Marishiten Tokudaiji Temple, Tokyo Travel Guide

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Find serenity and good fortune at this historic Ueno temple dedicated to Marishiten, the goddess of victory and prosperity.

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Marishiten Tokudaiji Temple

Marishiten Tokudaiji Temple, a Nichiren Buddhist temple established in the early Edo period, offers a tranquil escape from the vibrant Ameyoko market in Ueno. Dedicated to Marishiten, a goddess of fortune and victory, the temple provides a peaceful space with colorful statues and a rich history.

A brief summary to Marishiten Tokudaiji Temple

4 Chome-6-2 Ueno, Taito City, 4 Chome Ueno, Tokyo, 110-0005, JP
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Monday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
Tuesday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
Wednesday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
Thursday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
Friday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
Saturday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
Sunday 6:30 am-6:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Marishiten Tokudaiji Temple.

Look for the temple entrance on a side street off Ameyoko, as it's easily missed amidst the market's activity.
Pick up a pamphlet at the temple to see a drawing of the enshrined Marishiten statue, which is not on public display.
Visit on a boar day (Ennichi) according to the Chinese zodiac for special blessings.
Take a moment to enjoy the peaceful breeze and escape the crowds after climbing the steps to the temple.

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Getting There

Walking

From JR Ueno Station, take the central exit and head towards Ameyoko shopping street. Walk through the market, keeping an eye out for a side street across from the Niki-no-Kashi sweet store. The temple entrance is a short flight of stone steps leading up from this side street. This walk is approximately 6 minutes.
Public Transport

From Ueno Station, several subway lines are within a short walking distance. Take the Ginza Line to Ueno-hirokoji Station, which is a 5-minute walk to the temple. Alternatively, from JR Okachimachi Station, the temple is just a 1-minute walk away. Subway fares range from ¥170-¥320 depending on the distance.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available around Ueno Station. A short taxi ride from Ueno Station to Marishiten Tokudaiji Temple will cost approximately ¥700-¥1000, depending on traffic. Taxi fare starts at ¥470 for the first 1,052 meters, with additional charges of ¥80 for every 237 meters.

Discover more about Marishiten Tokudaiji Temple

Marishiten Tokudaiji Temple, officially named Myosenzan Tokudaiji, is a Nichiren Buddhist temple with over 400 years of history. Founded in the early Edo period by Jikoin Nikken Shonin, it stands as a serene contrast to the lively Ameyoko shopping street below. The temple is dedicated to Marishiten, a powerful goddess believed to protect against misfortune, invite good fortune, and bestow long life and happiness.Marishiten, derived from the ancient Indian god Marici, is revered as a deity of vitality, physical fitness, and financial power. The statue of Marishiten enshrined here, believed to have been carved by Prince Shotoku, is considered too sacred to be displayed publicly. Depicted riding a charging wild boar with a raised left hand and a sword in her right, Marishiten embodies courage, strength, and speed. This imagery resonated with samurai during the Edo era, who sought her protection and strength in battle. Later, merchants and performers also worshipped her for success in business and entertainment.Despite surviving the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 and the air raids of World War II, which devastated much of eastern Tokyo, the temple building was destroyed. The current structure dates back to 1964. Visitors can still find several interesting statues on the temple grounds, including those of a wild boar, Jogyo Bosatsu, and Nichiren. The temple also designates boar days from the Chinese zodiac as Ennichi, festival days, believing that visiting on these days brings special benefits.Marishiten Tokudaiji offers a unique blend of historical and modern elements. Its location above the bustling market provides a tranquil escape, while the elevated JR Yamanote Line passing behind the statues creates a striking juxtaposition. The temple remains a popular place of worship, attracting those seeking good luck, fortune, and protection from disasters.