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Passing through the hustle and bustle of Harajuku and stepping away from the lively Meiji-dori, a different world enveloped in silence and greenery unfolds before you. Togo Shrine is dedicated to Heihachiro Togo, who led Japan to victory in the Russo-Japanese War, and, despite being located in the heart of the city, offers a tranquil space that calms the mind.
Passing through the torii gate, you are greeted by a pond called “Shinchi” spreading out before you. This pond was once part of the garden of the former Tottori domain lord, Marquis Ikeda’s residence, and reflects the scenery of each season. Trees grow thickly around the pond, with cherry blossoms in full bloom in spring and autumn leaves reflected on the water’s surface in fall. A wooden bridge crosses the center of the pond, from which you can see colorful carp swimming leisurely and turtles sunbathing on the stones. This pond is also known as a place where people who could not escape during the Tokyo air raids of 1945 hid and protected their lives. (omote-sando.tokyo)
Crossing the pond and climbing the stone steps, a solemn shrine gate appears. Beyond it sits the main shrine building, rebuilt in 1964. On the left side of the main shrine is the “Umi no Miya” ancestral shrine, where the spirits of those involved in the navy, maritime affairs, and fisheries are enshrined. In addition, within the shrine grounds, there are monuments conveying the history of war, such as the memorial for special young navy soldiers and the submarine memorial. (jisya-in.tokyo)
Togo Shrine is visited by many worshippers as a god of victory. At the shrine office, you can receive amulets to boost luck in competitions, such as the “Katsu-fuda” stamped with Heihachiro Togo’s handwritten character for “victory,” and the “Katsu-mamori” featuring the Z flag. Unique amulets, such as the “Health Protection Amulet” decorated with Sanrio characters, are also popular. (asoview.com)
As you stroll through the grounds, you can see paintings depicting the life of Heihachiro Togo displayed on the walls and learn about his achievements. In summer, wind chimes called “Yume-furin” are hung around the grounds, and their cool sounds soothe the hearts of visitors. (tabidan.tokyo)
Why not spend a moment here, where you can forget the noise of the city, connect with the spirit of Heihachiro Togo, and refresh your mind?