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Daien-ji Temple: A Historical Sanctuary in Meguro

Discover tranquility at Daien-ji Temple in Meguro, Tokyo, a historical site with hundreds of Buddha statues and a serene atmosphere.

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Daien-ji, a Buddhist temple in Meguro, Tokyo, offers a tranquil escape with its numerous statues, including the Gohyaku Rakan (500 disciples of Buddha), and a rich history marked by the Great Meiwa Fire of 1772. It's a significant cultural property and a stop on the Yamate Seven Deities of Good Fortune pilgrimage.

A brief summary to Daien-ji

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to experience the temple grounds in tranquility before the crowds arrive.
  • Take your time to admire the craftsmanship of the Buddha statues and the intricate details of the temple's architecture.
  • Check for any special events or ceremonies happening during your visit for a unique cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Daien-ji Temple is located a 5-minute walk from Meguro Station. Exit Meguro Station and walk west towards the Meguro River. The temple is located in a narrow street on the eastern side of the river.

  • Public Transport

    From Shibuya Station, take the Tokyu Railways train to Gakugei-daigaku Station. The journey takes approximately 7 minutes and costs between ¥100-¥240. From there, it is a short walk to Daien-ji Temple. Alternatively, a bus from 清水(Shimizu) to 馬場先門(Baba Sakimon) costs ¥220 and takes about 39 minutes.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Meguro Station to Daien-ji Temple is a short ride, costing approximately ¥730-¥900. Taxi fares in Tokyo start at ¥500 for the first kilometer, with additional charges per distance covered.

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Discover more about Daien-ji

Daien-ji Temple, nestled in Meguro City, is a serene Buddhist temple that embodies traditional Japanese spirituality and architecture. Founded in the 17th century, Daien-ji has a rich history, intertwined with the development of Japanese Buddhism and the arts. The temple is known for being the origin point of the Great Meiwa Fire of 1772, a devastating blaze that destroyed a large portion of Edo (old Tokyo). To honor the victims, the temple commissioned 520 stone statues, each with a unique expression, representing the Gohyaku Rakan, or the 500 disciples of Buddha. These statues, along with a small pond, create a serene atmosphere. Daien-ji enshrines Daikokuten, the God of wealth, and features other notable statues such as Toroke Jizo, believed to melt away worries, and Mizuko Jizo, protectors of children. The temple also has a statue of Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of Healing, and Doso-shin, the Traveler's Guardian Deity. The three monkeys embodying 'Mizaru' (see not), 'Iwazaru' (say not), and 'Kikizaru' (hear not) can also be seen here. Daienji is a national historical site and a significant cultural property. It is one of Edo's three great Daikoku temples and a popular stop on the Yamate Seven Deities of Good Fortune pilgrimage.

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