Azabusan Zenpukuji, Hitachi Travel Guide

4.2 (246)

Discover Tokyo's oldest temple, a serene escape with a giant ginkgo tree and a rich history of US-Japan relations in the heart of Azabu.

Home
Travel Guides
Japan
Hitachi
Azabusan Zenpukuji

Azabusan Zenpukuji is a historic Buddhist temple in Tokyo's Minato City, founded in 824 AD. Known for its serene atmosphere and ancient ginkgo tree, it offers a peaceful escape from the city bustle and played a significant role in early US-Japan relations.

A brief summary to Azabusan Zenpukuji

1 Chome-6-21 Motoazabu, Minato City, 1 Chome Motoazabu, Tokyo, 106-0046, JP
Click to display
Click to display

Monday 7:30 am-5 pm
Tuesday 7:30 am-5 pm
Wednesday 7:30 am-5 pm
Thursday 7:30 am-5 pm
Friday 7:30 am-5 pm
Saturday 7:30 am-5 pm
Sunday 7:30 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Azabusan Zenpukuji.

Visit early in the morning for a quiet and peaceful experience.
Explore the gardens, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.
Respect the temple's customs and dress modestly when visiting.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Azabu Hikawa Shrine

Roppongi Sakura-zaka

Roppongi Keyakizaka St.

Otafukuzaka

Mohri Garden

Explore Azabusan Zenpukuji on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Azabusan Zenpukuji, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Azabu-Juban Station (Tokyo Metro Nanboku Line or Toei Oedo Line), Zenpukuji Temple is a 5-10 minute walk. From the Azabu-Juban Station, take exit 1 for the Nanboku Line or exit 7 for the Oedo Line. Follow the signs towards Zenpukuji Temple. The cost for a single subway fare in Tokyo typically ranges from ¥120 to ¥300 depending on the distance. Consider purchasing a day pass for unlimited travel if you plan to visit multiple locations.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Minato City. From Azabu-Juban Station, a short taxi ride to Zenpukuji Temple will cost approximately ¥730 to ¥900, plus a possible late-night surcharge. Taxi apps such as Go, S-Ride, and Uber are available. Note that Uber only calls professional taxi drivers in Japan.
Walking

From Hiroo Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line), Zenpukuji Temple is approximately a 15-minute walk. Exit the station and walk towards Motoazabu, following signs for Zenpukuji Temple.

Discover more about Azabusan Zenpukuji

Azabusan Zenpukuji, formally known as Azabu-san Zenpukuji, is a Buddhist temple with a rich history stretching back over 1,200 years. Founded in 824 AD by Kōbō Daishi (Kūkai) during the Heian period, it was initially associated with the Shingon school of Buddhism. Later, in the Kamakura period, it transitioned to the Jodo Shinshu (True Pure Land School). It is considered one of the oldest temples in Tokyo.The temple is located in the Azabu district of Minato City, from which the district's name is derived. Zenpukuji offers a tranquil environment that belies its central location. The grounds are home to a massive ginkgo tree, estimated to be around 750 years old, designated as a natural monument of Japan. Legend says the monk Shinran planted the tree.During the Bakumatsu period (late Edo period) in 1859, Zenpukuji served as the first Tokyo Legation of the United States. Townsend Harris, the first United States Consul General to Japan, resided here. The temple was also frequented by figures who helped build modern Japan, including Takashi Masuda, Ichibei Furukawa, and Yukichi Fukuzawa.