Bunkyo Azalea Festival at Nezu Shrine

Tokyo’s Azalea Wonderland

Venue: Nezu Shrine

When: April 1–30, 2026

Step into a vibrant sea of color at the Bunkyo Azalea Festival, one of Tokyo’s most breathtaking spring events. Held throughout April at the historic Nezu Shrine, this festival is a feast for the senses. 

The shrine's hillside garden bursts into life with over 3,000 azalea bushes of 100 different varieties, creating a spectacular floral landscape. It’s more than just flowers; the festival offers a glimpse into local culture with traditional performances, food stalls, and a lively atmosphere. 

Located in the charming Nezu area of Tokyo, the Nezu Shrine Azalea Festival is an unforgettable way to experience spring in Japan. A must-see for anyone visiting Nezu Shrine in Tokyo.

What to Expect at Bunkyo Azalea Festival

The Bunkyo Azalea Festival, held at Nezu Shrine, transforms the grounds into one of Tokyo’s most celebrated spots for azaleas. The shrine’s azalea garden boasts around 3,000 bushes of 100 different varieties, creating a stunning tapestry of red, pink, and white blossoms. Beyond the flowers, the festival features traditional Shinto rituals and processions. 

You’ll also have the rare chance to see special treasures up close, including the Sanjurokkasen-e (portraits of 36 poetry immortals) and ornate zuishin statues (guardian figures of warriors, typically housed on either side of a shrine gate).

Who Is Bunkyo Azalea Festival at Nezu Shrine For? 

The Bunkyo Azalea Festival offers something special for a wide range of visitors:

• Nature lovers: With over 3,000 azalea bushes blooming in vibrant colors, it’s a must-see for those who enjoy seasonal beauty and outdoor strolls.

• Flower enthusiasts and photographers: The carefully tended gardens provide countless photo opportunities, from sweeping views of the hillside to close-ups of rare azalea varieties.

• Culture and history fans: Beyond the flowers, visitors can explore traditional Yamato-e paintings, antique markets, and the shrine’s centuries-old architecture.

• Families: The relaxed atmosphere and spacious shrine grounds make it an enjoyable outing for parents and children alike.

• Foodies: Food stalls and trucks serve Japanese festival favorites, from yakitori and taiyaki to seasonal sweets, turning the day into both a visual and culinary feast.

• Travelers seeking authenticity: Compared to busier spring events like cherry blossom festivals, this celebration feels more local and serene, offering a different perspective on Japanese spring traditions.

Pro Tips

• Arrive early: Weekends can get very crowded, and during peak bloom, entry may be restricted. Visiting early in the morning not only helps you avoid the rush but also lets you enjoy the gardens in softer light, which is perfect for photography.

• Plan for sun: Even though it’s spring, the sun can feel surprisingly strong. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, and carry a water bottle to stay hydrated while exploring the shrine grounds.

• Choose weekdays if possible: If your schedule allows, plan your visit on a weekday for a quieter, more relaxed experience. You’ll have more space to enjoy the flowers and take photos without waiting.

• Wear comfortable shoes: The festival paths can be uneven or slightly sloped, so good walking shoes make a big difference.

• Bring cash: Food trucks, festival stalls, and small vendors around the shrine often only accept cash. Having coins and small bills ready makes buying snacks or souvenirs easier.

• Check bloom updates: The timing of peak bloom can vary slightly depending on the weather. Keep an eye on local updates before your visit to catch the flowers at their best.

What to Wear at the Azalea Festival

In recent years, April in Japan has seen some surprisingly warm days, with temperatures occasionally climbing above 25°C (77°F), especially in the latter half of the month. Check the weather forecast, but it’s wise to dress in layers, like a light long-sleeved shirt or a T-shirt for daytime. 

Besides the azalea garden, you’ll be exploring the grounds of Nezu Shrine in Tokyo, Japan, which include historic buildings designated as Important Cultural Properties. There are many stairs and some uneven paths, so comfortable walking shoes are a must.

