Free taste · 3 of 13 places · Big in Japan
Temples & Shrines
Even in the busiest city in the world, the silence sneaks up on you. Step through a torii and the noise drops, suddenly, completely.
Sensoji map
Founded in 645 AD. Walk through the giant red Kaminarimon lantern, down Nakamise Dori, and arrive at the temple itself. Come at dawn or after dark to feel it without the crowds.
Meiji Shrine map
Wrapped in 120,000 trees planted by hand a century ago. The walk from the entrance to the main hall is the meditation. Watch for traditional Shinto weddings on weekend mornings.
Zojo-ji Temple map
One of Tokyo's most photographed spots — the dark temple framed by the bright tower behind it. Don't miss the haunting Garden of Unborn Children (1000 Kosodate Jizo-son): rows of small stone statues, each in a red knitted hat, watched over by parents who lost children.
That was 3 of 13 places in this chapter. The rest are in Big in Japan.