Yushima Tenjin Chrysanthemum Festival Photography

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Yushima Tenmangu Shrine decorated with tiered chrysanthemum displays for the Bunkyo Kiku Matsuri under a clear blue sky. — *Yushima Tenjin’s main hall*

In autumn 2021, I checked out the Yushima Tenjin chrysanthemums. Earlier that day, I visited Shinjuku Gyoen to see its flowers. At that time, the weather was perfect. I lucked out as the conditions continued into the afternoon. It was an excellent day for photography. I was more than happy at the end of it.

Cascading teardrop display of pink and yellow chrysanthemums against a wooden structure in bright sunlight. — *Kengai chrysanthemums falling to the ground*

Quiet weekday shooting at the shrine

As it was a weekday, the shrine wasn’t too crowded. Some had come to pray. But most wanted to see these pretty flowers. I’m sure they were impressed. What made me happy was not having to wait to take photos.

Tiered display of prize-winning chrysanthemums in yellow, white, and pink with competition ribbons.

Comparing Tokyo flower displays

The chrysanthemums were excellent. They were as good as the ones I saw at Shinjuku Gyoen. The only difference was the way they were displayed.

Close-up of a pale pink incurved chrysanthemum with tightly curled petals against a blurred floral background.

Observations about Yushima Tenjin

I hope you don’t mind me voicing a complaint. Yushima Tenjin has one flaw. Concrete surrounds the shrine. More grass would be nice. The only “green” is near the plum blossom grove at the back, but it is pretty barren in autumn.

Large dome-shaped displays of white and purple spider chrysanthemums along a bamboo fence.

It isn’t a huge problem, though. The pretty chrysanthemums and the shrine occupy your eyes. I’ve only started to notice the concrete recently. Maybe I’d been to the shrine so many times I was blind to it.

Wooden bridge walkway at a shrine lined with colorful rounded chrysanthemum displays under a clear blue sky.

If you are looking for something more “natural,” there is another shrine that fits the bill. You could visit Omiya Hachimangu in Suginami ward. It has far more trees. Some might find it a little far out in the suburbs, though. Here, you are near Ueno. So, once you finish your visit, you won’t have far to go to see something.

Visitors at Yushima Tenjin chrysanthemum festival, with large displays on both sides.

Mastering kengai and ogiku styles

Anyway, it didn’t detract from the displays. The ozukuri and ogiku were fabulous. I like them a lot. But, this time, they were outdone by the kengai.

Large teardrop-shaped display of pink chrysanthemums beside a Japanese wooden sign under a blue crest flag.

Kengai are hundreds of tiny flowers draped over a slightly arched lattice. They look like they are hanging over a cliff. These displays can be up to two meters in length. Some were on the shrine’s steps, and they looked marvelous.

Large dome-shaped display of yellow and red chrysanthemums with individual wire supports beside a wooden sign.

Traditional entertainment and monkey shows

As always, there was a monkey show at Yushima Tenjin Chrysanthemums 2021. The cute guy put on a slapstick and acrobatic routine in front of an appreciative crowd. This type of entertainment is still popular in Japan.

Japanese macaque wearing a red and black performance vest with a bow, looking directly at the camera.

If you have seen chrysanthemums at any of the exhibits in Tokyo, please tell us about your visit. We’d love to hear about your experiences. If you are looking for more information about this shrine, check [Yushima Tenjin: Plum Blossom & Chrysanthemum Photo Guide].