Igusa Hachimangu Photo Guide
This Igusa Hachimangu photo guide explores one of my favorite local shrines in Tokyo. While it’s different from the sprawling Meiji Jingu, this historic Suginami shrine offers a wealth of opportunities for photographers. In this guide, I’ll share what makes it special, what to photograph, and everything you need to plan your visit.
The shrine is a little far from train stations. Most people will take a car or bus there. But if you choose to walk, it’s about twenty minutes. However you go, you pass through suburban Tokyo.
Igusa Hachimangu isn’t big, but there is enough to enjoy exploring. For me, it is all about the buildings. They have that classical Japanese style.
In spring, several cherry trees near the main gate brighten up the grounds. While you’ll find a greater number of trees at larger spots like Meiji Jingu, Igusa Hachimangu offers a chance to photograph the blossoms in a quieter, more intimate local setting.
What can you photograph at this shrine?
- Beautiful shrine architecture: The main draw is the architecture. The current main shrine building (haiden) is a fantastic example of the Gongen-zukuri style. This is a structure where the worship hall (haiden) and the main sanctuary (honden) are connected under one roof, forming a shape like the letter ‘H’. Within the main hall is the original 1664 structure, which is Suginami’s oldest wooden building.
- Cherry blossoms (several trees near the main gate)
- Lanterns (enormous ones at the main gate)
- Plum cherry (one tree)
- Yabusame (horse archery) – held once every five years. The most recent event was held in October 2022, which suggests the next one will likely be in the autumn of 2027.
Photography tips
- A wide-angle and a short zoom should cover all your needs at Igusa Hachimangu.
- The inner sanctum of the shrine is visible in the honden (main hall). This is sacred, and photographing it is strictly prohibited.
- Be mindful of worshippers and don’t take their photos without permission.
Note about the ema (votive tablets)
As the shrine is dedicated to Hachiman (the god of archery and war), many ema carry his image.
Nearby photo spots
- Inokashira Park (one of Tokyo’s most famous parks, near Kichijoji Station)
- Zenpukuji Park (great for cherry blossoms and birds)
Plan your visit
Where is Igusa Hachimangu?
Address: 1-33-1 Zenpukuji, Suginami City, Tokyo
Here it is on a Google map:
Closest train station
You have a choice of two stations:
- Kami Shakuji Station on the Seibu-Shinjuku line.
- Nishi-Ogikubo Station on the Chuo, Sobu, and Tozai lines.
It is about a 25-minute walk from both stations.
By bus
From Ogikubo Station’s North Exit, take a 荻34 Kanto Bus bound for Kitaura (北裏行).
Opening hours
6:15 (or 05:00) a.m. to 4:40 (or 6:30) p.m. depending on the season.
Admission costs
None
For the latest and most update to date information, check the official Igusa Hachimangu website.
A brief history of Igusa Hachimangu
- The shrine was founded circa 1190.
- Shogun Yoritomo Minamoto planted two pine trees in front of the main shrine around 1200. Those trees are now gone, but parts of the roots are exhibited along the corridor of the front shrine.
- In 1664, Ujinari Imagawa, an influential samurai, renovated the main shrine. The vermilion-lacquered shrine is Suginami’s oldest wooden construction. It still stands within the main hall.
Frequently Asked Questions about Igusa Hachimangu
- Is Igusa Hachimangu worth visiting?
- Yes, if you are looking to experience an authentic, local Tokyo shrine away from the major tourist crowds. It is especially rewarding for those interested in Japanese architecture, history, and tranquil photography.
- How much time do you need at Igusa Hachimangu?
- You can comfortably explore and photograph the shrine grounds in about 45 to 60 minutes.
- What is the best time of year to visit?
- Spring is a beautiful time to visit, with several cherry blossom trees on the grounds. However, the shrine’s historic architecture makes it a worthwhile visit at any time of year.
Conclusion
If you are a shrine lover, I highly recommend Igusa Hachimangu. While it may not be an all-day trip, it offers a rewarding glimpse into a real Tokyo community. For those passionate about Japan photography, it’s a chance to move beyond the postcards and capture something with genuine history, beautiful architecture, and a truly local spirit.
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.
