Kokuryo Shrine is primarily known as a power spot for relationships and marriage blessings, as it is dedicated to Okuninushi-no-Mikoto, the deity of matchmaking and nation-building. The shrine has served as an important spiritual site in the Musashi Province for over 1,000 years and attracts visitors seeking romantic partnerships, marital harmony, and general relationship success. It also features ancient zelkova trees and well-preserved Edo-period architecture.
Take the Keio Line from Shinjuku Station and get off at Kokuryo Station, which takes approximately 20 minutes. From the station, the shrine is about a 5-minute walk. The shrine is located in the Chofu district of Tokyo, making it easily accessible for day trips from any part of the city.
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Kokuryo Shrine. The grounds are open to all visitors free of charge throughout the year. However, donations are customary if you participate in religious activities such as prayers, purchasing amulets, or writing wishes on ema prayer plaques.
Follow traditional Shinto visiting customs: bow at the torii gate entrance, purify your hands and mouth at the water pavilion, make an offering at the main hall, and pray by bowing twice, clapping twice, and bowing once more. You can also purchase omamori protective charms for relationships, write wishes on wooden ema plaques, and explore the grounds to see the ancient zelkova trees and historic architecture dating back to 1822.
The shrine can be visited year-round, but spring is particularly beautiful when cherry blossoms bloom on the grounds. The annual spring and autumn festivals offer special experiences with traditional music and ceremonial processions. Weekday mornings tend to be quieter if you prefer a more peaceful visit, while weekends and festival days see larger crowds and more festive atmospheres.
