Zojoji Temple: Where Ancient Serenity Meets Modern Icons
- japansophy
- 6 days ago
- 6 min read
Prepare for a truly iconic Tokyo photo op, because Zojoji Temple (増上寺) offers a stunning blend of ancient serenity and modern marvels! This historically significant Buddhist temple, standing proudly in Shiba Park, is not only the main temple of the Jodo-shu sect but also boasts the magnificent Tokyo Tower as its dramatic backdrop. Imagine centuries-old temple architecture framed by a dazzling red-and-white tower—it's a visual symphony that perfectly encapsulates Tokyo's unique charm!
The history of Zojoji is deeply intertwined with that of the Tokugawa shogunate. The temple was moved to its current location by Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1598 to serve as his family's temple, becoming a place of great importance and power. It was here that six of the fifteen Tokugawa shoguns were buried, and though many of the original structures were destroyed by war and fire, the main hall and gates have been meticulously reconstructed to their former glory. As you wander the temple grounds, you'll encounter the serene atmosphere of a spiritual oasis, with the scent of incense and the quiet hum of reverence. A particularly poignant and beautiful sight is the Sengodai Jizo garden, filled with hundreds of small stone statues of Jizo, the protector of children and travellers, often adorned with pinwheels and children's clothing as offerings. Zojoji is a peaceful, spiritual sanctuary where you can connect with Japan's deep past while gazing at its futuristic present.
Getting there – where is Zojoji Temple?
Zojoji Temple is wonderfully easy to reach, nestled right by one of Tokyo's most famous landmarks.
Nearest station: The temple is within easy walking distance of several subway stations:
Onarimon Station (御成門駅) on the Toei Mita Line (closest, about 3-5 minutes walk).
Daimon Station (大門駅) on the Toei Asakusa Line and Toei Oedo Line (about 5-8 minutes walk).
Shiba-koen Station (芝公園駅) on the Toei Mita Line (about 5-8 minutes walk).
Akabanebashi Station (赤羽橋駅) on the Toei Oedo Line (about 10 minutes walk).
By taxi: Taxis can drop you off directly at the temple's main gate.
Accessibility: The main temple grounds are generally flat and wide, making them very accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. While some smaller sub-temples or specific areas might involve a few steps, the primary areas of interest are easily navigable. Wheelchair users should use a side entrance in the small street to the right of the main entrance to avoid the steps and gravel area of the main entrance.
Opening hours & best time to visit
Zojoji Temple is generally open to visitors throughout the day, offering peaceful moments from morning to evening.
Opening hours: The main temple grounds and the Main Hall are typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The grounds themselves are usually accessible even outside these hours for peaceful strolls. Always check their official website for any specific seasonal variations or special closures.
Best time to visit:
Morning: Visiting earlier in the day offers a more tranquil experience with fewer crowds, perfect for quiet contemplation and photography.
Spring (late March to early April): If you happen to visit during cherry blossom season, the sight of the temple with the pink blooms and Tokyo Tower in the background is absolutely breathtaking – a truly iconic Japanese scene!
Evening: While the Main Hall might be closed, seeing the temple's imposing gates illuminated against the backdrop of a sparkling Tokyo Tower at night creates a magical atmosphere.
Time to avoid: While generally less crowded than some other major attractions, the area around Tokyo Tower can get busy on weekends. If you prefer solitude, weekdays are your best bet.
Reservations & admission
Visiting Zojoji Temple is wonderfully straightforward and mostly free!
Reservations: No reservations are needed to visit the Zojoji Temple grounds or its main hall. You can simply walk in and explore.
Admission price: Entry to the main temple grounds and the Main Hall is free. There is a small admission fee (typically a few hundred yen) if you wish to enter the historical area of the Mausoleum of the Tokugawa Shoguns or the Treasure Museum (if open).
Payment method: For any optional admissions or for purchasing omamori (charms) or other souvenirs from the temple shop, cash is typically preferred.
What can you see & do at Zojoji Temple?
Zojoji offers a fascinating journey through centuries of Japanese history and spirituality, all framed by its famous neighbour.
