What other travelers are saying about Ueno Toshogu Shrine
Ueno Toshogu Shrine is a beautifully preserved Edo-period shrine that honors Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. Unlike the grand Nikko Toshogu where Ieyasu himself is buried, this shrine serves as a Tokyo tribute and resting place for many other members of the Tokugawa family. The historical weight of the place can be felt as soon as you pass through the impressive torii gate and approach the richly decorated main hall.
The shrine’s architecture is stunning—adorned with intricate gold leaf and carvings that have survived fires, earthquakes, and war thanks to its designation as an Important Cultural Property. The long stone lantern avenue leading to the main shrine is particularly atmospheric, especially in the early morning or at dusk.
Though smaller than Nikko, Ueno Toshogu carries a quiet dignity and a deep sense of history. It’s a fascinating place for anyone interested in the Tokugawa legacy or Edo culture, offering a peaceful contrast to the lively surroundings of Ueno Park.
It is a beautiful place, all the buildings intricately preserved. I can imaging how it was in the old times, people walking in their bamboo slippers, bowing to each other going about their daily lives. I understand the entrance fee as it must cost a lot to maintain this beautiful place for future generations. What with the trove of tourists flocking and trampling on the grounds. Please be respectful of this heritage.
It is one of the ancient (400 years old )Thoshogu Shinto shrines of Japan. It is a great example Shinto Architecture and has got a very beautiful Karamon (gate), a type of curved gable ended peculiar Japanese style one.
The shrine is famous for the enshrining Tokugawa Leyasu, the founder of Shogunate along with few other Shoguns. This shrine withstood few wars and many earthquakes, and without noticeable damages.
The architecture is worth watching and with many beautiful features including that of the Karamon, Honden etc. It is one of the important cultural properties of Japan.
The property is located near to the Ueno Zooand the Nature Science centre. We walked from near the entrances to the shrine ( app 10 minutes). We could also see a folk singer on the way.
This is one of my favorite shrines in Tokyo and, in my opinion, the most beautiful one. Yes, it's small, but the design of the buildings, the sight of the courtyard, which are visible only inside the walls, are so stunning and make you reluctant to leave.
Tosho-gu Shrine is a dazzling piece of Japan history, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu(德川家康) and other Tokugawa shoguns. You’ll spot the Tokugawa family crest all around the grounds, adding to the sense of legacy and tradition. The golden details and intricate carvings are absolutely stunning, like walking through a living museum. It’s one of Japan’s most important historical sites.
Visiting the exterior of Ueno Toshogu Shrine is free of charge. For those wishing to explore the interior and the peony garden, the admission fee is 500 yen for adults. There's a combined ticket for the shrine and peony garden that costs 1100 yen for adults. Discounts are available for groups and children, with children under 6 years old entering for free.
The Ueno Toshogu Shrine was built in honor of Tokugawa Ieyasu, but the specific individuals or groups responsible for its construction were likely patrons and craftsmen commissioned by the Tokugawa family or the shogunate. The original Toshogu Shrine in Nikko, which served as a model for others, including the one in Ueno, was constructed by Tokugawa Hidetada, the second Tokugawa shogun, and further embellished by his successor, Tokugawa Iemitsu.
"Toshogu" translates to "Toshogu Shrine," where "To" is an honorific prefix, "sho" means "shogun," and "gu" means "shrine." Therefore, Toshogu Shrines are dedicated to the deified spirit of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the shogun who played a crucial role in Japan's history by founding the Tokugawa shogunate.
The Ueno Toshogu Shrine was built in 1627, shortly after the death of Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1616. It was established as a place of worship and a symbol of respect for Ieyasu's contributions to Japan. The shrine has since been a site of historical and cultural significance, reflecting the enduring legacy of the Tokugawa era in Japanese history.
