TokyoLeisure

Ana Hachimangu Shrine (穴八幡宮)

Flow of the course

Previous stop: A museum recreating the study of the house where Natsume Soseki spent his final years

About 15 min from the previous stop

About 40 min here

About 15 min to the next stop

Next stop: Spread a sheet in the shade for a bento lunch

About this spot

A shrine set on the heights near Waseda University that has drawn worshippers since the Edo period. The vermilion Zuishinmon gate and the drum tower catch the eye, and as you climb the stone steps the sounds of the town fade away. It is known nationwide for the Ichiyo Raifuku amulet issued between the winter solstice and Setsubun, but in summer the precincts are hushed, quiet enough to make resting in the shade a pleasure. For children, simply counting the steps as they climb becomes a small challenge. The Hakoneyama area of Toyama Park is within walking distance.

Tips

There are steep stone steps up to the precincts, so it is safer to leave the stroller at the bottom and carry your child up. Staffed hours at the shrine office vary with the season. Agree beforehand that you will worship quietly. There is plenty of shade, but climbing up and down the steps works up a sweat, so remember to keep hydrated.