Hakusan Shrine
Hakusan Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Bunkyo ward of Tokyo, Japan, with a history spanning over 1,000 years. The shrine was originally established in 948 AD during the Heian period, though it was relocated to its current location in 1655 by the feudal lord Tokugawa Mitsukuni. The shrine is dedicated to three deities: Kukurihime-no-Mikoto, Izanagi-no-Mikoto, and Izanami-no-Mikoto, following the tradition of Hakusan worship that originated from Mount Hakusan in Ishikawa Prefecture.
The shrine is renowned for its spectacular hydrangea festival held annually in June, when approximately 3,000 hydrangea plants representing around 20 varieties bloom throughout the grounds. The hillside behind the main shrine building transforms into a vibrant display of blue, purple, pink, and white blossoms, making it one of Tokyo's most popular flower-viewing destinations during this season. Beyond the hydrangeas, the shrine grounds feature traditional architecture including vermillion torii gates and stone guardian dogs, offering visitors a peaceful retreat from the urban surroundings.
Visitors can explore the shrine's compact but beautifully landscaped grounds, which include the main worship hall, several smaller shrines, and winding pathways that lead up the hydrangea-covered slope. The shrine is particularly atmospheric during the early morning hours when fewer visitors are present. Photography is permitted throughout the grounds, and many visitors come specifically to capture the iconic view of hydrangeas framing the shrine's torii gates.
Hakusan Shrine is accessible via the Tokyo Metro Namboku Line to Hongō-sanchōme Station, approximately a 10-minute walk from Exit 1, or via Toei Mita Line to Hakusan Station, roughly an 8-minute walk away. The shrine is also reachable from Myōgadani Station on the Marunouchi Line. Admission to the shrine grounds is free year-round, though a small donation of 200 yen is requested during the hydrangea festival period to help maintain the gardens.
