Harajuku and Omotesando are best known for fashion and cafés.
But just a short walk away, you'll find lush, green shrines and scenery that feels distinctly Japanese.
Here are 3 shrines worth visiting on a day spent exploring Harajuku and Omotesando in kimono or yukata.
1. Meiji Shrine
The shrine most associated with Harajuku is, of course, Meiji Shrine.
Its entrances are just steps from JR Harajuku Station and Meiji-jingumae Station. Pass through the large torii gate, and the lively streets of Harajuku give way to a lush, tree-lined approach. It's about a 10-minute walk from each entrance to the main shrine building.
Strolling the approach slowly in a kimono or yukata, you might almost forget you're in Tokyo.
It's a spot we especially recommend for a first kimono experience in Tokyo, or for guests visiting from abroad.
2. Togo Shrine
Togo Shrine sits just a short walk from Takeshita Street.
Though only about a 3-minute walk from the Takeshita exit of JR Harajuku Station, the shrine grounds have a calm, quiet atmosphere. It enshrines Togo Heihachiro and is known as a shrine of victory and sincerity.
It's perfect for a day when you want to combine a classic Harajuku stroll with a shrine visit.
After visiting in kimono, continuing on to explore Takeshita Street and Harajuku is a great way to spend the day.
3. Onden Shrine
For a quieter side of Harajuku, we also recommend Onden Shrine.
Located in Jingumae, this shrine has roots going back around 400 years and is cherished as a guardian of beauty and good relationships. It's about a 5-minute walk from Exit 7 of Meiji-jingumae Station, or about a 10-minute walk from JR Harajuku Station.
It has a charm all its own — a small shrine tucked into the streets of Harajuku, quite different from Meiji Shrine or Togo Shrine.
It's a lovely stop along a kimono stroll through Omotesando and Jingumae.
Enjoy Harajuku & Omotesando in Kimono
Meiji Shrine, Togo Shrine, and Onden Shrine.
Each has its own charm, and after visiting, you can continue straight into exploring Harajuku and Omotesando.
At HARAJUKU KIMONO HOUSE, we offer kimono and yukata rental, dressing, and hair styling, all in one place.
Why not enjoy a day in Tokyo that's a little different from the usual sightseeing, dressed in kimono?
If you're looking for kimono rental around Harajuku, Omotesando, or Meiji Shrine, please visit HARAJUKU KIMONO HOUSE.
Shrines are places of worship. If taking photos, please be mindful of other visitors and check each shrine's latest photography guidelines.