How to Get to Nezu Shrine

By train, the shrine is a 5-minute walk from Nezu Station or Sendagi Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line. It’s also a 5-minute walk from Todaimae Station on the Tokyo Metro Namboku Line. Several bus routes also serve the area. The closest stop is Nezu-jinja-iriguchi on the Toei Bus (Route #58), just a 1-minute walk away.

Nearby Recommendations 

The area around Nezu Shrine is packed with culinary delights, from must-try Japanese specialties to charming cafes.

• Tempura Fukutaro: Praised for its incredibly fresh tempura.

• Nezu Kamachiku: Enjoy udon noodles and sake in a stylish, modern Japanese setting.

• Matcha&Espresso MIYANO-YU: A retro cafe in a former public bathhouse, serving matcha drinks and traditional sweets.

The shrine's proximity to major attractions like Ueno Park means there are plenty of accommodation options. Use JapanDen accommodation to find a hotel with convenient access.

More About Bunkyo Azalea Festival

The Bunkyo Azalea Festival is a cultural celebration that brings together history, tradition, and community.

• Unique souvenirs: Visitors can purchase limited-edition festival items such as kirie-goshuin (intricate paper-cut shrine stamps) for around ¥1,000 and ema (wooden prayer plaques) for about ¥2,000. These not only serve as beautiful keepsakes but also carry spiritual significance, making them meaningful mementos of your visit.

• Weekend highlights: Many of the festival’s most traditional and lively events are scheduled on weekends. These include:

  • Chigo Gyoretsu: A colorful procession of children dressed in traditional costumes, symbolizing purity and celebration.

  • Mikoshi parades: Portable shrines carried by locals through the grounds, accompanied by chants and festive energy.

  • Nezu Gongen Daiko: Dynamic drum performances that echo through the shrine grounds, creating an atmosphere of excitement and cultural pride.

• Festival atmosphere: Beyond the flowers and performances, the shrine grounds transform into a bustling hub, with food stalls, small shops, and locals mingling with visitors. It’s an opportunity to not only see but also feel the vibrancy of Japanese community life in spring.

Planning Your Visit 

Spring is the peak travel season in Japan, so it’s best to plan your trip well in advance. Use services like the ones below to arrange your accommodation, transportation, and internet access before you arrive.

• Booking accommodation early using JapanDen.

• Use local transport (Tokyo Metro/Toei Bus) to reach the shrine; consider a JR Pass if you’re traveling between cities on the same trip.

• Stay connected with Pocket Wi-Fi.

When visiting the Nezu Shrine Azalea Festival, you’ll also have the chance to pay your respects at the shrine itself. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with basic shrine etiquette, such as bowing before the torii gate and purifying your hands and mouth at the holy fountain. Remember to bring some cash for osaisen (offerings) when you pray.

FAQs About the Azalea Festival

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Bunkyo Azalea Festival at Nezu Shrine.

Q: Do I need a ticket for the Bunkyo Azalea Festival?

A: Yes, there is a ¥500 admission fee to enter the azalea garden. Children of elementary school age and younger are free when accompanied by an adult.

Q: Is it kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s a great spot for families. The shrine grounds are spacious, and children will love the vibrant colors of the azaleas. However, be aware that there are many stairs and some gravel paths, which might be challenging for strollers.

Q: Is there shelter from the rain at the Bunkyo Azalea Festival?

The azalea garden itself is outdoors with no cover. While some buildings on the shrine grounds like the main hall have roofs, it’s best to bring an umbrella if rain is forecast.

Q: What is the Nezu Shrine famous for?

Nezu Shrine is most famous for its stunning Azalea Festival in spring. It’s also renowned for its picturesque path of vermilion torii gates, history, and cultural heritage.

Q: How long does it take to explore the Nezu Shrine?

A typical visit to see the main grounds and walk through the torii gate path takes about 30 to 45 minutes. During the Azalea Festival, plan for at least an hour to fully enjoy the gardens.

Q: Is there a dress code for Japanese shrines?

There is no strict dress code, but as it is a place of worship, dressing respectfully is encouraged. Avoid overly revealing clothing like beachwear. Since you’ll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain, comfortable shoes are a must.