Hidden Garden in Harajuku

The Togo Shrine, dedicated to one of Japan's greatest naval admirals, lies just off the chaotic and cramped thoroughfare of Takeshita Street (Takeshita-dori) in Harajuku. Yet its inner courtyard and grounds provide a quiet sanctuary from the bustle of the boulevards nearby. Don't miss the lovely Japanese-style garden to the east of the main shrine. A pond, a wooden bridge, a trellis and a few lanterns all combine to make a picturesque scene, especially when the lights of the shrine's event complex shine on the water's surface. The garden is little-visited and the perfect place to gather your courage before returning to the crush of the Harajuku neighborhood.