Explore Tokyo's sacred sites with Delta flights from major U.S. cities

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Explore Tokyo's sacred sites with Delta flights from major U.S. cities

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Hussein Berry, V.P. – Airport Operations DTW | Delta Air Lines

By Sky Industry News

Apr 2, 2025

Japan is home to over 4,000 Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, offering travelers a chance to explore its rich spiritual traditions. Within an hour of Haneda Airport, visitors can find Tokyo's diverse sacred sites that blend historical and modern elements. Three notable shrines stand out as key cultural landmarks.

Asakusa Shrine, also known as "Sanja-sama," is located in Tokyo’s Taito ward and is recognized as a National Important Cultural Property. It traces its origins to the Heian period with a current building dating back to 1649. Annually in May, the Sanja Matsuri is held here, showcasing a vibrant procession of mikoshi. English-speaking visitors can engage with cultural tours and activities, such as kimono rentals.

Meiji Jingu Shrine in Tokyo's Shibuya district, built in 1920, honors Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Known for its tranquil, man-made forest, it attracts over three million visitors during Hatsumode, marking the New Year with prayers for fortune. The Meiji Jingu Museum offers insights into Japan’s modernization through its exhibitions.

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Kanda Myojin, found in Chiyoda ward's Sotokanda neighborhood, has been a spiritual center since 730. The shrine is known for its prosperity and matchmaking charms, and it hosts Kanda Matsuri biennially. Recently, it has also focused on cybersecurity, drawing attention from Tokyo’s tech hub, Akihabara.

Visitors to these shrines often obtain amulets, known as omamori, and fortune slips called omikuji. Omamori are protective charms rooted in Heian period traditions, while omikuji offer life guidance and have been a part of shrine visits since the Kamakura period. Both practices enhance understanding of Japan’s spiritual heritage.

Etiquette at these sacred spaces involves keeping voices low and being respectful with photography. Such mindful visits connect guests with Japan’s spiritual heart.

Delta Air Lines provides daily nonstop flights to Tokyo-Haneda from several U.S. cities, including Atlanta, Detroit, and Los Angeles, facilitating visits to these spiritual sites.