Akasaka-Mitsuke Walking Tour: Toyokawa Inari Shrine & Relaxing Spots

Nestled in the heart of Tokyo yet offering a welcome escape from its bustle, Akasaka-Mitsuke feels like an urban oasis. Tucked-away alleys, parks showcasing seasonal greenery, luxury hotels, historic landmarks, and beloved local eateries all dot the neighborhood, creating a unique blend of serenity and sophistication.
This walking tour begins and ends at Akasaka-Mitsuke Station, tracing a gentle semi-circular route that takes you through Shimizudani Park, the Japanese Garden at Hotel New Otani, Toyokawa Inari Shrine, Toraya Akasaka shop, and the charming café Shirotae. By the time you loop back to the station, you’ll see a side of Akasaka you’ve never experienced before.
If you’re looking for a relaxed stroll amid city life, this is the perfect course to unwind and discover hidden gems in central Tokyo.

Akasaka-Mitsuke Walking Tour Route

A. Akasaka-mitsuke Station
B. Shimizudani Park
C. Hotel New Otani Japan Garden
D. Toyokawa Inari
E. Toraya Akasaka
F. Shirotae

Akasaka-Mitsuke Walking Tour Start

A. Akasaka-Mitsuke Station

Akasaka-Mitsuke Station is a convenient interchange served by the Tokyo Metro Ginza and Marunouchi lines. With excellent connections to major hubs like Shinjuku and Ginza, it’s widely used by both tourists and business travelers.

The surrounding neighborhood blends historic streetscapes with contemporary architecture, creating a distinctive urban atmosphere. The name “Akasaka-Mitsuke” derives from the mitsuke (guard post) of the Akasaka Imperial Gate that once stood here in the Edo period, adding a layer of historical interest to the area.
This is where our walking tour begins—stepping away from the city’s hustle and uncovering Akasaka’s hidden delights. After exiting the station, let’s wander over to our first stop, Shimizudani Park.

B. Shimizudani Park: An Oasis of Tranquil Nature and History

Just a few minutes’ walk from Akasaka-Mitsuke Station, Shimizudani Park offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. This lush green space not only surrounds you with calm nature but also preserves an important chapter of Japan’s past.

Shimizudani Park is known as the site where Meiji-era statesman Toshimichi Ōkubo was assassinated. On May 14, 1878 (Meiji 11), Ōkubo—who was driving political reform—was unexpectedly attacked here in Shimizudani, bringing his life to an end. To commemorate this event, the park features a stone monument called the Ōkubo Toshimichi Incident Monument, whose inscription recounts the circumstances of that day and quietly invites visitors to reflect on this pivotal moment in modern Japanese history.

As you wander beneath the canopy of trees, you’ll also discover the spring water and gentle streams that gave Shimizudani its name (“clear-water valley”), reminders of the area’s once-abundant natural beauty. The contrast of tranquil silence and historical resonance makes this urban oasis truly captivating.
After soaking in Shimizudani’s blend of nature and history, head next to the Japanese Garden at Hotel New Otani Tokyo for another enriching experience.

Shimizudani Park
2 Kioicho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo

C. Hotel New Otani Japan Garden: Luxurious Garden Beauty in the Heart of the City

Continuing from Shimizudani Park, you’ll enter the magnificent Japanese garden on the grounds of Hotel New Otani Tokyo. With over 400 years of history, this stroll-style garden provides a special sanctuary where you can forget the urban clamor.

Across its expansive grounds you’ll find a graceful drum bridge reflected in a tranquil pond, an atmospheric waterfall, and flower plantings that change with the seasons—together forming a living landscape reminiscent of a painting. As you wander the pathways, the gentle rush of water and birdsong will soothe your mind and restore your sense of calm.

What makes this garden truly unique is its harmonious blend of Japanese and Western design. While the traditional beauty of an Edo-period strolling garden remains at its core, postwar renovations introduced tasteful Western elements—so there’s always something new to discover. Historic stone lanterns and tea houses scattered throughout the grounds further deepen the sense of heritage.
This is the perfect spot for a leisurely pause amid seasonal splendor in the very center of Tokyo. After enjoying the luxury of Hotel New Otani Tokyo Garden, let’s continue on to Toyokawa Inari Shrine to experience a different facet of history and faith.

Hotel new otani Japan Garden
4-1, Kioi-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-8578,
Official website：Click here

D. Toyokawa Inari Tokyo Betsuin: Vermilion Tunnel of Foxes

Perhaps the most striking stop on our Akasaka walking tour is Toyokawa Inari Tokyo Betsuin. Founded in the Edo period, this temple has been cherished by visitors for centuries. While its main sanctuary stands in Toyokawa, Aichi Prefecture, the Tokyo branch is likewise renowned for its solemn grandeur and deep historical roots.

