Togo Shrine: Learn about Admiral Togo, “the Nelson of the East”

Built in 1940, Togo Shrine (東郷神社) is dedicated to “the Nelson of the East”, Admiral Togo Heihachiro Saneyoshi. One of the greatest naval heroes of Japan, Togo completely destroyed the Russian fleet in the Battle of Tsushima (日本海海戦), 1905.That resulted in a seriously impaired image of the Russian Empire and its navy, and, on the other hand, enforced the strength of Japan and its naval power in the world. There are many thoughts about the result of that victory for other events of the XXI century, but Admiral Togo was officially pronounced a shinto kami (deity) of the shrine.Located in Harajuku, territory around the shrine and Togo memorial hall (東郷記念館) is a perfect place to take a break from shopping and crowd-watching. Although not the most exciting spot in the area, it is quite, peaceful, and there is a beautiful Japanese garden. It is definitely not as big as Shinjuku Gyouen or other gardens you can visit in the center of Tokyo, but you can enter for free and enjoy the lush greenery, turtles, and koi carps in the pond.The memorial hall is used for wedding ceremonies, and other celebrations. Just imagine a bride in a traditional Japanese wedding dress walking on the wooden boardwalk, surrounded by blossoming sakura trees. Or look up the sample photos on their website! It looks fantastic, and the cherry blossom season is just around the corner.If you are interested in naval history and know Japanese, you can take a closer look at the ample pictures on the territory of Togo Shrine. By the way, naval journals of Togo were written in English, as he had learned naval science in Great Britain.

Information

Togo Shrine

Address: Tokyo, Shibuya, Jingumae 1-5-3
Opening Hours:
Regular Holidays: none
Telephone: 03-3403-3591
Access 1: 7 min. walk from JR Harajuku Station
Access 2: 15 min. walk from Omotesando Station
Distance to airport: 18 km from Haneda Airport
Official website: http://www.togo.co.jp/togojinja/

Article by Olga Kaneda