Hikawa Shrine Blessing and Ema Prayer Experience in Nakano

Tokyo , Japan

Hikawa Shrine Blessing and Ema Prayer Experience in Nakano

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About this experience

Nakano's Numabukuro Hikawa Shrine is a tranquil and historic site. It is home to the "Three Wishes Pine," where tying an ema (wooden prayer plaque) is believed to grant three wishes. The tour offers a unique opportunity to experience a traditional Shinto ritual inside the shrine's main hall, which is typically closed to the public. After the blessing, participants can write and dedicate their ema. The shrine also features the Seven Lucky Gods and has become popular among anime fans as it appears in series like Demon Slayer and Tokyo Revengers. The tour includes a prayer ritual, an ema dedication, and omamori (protective amulet) as souvenirs, providing a rich blend of Japanese tradition and pop culture.

Religious Considerations:
While this tour involves Shinto rituals, participation in religious activities is optional. Visitors of different faiths can observe the rituals without fully participating. Respect for the practices and customs of the shrine is appreciated.

Available options

Hikawa Shrine Blessing and Ema Prayer Experience in Nakano

What's included

Guide for 1 hours

Offering fee (prayer fee)

Protective charm (omamori)

Ema (votive tablet)

Ofuda (shrine talisman)

Detailed itinerary

The meeting point is in front of the south exit ticket gate. A guide holding a sign that says 'KOIKOI JAPAN CULTURE TOUR' will be there. Following the guide's lead, you will proceed to the destination, Numabukuro Shrine.

Numabukuro Hikawa Shrine is a quiet and beautiful historic shrine located in Nakano Ward. In the shrine grounds, there is the 'Three Wishes Pine,' which is said to grant three wishes when a votive tablet (ema) is tied to it. Visitors can participate in traditional Japanese rituals through a prayer experience inside the sanctuary, which is usually closed to the public. After the prayer, visitors will dedicate their ema and be guided through the grounds by the head priest. The shrine also houses the Seven Lucky Gods, where prayers for encounters and prosperity can be offered. Lastly, participants will receive both a protective charm (omamori) and a sacred ofuda as souvenirs. Recently, it has gained popularity among anime fans due to its appearance in shows like 'Demon Slayer' and 'Tokyo Revengers.' This unique experience blends traditional culture with pop culture, offering a distinctive atmosphere in the heart of the city.

We will escort you from the shrine back to the station.

What's not included

meals and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

There will be a staff member holding a sign that says 'KOIKOI JAPAN CULTURE TOUR' at the south exit of Numabukuro Station.

About Tokyo

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a bustling metropolis that beautifully blends traditional culture with cutting-edge technology. Known for its neon-lit streets, historic temples, and world-class cuisine, Tokyo offers a unique experience that caters to every type of traveler.

Top Attractions

Senso-ji Temple

Senso-ji is Tokyo's oldest temple and one of its most significant. The temple's massive lantern and five-story pagoda are iconic landmarks.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (small fee for some areas)

Meiji Shrine

Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. It is surrounded by a beautiful forest.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free

Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing is the world's busiest pedestrian crossing and a symbol of Tokyo's bustling urban life. It's a must-see for its chaotic yet orderly nature.

Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (¥2,200 for Shibuya Sky)

Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in Japan and the second tallest freestanding structure in the world. It offers breathtaking views of the city.

Architecture 2-3 hours ¥2,100 to ¥3,100 (USD $15 to $22)

Odaiba

Odaiba is a man-made island in Tokyo Bay known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's a great place for families and tech enthusiasts.

Entertainment Half day to full day Varies by attraction

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sushi

Fresh raw fish served on vinegared rice, a staple of Japanese cuisine.

Dinner Contains fish, can be vegetarian with substitutes.

Ramen

Noodle soup with various broths and toppings, a popular comfort food.

Lunch/Dinner Vegan and vegetarian options available.

Tempura

Deep-fried seafood and vegetables, known for its crispy texture.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and deep-fried ingredients.

Okonomiyaki

Savory pancake with various ingredients, often topped with sauce and bonito flakes.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and can be made vegetarian.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Parasailing at Odaiba Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Traditional tea ceremonies Kimono rentals and photo shoots Boat tours on the Sumida River Beach activities at Odaiba

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn)

These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. However, these are also the busiest times for tourism.

10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Tokyo is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public order. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis and check fares before getting in.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Getting there

By air

Narita International Airport • 60 km (37 miles) from city center
Haneda Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center

By train

Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station

By bus

Tokyo Station Bus Terminal, Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Tokyo's subway system is efficient, clean, and punctual. It consists of multiple lines operated by Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Shibuya Shinjuku Asakusa Ginza Akihabara

Day trips

Nikko

120 km (75 miles) from Tokyo • Full day

Nikko is a city known for its beautiful shrines, temples, and natural scenery. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

Kamakura

50 km (31 miles) from Tokyo • Half day to full day

Kamakura is a coastal town known for its historic temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha statue. It's a great place to experience traditional Japanese culture.

Hakone

90 km (56 miles) from Tokyo • Full day or overnight

Hakone is a hot spring resort town known for its onsen (hot springs), scenic views of Mount Fuji, and the Open-Air Museum. It's a popular destination for relaxation and nature.

Festivals

Sannō Matsuri • Mid-June (every 2 years) Kanda Matsuri • Mid-May (every 2 years) Sumida River Fireworks Festival • Last Saturday of July

Pro tips

Use IC cards like Suica or Pasmo for convenient and discounted public transport.
Download useful apps like Google Maps, Japan Transit Planner, and Japan Travel by Navitime.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
Carry cash, as some smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.