Marishiten Tokudaiji Temple: a surprise find in Ameyoko Market

Tokudaiji Marishiten temple is a small, picturesque, gaily painted temple in a very unusual market setting

Marishiten Tokudaiji (特大寺 摩利支天) Temple is a small but highly atmospheric Buddhist temple nestled in the bustling Ueno Ameyoko Market area. Dedicated to Marishiten, a goddess of light, prosperity, and protection (particularly for warriors and those seeking victory), this temple offers a surprisingly serene spiritual retreat amidst the market's lively chaos. The vibe here is intimate and sacred, a popular spot for locals seeking blessings for business success or protection from harm. You should definitely visit to experience a unique blend of urban energy and spiritual calm, and perhaps offer a prayer for good fortune!

Getting there: Where is Marishiten Tokudaiji Temple?

The temple is very easy to reach but you may overlook it at first.

• Nearest station: 

  • Ueno-Hirokoji Station (上野広小路駅) on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line - about a 1-minute walk.

  • Ueno-okachimachi Station (上野御徒町駅) on the Toei Oedo Line - about a 1-minute walk.

  • Okachimachi Station (御徒町駅) on the JR Yamanote Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line - about a 3-minute walk.

  • Ueno Station (上野駅) on the JR Yamanote Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, Ginza Line, Hibiya Line, Tohoku Shinkansen, etc.) - about a 10-15 minute walk through Ueno Park.

• By taxi: A taxi can drop you off at the entrance to Ameyoko market. There is no direct access by car to the temple itself.

• Accessibility: The temple can only be accessed by climbing a short but steep flight of stone steps. The surrounding area is also very crowded.

  
  

Opening hours & best time to visit

• Opening hours: The temple is generally open from 6:30 AM until 6:30 PM. This can change when special events are being held.

• Best time to visit: 

  • Early morning: Ameyoko market, which surrounds the temple, can get very busy but the temple opens much earlier than the shops so beat the crowds and you may have the temple all to yourself.

  • The temple has a special connection to the boar of the Chinese zodiac and visiting on "boar days" is said to bring an extra portion of good luck. These dates change every year but are listed on the temple's website.

• Time to avoid: There's no specific "time to avoid," but the surrounding market can get very busy in the later mornings and afternoons.

Reservations & Admission

Visiting the shrine is free of charge.

• Reservations: No reservations are needed.

• Admission price: You don't have to pay to visit the temple. Omamori amulets cost around ¥1000

  
  

What Can You See & Do at Toshogu Shrine?

Marishiten Tokudaiji Temple is a small, vibrant temple that feels like a hidden gem amidst the bustling Ameyoko market. Its main deity, Marishiten, is a guardian deity often depicted with multiple arms, riding a wild boar. She is believed to offer protection from misfortune, grant victory in competition, and bring prosperity to businesses. Many local merchants visit here to pray for success. The temple's compact size and immediate proximity to the lively market create a fascinating contrast – a pocket of spiritual tranquility in a commercial whirlwind.

• The Main Hall: With its intricate details and the image of Marishiten.

• Boar statues: Keep an eye out for these unique representations.

• Atmosphere: The contrast between the temple's quietude and the market's energy.

Japansophy’s Top Tips!

• Grab yourself some good luck: The temple is particularly associated with good luck, wild-boar-like strength and success. The omamori charms here make great souvenirs for those who could use that little extra luck in winning. Purchase is generally cash only.

• Ameyoko market is a confusing rabbit-warren of streets. If you have trouble finding Marishiten Temple, look out for the giant "Niki no Kashi" confectionery store. The temple is right beside it.

  
  

Facilities:

The temple itself doesn't offer much in the way of facilities, but you're in a major hub, so you won't have to look too far.

• Eating & drinking: No specific facilities within the temple, but you are literally surrounded by countless food stalls, restaurants, and convenience stores in the Ameyoko market.

• Toilets: Public restrooms are available in Okamachi station , for example, which is just a minute's walk away.

• Baby-changing facilities: Baby-changing facilities and nursing rooms are available in the nearby train stations

Other Attractions Nearby:

This small temple won't keep you busy for long but there's plenty more to explore.

• Ameyoko Market: A bustling street market selling everything from fresh seafood and street food to clothing and electronics.

• Ueno Park: Home to numerous museums (Tokyo National Museum, National Museum of Nature and Science), Ueno Zoo, and Ueno Toshogu Shrine.

  
  

Planning your Tokyo adventure and curious to discover both its vibrant markets and hidden spiritual gems? Our expertly designed Tokyo itineraries guide you through essential experiences in districts like Ueno, ensuring you experience the best of the city's unique charm!