The sight of stone steps lined with vermilion lanterns is like a gateway to another world.

Step through the gate and you’ll immediately feel a serene, sacred air that makes the city noise seem a distant memory. Toyokawa Inari is a syncretic temple famed for blessings of business prosperity and household safety. Beyond the dignified main hall, the grounds are dotted with countless fox statues—divine messengers that appear to stand guard over worshippers, lending the precinct a uniquely mystical atmosphere.

Don’t miss the fox statues themselves: large and small figures adorned in red bibs, coloring the approach in vibrant vermilion. Photogenic at every turn, each statue bears its own expression, so take time to pause and capture close-up shots as you wander—exploring these fox guardians is one of the biggest delights of your visit.

Be sure to climb the old stone steps, steeped in history, up to the Oku-no-in (Inner Sanctuary). Enveloped in hushed tranquility, this secluded enclave invites silent prayer and offers a cleansing sense of calm that resonates long after you leave.

Inside the temple grounds you’ll find the Kanō Inari Sonten, a small shrine dedicated to cutting off bad luck and inviting new opportunities. Follow the lantern-lined steps in tranquil silence, offer your prayers to let go of past misfortunes, and set your intentions for fresh blessings.

Finally, join the Shichifukujin Meguri (Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage) by collecting stamps at each deity’s statue—an adorable keepsake of your stroll. Colorful banners flutter around the figures, creating yet more picture-perfect spots. How many blessings will you gather?

Next, let’s head to Toraya Akasaka to savor traditional wagashi and continue our journey through Japan’s timeless sweets culture.

Toyokawa Inari Tokyo Betsuin
1-4-7 Moto-Akasaka, Minato-ku Tokyo 107-0051
Official website：Click here

E. Toraya Akasaka: Timeless Wagashi

One of the highlights of this Akasaka walking tour is Toraya Akasaka, the Akasaka branch of a renowned Wagashi maker founded in the late Muromachi period—over 500 years ago. As an official purveyor to the Imperial Household, Toraya has earned its reputation for uncompromising quality and timeless craftsmanship.

Step inside to discover a serene interior where the warmth of traditional woodwork harmonizes with sleek, contemporary design. Spacious display cases showcase an artful array of seasonal Jōnamagashi (fresh Wagashi), Yokan (sweet bean jelly), Monaka (crispy wafer cakes), and more—each piece a testament to generations of skill. Beyond their exquisite appearance, every bite reveals layers of flavor that speak to the depth and subtlety of Japanese confectionery. Deciding which delicacy to try is part of the pleasure of visiting this shop.

Toraya Akasaka also features a tearoom where you can pair your wagashi with expertly prepared matcha or Japanese tea. If you have a moment to linger, this is the perfect spot to pause, savor the sweetness, and reflect on your Akasaka adventures.
Indulge in this living tradition of Japanese sweets before we continue on to Shirotae, our next stop.

Toraya Akasaka store
4-9-22 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Official website：Click here

F. Shirotae: Akasaka’s Retro Sweet Spot

The perfect finale to your Akasaka stroll is Shirotae, a Western-style confectionery shop that has been beloved in this neighborhood since its founding. Its signature cheesecake, in particular, has captivated countless fans with its smooth texture and rich flavor.

From the moment you approach, Shirotae’s storefront exudes a nostalgic, retro charm—as if you’ve stepped back into the Showa era. Even in photos, its warm, time-worn facade entices you to come inside.
Inside, the cozy tearoom feels like a hidden hideaway, yet there’s always a line of eager customers. Reviews insist it’s “worth the wait,” and once you taste that cheesecake—with its melt-in-your-mouth creaminess—you’ll understand why patrons return again and again.
Shirotae draws not only local regulars but also visitors from afar. Its beautifully packaged sweets make for ideal Akasaka souvenirs. If the café seating is full, you can easily enjoy your treats to go—perfect for carrying along on the rest of your walk.

Each pastry at Shirotae is crafted with care, offering a simple yet comforting sweetness that deepens the fond memories of your Akasaka adventure. Be sure to experience its special charm for yourself.

Shirotae
4-1-4 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo

Akasaka-Mitsuke is an urban oasis packed with history, nature, and delicious local gems. Follow this route and you’re sure to uncover plenty of Akasaka’s hidden charms. On your next day off, why not enjoy a relaxed, grown-up stroll around Akasaka-Mitsuke?

Akasaka-Mitsuke Walking Tour Route

※This walk includes places that require a worship fee