Azabusan Zenpukuji, Kai Travel Guide

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Discover Tokyo's ancient Zenpukuji Temple: a serene escape with historical significance and a magnificent ancient ginkgo tree.

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Azabusan Zenpukuji

Azabusan Zenpukuji, a Jodo Shinshu Buddhist temple in Tokyo's Azabu district, boasts a history spanning over 1,200 years. Founded in 824, it's one of the city's oldest temples, featuring a historic ginkgo tree and a serene atmosphere that belies its central location.

A brief summary to Azabusan Zenpukuji

1 Chome-6-21 Motoazabu, Minato City, 1 Chome Motoazabu, Tokyo, 106-0046, JP
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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 peaceful experience and to avoid crowds.
Take time to explore the gardens, which are beautiful throughout the year.
Respect the temple's customs and dress modestly.
Look for the monument to Townsend Harris, the first American envoy to Japan.
Don't miss the 750-year-old ginkgo tree, Tokyo's oldest, within the temple grounds.

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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), the temple is a 5-10 minute walk. Exit the station and follow signs for Zenpukuji Temple. Minato City also has a community bus called "Chii-Bus" that has various routes throughout the city. A flat fare of ¥100 per ride makes this an economical option. IC cards like Suica and Pasmo are accepted on most public transportation.
Walking

From Motoazabu, Zenpukuji Temple is easily accessible on foot. Use a map app to guide you to 1 Chome-6-21 Motoazabu. The temple is located in a quiet residential area. Look for the temple gate and follow the path to the entrance.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Minato City. A short taxi ride from Roppongi or other nearby locations will cost approximately ¥730 for the first 2km, with additional fees of ¥100 for every 233 meters. Be aware that fares increase by 20% between 10 PM and 5 AM.

Discover more about Azabusan Zenpukuji

Azabusan Zenpukuji, formally named Azabusan Zenpukuji, is a Jodo Shinshu temple with a rich history dating back to 824 AD. Founded by Kōbō Daishi (Kūkai) during the Heian Period, it was initially a Shingon school of Buddhism temple. The monk Shinran visited during the Kamakura Period, leading to its conversion to Jodo Shinshu Buddhism.Located in the Azabu district of Minato City, the temple's name is the origin of the district's name. Zenpukuji is considered one of Tokyo's oldest temples, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city. The temple grounds feature Tokyo's oldest tree, a giant ginkgo, estimated to be around 750 years old and designated as a natural monument of Japan. Legend says that Shinran planted the tree by pointing to a spot with his staff.During the Bakumatsu period (late Edo period), Zenpukuji served as the first American Legation in Tokyo, with Townsend Harris as the first US Consul General. The temple was frequented by figures who shaped modern Japan, including Takashi Masuda and Yukichi Fukuzawa. The original Main Hall was donated by Tokugawa Iemitsu but was destroyed in WWII air raids. In 1961, the current Main Hall was moved from Higashi Honganji's Yao Betsuin and rebuilt. It underwent renovations in 2008 and was designated a Tangible Cultural Property of Minato-ku.