Asagaya Shinmeigu Photo Guide
Asagaya Shinmeigu might surprise you. The shrine has a history stretching back over 1,700 years. Yet its unassuming size and serenity make it feel worlds away from Tokyo’s bustling energy. You won’t need hours to explore its intricate architecture, framed by lush trees. It is an ideal quick stop for photographers. Plus, you can capture its unique crescent-shaped ema. If you are fortunate, you might glimpse a Shinto wedding.
The shrine is small. Honestly, I need to stress that. It’s not much larger than a postage stamp. Trees surround it, giving you a feeling of serenity. That part is like Meiji Jingu. I think you’ll be impressed.
Visits there won’t take long. So, if you are looking for a place to spend hours photographing, you might be disappointed. The architecture is brilliant, but other than that, you’ll need to work creatively.
What can you photograph at Asagaya Shinmeigu?
- Shrine architecture. Asagaya Shinmeigu is one of Tokyo’s most beautiful.
- As with other temples and shrines, there are racks of ema. Those are wooden plaques for writing your requests to the gods. Asagaya Shinmeigu’s are a little different – crescent moons! They are good for photos.
- When the cherry blossoms are in bloom, there is a special event. Shrine maidens (Miko) perform dances and songs dedicated to the goddess. I’ve never attended, but apparently, it is open to everybody with free sake and food. The date depends on when the cherry blossoms bloom, so it may vary each year.
- And as with many shrines, there is a chance to see a Shinto wedding during your visit. Spring and autumn might be your best chance for that. You’ll need some luck for these, though. Check out a Rokuyo calendar for one of those. You might also want to check out my article about Meiji Shrine, which can give some hints.
Other photo spots in the area
- Inokashira Park (in Kichijoji)
- Myohoji Temple
- Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (in Shinjuku)
- Zenpukuji Park (click here for 2017 cherry blossoms pics)
Visitor Information
- Asagaya Shinmeigu address: 1-25-5 Asagayakita, Suginami City, Tokyo
- Closest train station: Asagaya is on the Tokyo Metro Tozai, JR Chuo, and Sobu lines. Leave via the East exit, and the shrine is a five-minute walk away.
- Opening hours: 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Admission fees: None
- Administration office phone number: (03) 3330 – 4824
Here it is on a Google map:
Conclusion
Asagaya Shinmeigu is beautiful, but small, so photographers might struggle to find things to shoot. A visit won’t take long, but the architecture makes it worthwhile. That is the one thing I enjoy.
Unfortunately, there isn’t much in the area for photography. If you are looking for something “big,” you’ll be disappointed. I suggest combining it with one of the shrine’s festivals. Maybe you could go during Tanabata? The Pearl Center Shopping Street on the station’s south side has a great event for it. That is fun. But I have to admit, you might find it good for street photography.
The good thing is that Asagaya is on the Chuo, Sobu, and Tozai lines. That makes moving to your next spot easy. Kichijoji and Shinjuku are only a short train ride away.
Rohan Gillett
Rohan has photographed Tokyo since 2011. He shoots it with his Canon EOS R5 these days. The project will take more than one lifetime to complete.
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External related websites
- Asagaya Shinmeigu (Official Website)