Hanazono Shrine, Hanazono Jinja in Japanese, is a large, ancient Shinto shrine in the very heart of Tokyo’s bustling Shinjuku ward. It is considered the most important shrine of Shinjuku, the shrine guarding the area, its inhabitants, merchants, craftsmen and artists.
Located only a few minutes on foot from Shinjuku Station on the Yamanote Line and the Kabukicho entertainment district, the shrine is somewhat hidden behind buildings lining Yasukuni Dori Avenue.
Take the East Exit of Shinjuku Station, walk towards Kabukicho. On Yasukuni Avenue, turn right and walk towards Shinjuku 2-chome (Tokyo’s gay quarter).
After about a two minute walk, you will see a small alley to your left, framed by a stone torii gate. It is located between a Family Mart convenience store and the Tsukiji Sushiko sushi restaurant.
Enter the tree-lined alley. It will lead you right into the center of Hanazono Shrine.
Alternatively, enter the shrine through its big red torii gate from Meiji Dori Avenue.
