Sengaku-ji: A Sacred Sanctuary of History and Serenity
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Sengaku-ji, Tokyo's iconic Buddhist temple linked to the legendary 47 Ronin.
Sengaku-ji, a prominent Buddhist temple located in Tokyo, is not only a place of worship but also a historical monument that resonates with the tales of loyalty and honor from Japan's feudal era. Established in 1680, this temple is best known as the final resting place of the 47 Ronin, whose legendary story of revenge has captivated the hearts of many. As you enter the temple grounds, you are greeted by a serene atmosphere, enhanced by the meticulously maintained gardens that invite contemplation and reflection. The temple features a tranquil graveyard where the graves of the 47 Ronin lie, each marked with an inscription detailing their heroic tale. Visitors often pay their respects by bowing before these graves, adding to the solemn ambiance of the site. Sengaku-ji also houses a museum that showcases artifacts related to the Ronin's story, providing deeper insights into Japanese history and culture. For tourists, Sengaku-ji serves as a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. The temple grounds offer a beautiful setting for leisurely walks and are especially picturesque during cherry blossom season. It is advisable to arrive early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility before the crowds descend. Additionally, nearby cafes and shops offer opportunities to sample local delicacies and souvenirs, complementing your visit to this iconic site.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and better photo opportunities.
- Take time to read the inscriptions on the graves of the 47 Ronin for a deeper understanding of their story.
- Explore the small museum on site to learn more about the history of Sengaku-ji and the artifacts related to the Ronin.
A brief summary to Sengaku-ji
- 2 Chome-11-1 Takanawa, Minato City, 2 Chome Takanawa, Tokyo, 108-0074, JP
- +813-3441-5560
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-4 pm
- Thursday 7 am-4 pm
- Friday 7 am-4 pm
- Saturday 7 am-4 pm
- Sunday 7 am-4 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from central Mikawa, take the Route 23 highway towards Nagoya. Continue on Route 23 for approximately 30 kilometers until you reach the junction for Route 1. Merge onto Route 1 (Tōmei Expressway) and follow the signs towards Tokyo. After about 150 kilometers, take the exit for Shinjuku and keep following signs for Minato City. Sengaku-ji is located at 2 Chome-11-1 Takanawa, Minato City, Tokyo 108-0074. There is limited parking available near the temple, so plan to arrive early to secure a spot.
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Public Transportation
From Mikawa Station, take the JR Tokaido Line towards Tokyo. After about 2 hours, transfer at Shinagawa Station to the Keikyu Line. Take the Keikyu Main Line to Sengakuji Station, which is approximately 10 minutes away. Once you arrive at Sengakuji Station, exit the station and walk approximately 5 minutes to reach Sengaku-ji Temple, located at 2 Chome-11-1 Takanawa, Minato City, Tokyo 108-0074. The total cost for this journey is around 2,000 yen, depending on the specific trains taken.
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Taxi
For a more direct route, you can take a taxi from anywhere in Mikawa to Sengaku-ji. This option is convenient and will take approximately 2 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic. The estimated fare is around 20,000 to 25,000 yen. Make sure to provide the driver with the address: 2 Chome-11-1 Takanawa, Minato City, Tokyo 108-0074.
