Founded in 1730 by Tokugawa Yoshimune, this small shrine in Akasaka near modern day Roppongi would not come across to some as a major shrine in the Tokyo area, but it's history suggests otherwise since it was founded by one of the Tokugawa shoguns. Together with other shrines like Kanda Jinja, it creates a ring around central Tokyo.

For the casual: 4. For the educated: 4.

Hikawa Jinja is not a major beauty as a shrine. Sure its architecture is similar to that of Nezu Jinja and Nikko Tôshôgû, but the complex is very small and doesn't have the same presence as the other two. It is still a great little place to visit off the beaten path with a great grove of trees.