Shrines in Tokyo

Rice balls symbolize fate and relationship at this adorable shrine, which was once dedicated to the Buddhist Devil.

A lonely chimpanzee lures you into a narrow alley leading to this hidden shrine.

A unique shrine dedicated to the deified skull of a 17th-century Tokyo courtesan.

Only recently added to the shrine, this googly-eyed snail demon of unknown origin is said to have eye-healing powers.

Rubbing salt on this small stone dog is said to make wishes come true.

Losing lottery tickets are deposited at this shrine in hopes of better luck.

A miniature shrine in the busy corner of Tokyo's historic Broadway, honoring a sextet of unusual entertainment gods.

One of the few surviving World War II-era air-raid shelters in Tokyo.

A cursed torii gate still stands on the edge of Haneda Airport, decades after its shrine's relocation.

A shrine dedicated to a 10th-century samurai emperor, whose head is not buried on site (contrary to popular belief).

A 17th-century Shinto shrine that is home to statues of Mickey Mouse and Pikachu.

The remains of the vast manor that once belonged to Lord Kira, villain in the 47 Ronin story, is now a shrine dedicated to the incident.

This shrine dedicated to a legendary swordsman has become a pilgrimage site for the ill and infirmed.

This tiny stone in a children's park is what remains of an ancient, once-worshipped object.

People from around the world visit the shrine of Japan’s legendarily loyal dog.

This ordinary set of steps is a must-see destination for fans of a certain romantic anime.