Fukagawa-Enmado Temple: A Sanctuary of Serenity in Tokyo
Discover tranquility at Fukagawa-Enmado Temple in Tokyo's Koto City, a serene escape with rich spiritual heritage and beautiful architecture.
Fukagawa-Enmado Temple, officially Hōjōin Fukagawa Enmadō, is a Buddhist temple in the Kōtō ward of Tokyo, offering a serene retreat from the urban sprawl. Founded in 1629, the temple was initially located elsewhere before being moved to its current location shortly after construction. It is part of the Buzan division of the Shingon sect of Buddhism. Fukagawa-Enmado is one of the 88 temples in Edo (Tokyo) that replicate the Shikoku Pilgrimage, where each temple is associated with the Buddhist monk Kūkai. The temple is known for enshrining a 3.5-meter tall and 4.5-meter wide statue of Enma-Daiō, the King of Hell, the largest of its kind in Japan. Visitors can offer money for various blessings and receive advice from Enma Daiō in Japanese. Inside the main temple, the 地獄極楽絵 (jigoku-gokuraku-e), a print completed in 1784 by artist Sōan during the Edo period, illustrates the principles of karma. The surrounding Fukagawa area, part of the Edo-era shitamachi (downtown), provides a glimpse into Tokyo's historical charm, with quaint shops and cafes offering authentic Japanese cuisine.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and to avoid crowds.
- Participate in seasonal festivals for a unique insight into Japanese culture and Buddhist practices.
- Wear comfortable shoes to explore the gardens and temple grounds.
- Respect local customs, such as bowing before entering the temple area.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and serene landscapes.
A brief summary to Fukagawa-Enmado Temple
- 2 Chome-16-3 Fukagawa, Koto City, 2 Chome Fukagawa, Tokyo, 135-0033, JP
- +813-3641-1652
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach Fukagawa-Enmado Temple via public transportation, take the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line or the Toei Subway Oedo Line to Monzen-Nakacho Station. From Monzen-Nakacho Station, it's approximately a 2-minute walk from Exit 1. Alternatively, from Fukagawa Station, take the East Exit and walk straight for about 10 minutes. A single subway fare in Tokyo typically costs between ¥170 and ¥320, depending on the distance.
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Walking
From the Monzen-Nakacho Station, take exit 1 and walk towards the red Narita-san gate. The temple is a short walk from here. Walking is free, allowing you to explore the surrounding neighborhood.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Tokyo. A short taxi ride from nearby locations such as Kiyosumi-Shirakawa or Monzen-Nakacho to Fukagawa-Enmado Temple will typically cost between ¥730 to ¥1000. The initial fare is ¥500 for the first kilometer, with additional charges per distance.
