Zōjō-ji Temple: A Tokugawa Legacy Under Tokyo Tower
Explore Tokyo's Zōjō-ji Temple: A historic Buddhist sanctuary and Tokugawa family temple beneath the iconic Tokyo Tower.
Zōjō-ji Temple, nestled in the heart of Tokyo near the iconic Tokyo Tower, is a Jōdo-shū Buddhist temple with a rich history dating back to 1393. Originally founded as a seminary for the Pure Land sect of Buddhism, it rose to prominence during the Edo period when Tokugawa Ieyasu designated it as his family temple. Six Tokugawa shoguns are buried within its grounds, solidifying its importance in Japanese history. While most of the temple's structures are post-World War II reconstructions, the Sangedatsumon gate, dating back to 1622, stands as the oldest wooden building in Tokyo and an Important Cultural Property. This impressive gate symbolizes liberation from greed, hatred, and foolishness. The temple grounds also feature the Daiden (main hall), rebuilt in 1974, housing a large Amida Buddha statue. Visitors can explore the Treasure Gallery, which displays artifacts like paintings by Kanō Kazunobu and a model of the Taitoku-in Mausoleum. The temple also has a garden featuring rows of Jizo statues, representing unborn children, adorned with clothing and toys by grieving parents. Zōjō-ji continues to be an active center for Buddhist practice and a cultural landmark, hosting various events and festivals throughout the year.
Local tips
- Visit the Sangedatsumon gate, the oldest wooden structure in Tokyo, for a glimpse into the temple's original architecture.
- Explore the Treasure Gallery to see historical artifacts and a model of the Tokugawa Mausoleum.
- Take a moment at the Jizo statues, a poignant display honoring unborn children.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Tokyo Tower and Shiba Park for a full day of sightseeing.
A brief summary to Zōjō-ji
- 4 Chome-7-35 Shibakoen, Minato City, 4 Chome Shibakoen, Tokyo, 105-0011, JP
- +813-3432-1431
- 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
Zōjō-ji Temple is easily accessible by public transport. The closest subway stations are Onarimon Station (Toei Mita Line, 3-minute walk) and Daimon Station (Toei Oedo Line, 6-minute walk). Hamamatsucho Station (JR Yamanote and Keihin-Tohoku Lines) is about a 10-minute walk away. From any of these stations, follow the signs to Zōjō-ji Temple. A single subway fare in Tokyo typically costs between ¥160-¥320 depending on the distance. A JR train ride from Hamamatsucho Station to other parts of Tokyo will also cost around ¥140-¥300.
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Walking
From Tokyo Tower, Zōjō-ji Temple is a short walk. Exit Tokyo Tower and walk towards Shiba Park. Zōjō-ji Temple is located within Shiba Park, and you can easily reach the temple grounds by following the walking paths. There are no specific costs associated with walking, as access to the temple grounds is free.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Tokyo. If you are coming from a nearby location such as Ginza Station, take a taxi. The taxi fare from Ginza Station to Zōjō-ji Temple will be approximately ¥1,900-¥2,400. Be aware that traffic conditions can affect the final fare.
