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Shinobazunoike Benten-do: A Tranquil Temple in Ueno Park

Discover tranquility at Shinobazunoike Benten-do in Ueno Park, Tokyo, a beautiful temple dedicated to Benzaiten, the goddess of music and art.

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Shinobazunoike Benten-do is a captivating Buddhist temple located on an island in Shinobazu Pond, within Ueno Park in Tokyo. Dedicated to Benzaiten, the goddess of music, art, and knowledge, it offers a serene escape with its striking red facade and peaceful atmosphere.

A brief summary to Shinobazunoike Benten-do

  • 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

Local tips

  • Visit during the summer to see the lotus flowers in full bloom around the pond.
  • Look for the stone monuments dedicated to water birds, turtles and fish, representing the pond's history as a 'Pond of Release'.
  • Take a stroll around Shinobazu Pond for varied seasonal views. In winter, the pond may be snow-covered, while spring brings clear reflections of the temple.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From JR Ueno Station's Park Exit, walk straight into Ueno Park. Follow the path towards Shinobazu Pond. The temple is located on an island in the pond and is accessible via walkways on the east and west sides. The walk is approximately 6 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Tokyo Station, take the JR Yamanote Line to Ueno Station (approx. 10 minutes, ¥160). Exit Ueno Station via the Park Exit and follow the walking directions. Alternatively, take the Tokyo Metro Ginza or Hibiya line to Ueno Station and follow the walking directions.

  • Taxi

    From within Ueno Park, a taxi to Shinobazunoike Benten-do is not practical due to pedestrianized areas. From Tokyo Station, a taxi to Ueno Park will cost approximately ¥2,620 for a 5km ride. From the taxi drop-off point at Ueno Park, follow the walking directions.

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Discover more about Shinobazunoike Benten-do

Shinobazunoike Benten-do, an oasis of calm in bustling Tokyo, is a Buddhist temple dedicated to Benzaiten, the goddess of music, wealth, wisdom and the arts. Located on an island in Shinobazu Pond within Ueno Park, the temple's history dates back to 1625, when Buddhist monk Tenkai of Kaneiji Temple founded it, modeling the area after Enryakuji Temple and Lake Biwa near Kyoto. He likened Ueno to Mount Hiei, Shinobazu Pond to Lake Biwa, and the island to Chikubushima Island in Lake Biwa. The temple grounds feature the octagonal main hall, a reconstruction from 1958 after the original was destroyed in World War II, and a hall dedicated to Daikokuten, a deity revered by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Visitors can admire the statue of Ugajin, a deity associated with Benzaiten, and explore the surrounding pond filled with lotus flowers. The temple is accessed via walkways, and the island was initially only accessible by boat. Shinobazunoike Benten-do provides a cultural experience, drawing visitors with its architecture and tranquil setting. The temple is open from 9:00 to 17:00, and at night the temple is illuminated by traditional Japanese lamps. Various festivals and events occur in front of the temple every year, where visitors can enjoy food.

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