Sakura Jingu, a serene Shinto shrine located in Setagaya, Tokyo, is a hidden gem known for its early blooming Kawazu cherry blossoms. While most cherry blossom spots in Tokyo reach peak bloom in late March to early April, Sakura Jingu offers visitors the rare opportunity to enjoy vibrant pink sakura as early as February. This intimate shrine is also a well-known site for enmusubi (relationship blessings), making it a meaningful destination for those praying for love and other personal connections.

Why Sakura Jingu is Worth Visiting

• Early-Blooming Kawazu sakura
  Unlike the more common Somei-Yoshino variety, Kawazu sakura blossoms in February and lasts longer, providing an extended period of sakura appreciation.
• Enmusubi Blessings
  The shrine is dedicated to enmusubi, or relationship bonds, where visitors can tie pink “hanaobi” ribbons to a sacred sakura tree while making wishes for love, friendship, and other relationships.
• Serene and Photogenic Atmosphere
  With its tranquil setting and picturesque sakura trees, the shrine offers a peaceful and less crowded alternative to Tokyo’s major cherry blossom spots.
• Cultural and Spiritual Significance
  Home to 19 deities, Sakura Jingu attracts visitors seeking blessings not only for love but also for longevity, health, childbirth, safe travel, and protection from disasters.
• Unique Worship Experience
  The shrine features an “Internet Yohai” service that allows remote worship for those unable to visit in person.

Sakura Jingu Cherry Blossoms

Sakura Jingu is best known for its two Kawazu sakura trees, which burst into bloom from early February to early March. This cherry blossom variety is recognizable by its deep pink petals and long blooming period of about a month. One of the trees is designated as the enmusubi tree, where visitors tie pink hanaobi ribbons with heartfelt wishes.

The contrast of the pink blossoms against the traditional shrine architecture creates an enchanting scene, making it a popular spot for photography. While the cherry blossoms alone are worth a visit, the cultural practice of tying hanaobi ribbons adds an interactive and meaningful dimension to the experience.

Facilities & Amenities

The shrine provides English and Chinese pamphlets for international guests, and there is a Times parking lot (paid) conveniently located near the torii gate. While credit cards are accepted for prayer offerings, amulets and seal stamps require cash. Additionally, the shrine distributes special red ink stamps (goshuin) monthly for collectors.

Dining Options

While there are no dining options within the shrine itself, the surrounding area of Sakurashinmachi offers various eateries. Nearby, PIZZA MAFIA TOKYO serves artisan pizzas with high-quality ingredients. Ogawa Coffee Laboratory, a warehouse-style flagship café, is popular for its extensive coffee menu and upscale international fare. For a more relaxed experience, Cafe La Boheme Sakura Shinmachi Branch offers an elegant European-style setting with Italian cuisine and great coffee.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Plan your visit between early February and early March to witness the Kawazu sakura in full bloom.
• Bring Cash: While credit cards are accepted for prayers, purchases of amulets and goshuin require cash payments.
• Respect Shrine Etiquette: Follow the prayer ritual: bow twice, clap four times, pray, and bow once to show respect at the altar.

Video

Sakura Jingu Shrine is featured in this video about the best places to see Kawazu sakura in Japan. The segment starts at 2:35.

How to Get to Sakura Jingu

Sakura Jingu is conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from Sakura-shimmachi Station on the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line. The shrine is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, making it an easily accessible destination for both local and international visitors.

Nearby Attractions

• Gotokuji Temple
  A famous Buddhist temple known as the birthplace of the lucky beckoning cat (maneki-neko). Rows of cat figurines make this a charming and unique sightseeing spot.
• Setagaya Art Museum
  A cultural institution showcasing contemporary and traditional art, featuring exhibitions from local and international artists.
• Setagaya Boroichi Market
  Held twice a year in December and January, this traditional flea market is one of the oldest in Tokyo, featuring antiques, crafts, and street food.

Nearby Cherry Blossom Spots

• Kinuta Park
  A spacious park featuring open lawns and hundreds of cherry trees, making it a popular spot for hanami (flower viewing parties).
• Komazawa Olympic Park
  Known for its wide walking paths and sports facilities, this park is also home to beautiful cherry blossom trees that bloom in spring.
• Todoroki Fudoson Temple
  A peaceful temple surrounded by nature, with cherry trees adding to its scenic beauty in springtime.