Top 3 Attractions in Hamamatsucho Area
※updated on July 19 2025
Tokyo Tower, a symbol Japan proudly shares with the world, and the historic Zojoji Temple are both popular spots in Tokyo. When visiting these places, you might find yourself passing through JR Hamamatsucho Station. Located in Minato Ward, Hamamatsucho is a business district with excellent access to Haneda Airport via the Tokyo Monorail, which starts there. It’s also served by JR’s Yamanote and Keihin-Tohoku Lines, as well as the Toei Subway, making transportation very convenient. Around the station, you’ll find office buildings and hotels, while historical sites like Shiba Park and Zojoji Temple are within walking distance. Tokyo Tower is also close enough to walk to, making Hamamatsucho a popular hub for both business and sightseeing. Here, we introduce three recommended spots in the Hamamatsucho area.
1) Zojoji Temple -Historic Temple in Tokyo
Zojoji Temple is a unique place where Japan’s rich historical culture blends with modern life, set against the backdrop of Tokyo Tower. Located in Shiba Park, Minato Ward, it is one of the head temples of the Jodo sect of Buddhism. Founded in 1393, Zojoji is famous as the family temple of the Tokugawa shoguns during the Edo period and flourished under the protection of the shogunate. Six of the fifteen Tokugawa shoguns are buried within its grounds, making it an important historical site.
The temple grounds feature majestic architecture, including the main hall and the striking red Sangedatsumon gate, which is designated as an Important Cultural Property by the Japanese government. The gate is currently undergoing extensive restoration work, the first major repair in over 50 years, expected to be completed by 2032, including repainting.
Surrounded by the towering Tokyo Tower, Zojoji offers a captivating contrast between tradition and modernity. In spring, the temple becomes a popular cherry blossom viewing spot, attracting many visitors who come to enjoy its beautiful sakura in full bloom.
2) Old Taitoku-in Mausoleum Main Gate
While the Sangedatsumon Gate at Zojoji Temple is currently under restoration, just a short walk south stands the majestic Old Taitoku-in Mausoleum Main Gate, a historic gate located in Shiba Park, Minato Ward. This gate is one of the rare surviving architectural relics from the Edo period.
Taitoku-in refers to Tokugawa Hidetada, the second shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate. His mausoleum was once located within the grounds of Zojoji Temple, and the main gate served as the grand entrance to this mausoleum, symbolizing the solemnity and grandeur of Edo-era funerary architecture.
Although many buildings were destroyed during World War II air raids, this gate miraculously survived and remains standing today. Crafted from black lacquered wood with intricate metal decorations, it reflects the advanced craftsmanship and aesthetic sensibilities of the time. The gate also houses imposing Nio guardian statues, enhancing its dignified presence. Its vivid vermilion color and striking design make it a memorable site that rivals other famous temples in Tokyo.
3) Hamarikyu Gardens
One of the charms of Japanese gardens is their tranquility. In a quiet space, you can hear only the sounds of the wind and water, allowing you to relax and enjoy a peaceful moment.
Hamarikyu Gardens is a unique garden where modern skyscrapers stand close by, creating a striking contrast between the present and history. Located in Chuo Ward, Tokyo, it is a historic Japanese garden that served as a villa for the Tokugawa shogunate during the Edo period. With a history of about 250 years, the vast grounds feature tidal ponds and seawater-filled ponds, offering a rich natural landscape amidst the urban environment.
In spring, beautiful cherry blossoms bloom, and in autumn, vibrant foliage colors the garden, allowing visitors to enjoy seasonal scenery throughout the year.
The garden also has a traditional tea house where visitors can savor matcha green tea and Japanese sweets while enjoying a quiet moment. Adjacent to Tokyo Bay, Hamarikyu Gardens is a popular place to escape the city’s hustle and bustle and find relaxation.
It is a highly recommended spot to experience Edo’s history and appreciate the traditional beauty of Japan.
The Hamamatsucho Station area features a very modern cityscape filled with towering skyscrapers. However, within this urban environment lies a rich history of Japan, with highly prestigious buildings and spaces.
This is a unique area where you can experience the world-class economic power of Tokyo while also seeing, feeling, and immersing yourself in the history of Japan and the city. It’s a special place unlike any other.
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