period grandeur in one of Tokyo’s most popular districts.

Founded in 1627, the shrine is dedicated to the memory of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. The main structure (Honden), also known as Golden Hall, was rebuilt in 1651 by Tokugawa Iemitsu and has remarkably remained intact, surviving earthquakes, fires, and wars, and maintaining its original form for nearly four centuries. The hall, richly decorated with gold leaf and intricate carvings, stands as a testament to the opulence and craftsmanship of Edo architecture. Designated an Important Cultural Property, it remains one of the few surviving examples of that era’s shrine construction and a place of prayer for good fortune.

At the Ueno Toshogu Shrine, you can buy traditional souvenirs and enjoy activities that will make your experience even more memorable. Among the most popular keepsakes for international visitors are charms (omamori) for good luck, happiness, or longevity, as well as amulets shaped like inro, the old medicine boxes. You can also take part in typical shrine activities such as writing wishes on wooden plaques (ema) and hanging them alongside other people’s prayers, or drawing fortune slips (omikuji) to learn what the future holds. English omikuji are also available – a good way to make lasting memories while visiting the shrine.

Within the same precinct of the shrine lies the Ueno Toshogu Peony Garden, a strolling-style Japanese garden that adds a touch of nature to the historical site. Established in 1980 to commemorate the friendship between Japan and China, the garden offers stunning displays of seasonal flowers throughout the year. In spring, you can admire around 500 peony plants representing 110 varieties that bloom in vivid colors, while winter brings 160 plants of 40 varieties carefully protected under straw huts (warabocchi) to withstand the cold. In autumn, visitors can admire 200 dahlias of 100 varieties, protected under the shade of Japanese umbrellas. Walking through the garden, you'll enjoy the beauty of flowers set against traditional Japanese architecture, feeling the atmosphere of the Edo period with the five-storied pagoda and lanterns.

Easily accessible from Ueno Station, the Ueno Toshogu Shrine and Peony Garden offer a rewarding combination of history, culture, and natural charm. Whether you’re visiting for the blossoms, the architecture, or simply a tranquil break from the city, this is one of Tokyo’s most elegant corners.

Address

9-88, Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo

Business hours

Ueno Toshogu Shrine
Visiting Hours: Winter Season (October – February): 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM / Summer Season (March – September): 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Peony Garden
Ueno Toshogu Shrine – Seasonal Flower Events
Spring Peony Festival: Early April – Early May
Autumn Garden with Dahlias: Late September – Late October
Ueno Toshogu Winter Peony Festival: January 1 – Late February

WEB site

https://www.uenotoshogu.com/en/

Digital Map