Ueno Toshogu Shrine

上野東照宮

An Edo-period shrine with a gilded karamon and a lantern-lined path

⚠ Peony garden costs extra

Hours

About 09:00–17:00 (16:30 close Oct–Feb); peony garden seasonal

Tickets

Outer grounds free. Inner shrine ¥700 (adults). Peony garden extra

Address

9-88 Ueno Park, Taito-ku

In the middle of Ueno Park, right beside the path to the zoo, a stone-lantern approach suddenly begins. More than 250 lanterns stand along it, mostly gifts from feudal lords, so no two match in size or shape. Inside, the main hall glitters in gold leaf. It dates to 1651 and has survived war and earthquakes. The peony garden is the best reason to come, in winter (Jan–Feb) or spring (Apr–May).