Sangedatsu-mon Gate: As you approach, you'll pass through this massive, imposing main gate. It's one of the few original structures of the temple that survived the devastation of World War II and the Edo period, making it a true historical gem. Its name means "gate of the three liberations" (from greed, anger, and ignorance).
The iconic Tokyo Tower photo op: This is the shot everyone wants! Position yourself in front of the Main Hall (Honden) or the Sangedatsu-mon Gate to capture the majestic Buddhist architecture with the vibrant red-and-white Tokyo Tower rising directly behind it. It's a quintessential Tokyo image!
Main Hall (Honden): Step inside this large, modern hall to find magnificent Buddhist statues, including the principal image of Amida Buddha and the famous Black Kannon statue. The atmosphere is peaceful, inviting quiet contemplation.
Mausoleum of the Tokugawa Shoguns: Zojoji served as the family temple of the Tokugawa shoguns, who ruled Japan during the Edo period. While many original mausoleum structures were destroyed, you can visit the area containing the resting places of several shoguns and their family members. It's a poignant reminder of Japan's feudal past.
Row upon row of Jizo statues at Zojoji temple Sennin Jizo (Thousand Jizo Statues): Perhaps the most moving sight is the rows upon rows of small, stone Jizo statues. Jizo are Buddhist deities who protect children (especially those who passed away early) and travellers. Each statue is lovingly adorned with knitted hats, bibs, and pinwheels, placed there by grieving parents – it's a poignant and incredibly touching memorial.
The Big Bell (Daireisho): A massive bell weighing 15 tons, cast in 1673. Its impressive size and deep resonance add to the temple's serene ambiance.
Japansophy’s Top Tips!
Snap that iconic photo! You absolutely have to get the shot of Tokyo Tower rising behind the temple. Experiment with different angles around the Main Hall and Sangedatsu-mon Gate. Go early in the morning and you might even have the temple (almost) to yourself
Visit the Jizo statues: Take a moment to quietly observe the Sennin Jizo statues. It's a very moving and unique cultural experience.
Combine with Tokyo Tower: Since they're right next to each other, a visit to Zojoji pairs perfectly with a trip up Tokyo Tower for panoramic views.
Explore Shiba Park: The temple is nestled within Shiba Park, which is lovely for a stroll and offers more great views of the tower from ground level.
Respect the Sacred space: As an active temple, please be mindful of worshippers, keep your voice down, and avoid overly casual behaviour within the temple grounds.
Facilities:
Zojoji offers convenient facilities for visitors amidst its historical grounds.
Eating & drinking: While there isn't a large restaurant directly within the temple grounds, you'll find small shops selling light snacks, ice cream, and drinks (including vending machines). The nearby Shiba Park and Tokyo Tower's Foot Town complex offer numerous cafes and restaurants. Eating and drinking inside the temple is not allowed.
Toilets: Clean public restrooms are available within the temple grounds.
Baby-changing facilities: Dedicated baby-changing facilities are typically found in larger, more modern buildings in the vicinity, such as within Tokyo Tower's Foot Town or nearby train stations.
Other attractions nearby:
Zojoji Temple's excellent location puts you right next to some of Tokyo's most famous landmarks and green spaces.
Tokyo Tower: You can walk from Tokyo Tower to Zojoji Temple in just a few minutes.
Shiba Park: The beautiful park surrounding the temple and Tokyo Tower is perfect for a leisurely stroll and offers excellent vantage points for photos.
Hamarikyu Gardens: A short taxi ride or pleasant walk away, these stunning traditional Edo-era gardens are famous for their tidal pond and teahouse. You can even catch a water bus from here.
Roppongi Hills: A short distance away, this modern complex offers upscale shopping, dining, and the Mori Art Museum. Its observation deck provides fantastic skyline views with Tokyo Tower prominently featured!
Ready to discover Tokyo's spiritual side and capture iconic photos blending old and new? Our 3-Day Tokyo Itinerary guides you through the serene beauty of Zojoji Temple, perfectly paired with a visit to Tokyo Tower!