If you happen to be in Tokyo this spring and are searching for a peaceful escape filled with color and tradition, the Azalea Festival at Nezu Shrine is a hidden gem you shouldn’t miss!
🌸 About Nezu Shrine
⛩️ Nezu Shrine (根津神社) is one of Tokyo’s oldest and most historically significant Shinto shrines, built in 1705 during the Edo period. The shrine is famous for its stunning rows of vibrant red torii gates, which gracefully wind through its forested hillsides, creating a scene reminiscent of Kyoto’s famous Fushimi Inari Shrine — but with a quieter, more serene atmosphere.
🎉 The Azalea Festival (Tsutsuji Matsuri)
Every year from early April to early May, Nezu Shrine hosts the Tsutsuji Matsuri (Azalea Festival) — one of the most anticipated spring events in Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo.
💐 Over 3,000 azalea bushes, featuring more than 100 different varieties, bloom in a breathtaking array of colors — from soft pinks and vibrant reds to snowy whites and delicate purples. The flowers blanket the shrine grounds, covering the hillsides, lining the pathways, and surrounding the koi ponds, creating an enchanting atmosphere like a living painting.
🎎 Festival Highlights
Beyond the gorgeous blossoms, the festival includes:
- 🍢 Street food stalls offering traditional Japanese snacks and seasonal treats.
- 🛍️ Handcrafted goods and local artisan products.
- 🎶 Cultural performances, such as traditional dances and Taiko drum shows, providing a lively and immersive Japanese cultural experience.
📸 A Picture-Perfect Setting
From a distance, the shrine appears like a beautiful watercolor scene — lush greenery, clusters of vibrant azaleas, tranquil ponds with koi fish gliding through the water, and rustic wooden terraces. It’s no wonder that this spot is considered one of the most scenic places in Japan for azalea viewing.
What makes Nezu Shrine even more special is how it beautifully balances traditional Japanese architecture with lush natural landscapes, offering a calm and peaceful setting right in the heart of bustling Tokyo.
📍 Visitor Information
- Address: 1 Chome-2-2 Yayoi, Bunkyo City, Tokyo 113-0032, Japan
- Opening Hours: 5:30 AM – 6:00 PM (during April and May)
- How to Get There:
🚇 Take the Tokyo Metro Nanboku Line to Todaimae Station (Exit 2), then walk for about 10 minutes.
📣 Tips for Your Visit
🌸 The flowers are currently in full bloom! It’s the perfect time to visit.
📸 For the best experience, aim to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the soft, golden light for photography.
🎒 Bring your camera or phone fully charged — you’ll want to capture every corner of this magical place!
🍡 Don’t forget to sample the delicious festival foods while strolling through the grounds.
🌿 Why You Should Visit
If you’re a nature lover, a fan of traditional Japanese culture, or simply looking for a peaceful, photogenic spot to relax in Tokyo, Nezu Shrine’s Azalea Festival is a must-see. The stunning combination of blooming flowers, historic architecture, and serene atmosphere makes this event truly unforgettable.
It’s the kind of place where time seems to slow down, letting you soak in the gentle beauty of Japan’s springtime magic.
🎐 Final Thoughts
Tokyo may be known for its skyscrapers and neon lights, but spots like Nezu Shrine remind us of the city’s timeless charm and deep cultural roots. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, visiting during the Azalea Festival offers a beautiful opportunity to witness one of Japan’s most cherished seasonal traditions.
If you have the chance, make your way there soon — the flowers won’t wait long! 🌸✨
