Nezu Shrine

The Nezu Shrine is one of the oldest in Tokyo —it dates from the 17th century— and offers a much quieter and more authentic experience than the great tourist temples. Its biggest attraction is the tunnel of small red torii that winds up the hillside of the garden: an intimate and very photogenic version of the famous Fushimi Inari of Kyoto. The shrine is also known for its spectacular 300-year-old azalea garden, the star of the Tsutsuji Matsuri (Bunkyo Azalea Festival) held in April. During the festival, more than 3.000 azalea plants of 100 different varieties cover the 6.600 m² of the garden in pinks, lilacs and whites; access to the garden has an admission of 500-1.000 ¥ depending on the moment of bloom. The shrine grounds themselves have free access. To get there, leave by Nezu or Sendagi station (Metro Chiyoda), 5 minutes' walk away. It is advisable to visit on a weekday to avoid crowds. Outside the azalea period, the atmosphere is serene and almost free of tourists, which makes it a refuge of peace in bustling Tokyo.