3 spots to visit in Ochanomizu Area

Just a 10-minute walk from JR Akihabara Station, or a quick 2-minute ride on the JR Chuo Line, lies one of Tokyo’s most culturally rich and spiritually diverse neighborhoods—Ochanomizu.

The name “Ochanomizu,” which means “tea water,” dates back to the Edo period, when high-quality spring water from this area was said to have been used in tea ceremonies by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the shogun who founded modern Tokyo. Today, Ochanomizu is a vibrant district filled with universities, specialty shops, and office buildings, bustling with people on weekdays.

But what truly sets Ochanomizu apart is its rare concentration of religious sites from different faiths, all within walking distance. It’s one of the few places in Tokyo where you can visit a Shinto shrine, a Christian cathedral, and a Confucian temple—all in a single afternoon.

For travelers looking to explore religious culture in Tokyo or experience multiple spiritual traditions in one place, Ochanomizu offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity.

While it may not appear to be a major tourist destination at first glance, Ochanomizu is a deeply fascinating area where tradition and diversity quietly thrive. It's no surprise that it draws visitors from Japan and around the world—especially those seeking spiritual insight and cultural depth.

In this article, we’ll introduce three must-visit religious and historical landmarks in Ochanomizu that reveal the area's rich spiritual heritage and multi-faith harmony.