Table of Contents

1) Nishiarai Daishi

2) Zojoji Temple

3) Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple

4) Gokokuji Temple

10) Kogan-ji Temple

5) Senso-ji Temple

Senso-ji Temple, located in Asakusa, is one of the most famous and oldest Buddhist temples in Tokyo, with a history of nearly 1,400 years.

At the temple’s entrance stands the famous Kaminarimon, marked by a giant red lantern—a popular photo spot for tourists from around the world. Once you pass through the gate, you’ll find Nakamise Street, a bustling shopping street lined with stalls selling traditional Japanese souvenirs, snacks, and sweets.

At the main hall, visitors can experience a traditional temple visit, offering prayers and trying their luck with omikuji (fortune slips)—a great way to engage with Japanese religious and cultural traditions.

The temple is located near the Tokyo Skytree, making the area a unique blend of old-town charm and modern Tokyo skyline. Senso-ji is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese history, culture, and architecture.

👉 For more details about visiting Senso-ji Temple, please refer here.

6) Gotokuji Temple

Gotokuji Temple is a Soto Zen Buddhist temple located in Setagaya city, Tokyo, widely known as the origin of the famous Maneki-neko (beckoning cat). Originally founded during the Muromachi period as the family temple of the Setagaya Castle lord, the Kila clan, it later became the family temple of the Ii clan during the Edo period and developed into its current scale.

The legend of the Maneki-neko began when Ii Naotaka, lord of the Hikone domain in the Edo period, was passing by the temple. He saw a cat seemingly beckoning him to enter. Shortly after, he avoided a sudden thunderstorm by taking shelter in the temple and, grateful for his safety, he generously supported the temple. This story is considered the root of the Maneki-neko tradition. Today, many beckoning cat figurines are offered and displayed throughout the temple grounds.

The temple grounds offer a peaceful atmosphere with a main hall, a three-story pagoda, and the graves of the Ii family. In spring, the cherry blossoms are beautiful, and in autumn, colorful foliage creates a serene and healing environment where history and nature blend perfectly. Gotokuji is cherished not only by tourists but also by local residents.

Access is easy, just a few minutes' walk from Gotokuji Station on the Odakyu Line or Miyanosaka Station on the Setagaya Line. It is one of Tokyo’s most popular temples, famous for its unique history and the photogenic sight of countless Maneki-neko statues lining the grounds.

👉 For more details about visiting Gotokuji area, please refer here.

7) Meguro Fudoson

Meguro Fudoson, officially called Ryusenji Temple, is a Shingon Buddhist temple located in Meguro city, Tokyo. It is famous as one of Tokyo’s Three Great Fudo Temples and affectionately known as “Meguro Fudo.” With a history spanning about 1,300 years, it has long been a place of worship and spiritual support for local people.

Fudo Myo-o (the Fudo deity) is a Buddhist guardian believed to have the power to ward off evil. Because of this, many visitors come to Meguro Fudoson to pray for protection from misfortune, family safety, and traffic safety. Every year on January 28th, the temple holds a lively festival called the Fudoson Ennichi (Fudo Festival) that attracts many worshippers.

The temple grounds are rich with nature, surrounded by greenery that creates a peaceful atmosphere. The bright vermilion main hall and the large statue of Fudo Myo-o leave a strong impression, reflecting the temple’s deep history and faith. Nearby flows the Meguro River, famous for its stunning cherry blossoms. In spring, the combination of cherry blossoms and the temple’s scenery makes it a popular spot for photography.

Access is very convenient, just a few minutes’ walk from Fudomae Station on the Tokyu Meguro Line. Despite being located in the city, Meguro Fudoson remains a beloved place where many come to find peace and spiritual comfort.

8) Sengakuji Temple

Sengakuji Temple is a Soto Zen Buddhist temple located in Takanawa, Minato city, Tokyo. It is especially famous as the historic site of the ”Chushingura” (the story of the Forty-seven Ronin), a well-known tale from the Edo period about samurai loyalty and revenge.

The temple grounds hold the graves of the forty-seven ronin who avenged their lord in the Akō incident of 1701 (Genroku 14). Many visitors come to pay their respects and remember the ronin’s legendary loyalty and courage.

Sengakuji was moved to its current location in 1671 by order of the Tokugawa shogunate, and its history spans about 350 years. The cemetery features orderly rows of gravestones and monuments dedicated to the ronin, attracting not only history enthusiasts but also tourists interested in Japanese culture and samurai spirit. The peaceful atmosphere of the grounds invites reflection on the values of the samurai from the Edo era.

In addition to its historical significance, Sengakuji offers a tranquil escape from the busy city, with seasonal natural beauty throughout the year. The cherry blossoms in spring are especially beautiful and draw many visitors. The temple is conveniently located just a short walk from Sengakuji Station, making it easily accessible.

For those interested in the Chushingura story or historical sightseeing, Sengakuji is a must-visit spot where you can quietly pay your respects and feel the weight of Japan’s samurai history.

9) Kan’ei-ji Temple

Kan’ei-ji Temple is a large Tendai Buddhist temple founded in 1625 by Tokugawa Iemitsu, the third shogun of the Tokugawa family. It is located around Ueno Park in Taito city, Tokyo. Kan’ei-ji was an important temple protected by the Tokugawa shogunate and served as the family temple for the Tokugawa shoguns.

The temple grounds were once extensive, with many buildings, but most were lost due to repeated fires and war damage. Today, only some buildings and cemeteries remain. One of the main highlights is the Kan’ei-ji Imperial Mausoleum, the burial site of many Tokugawa shoguns and other historical figures.

Kan’ei-ji is also famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, as it is located next to Ueno Onshi Park, a popular spot for hanami (flower viewing). Many tourists and locals visit every year to enjoy the stunning seasonal scenery.

Beyond its historical importance, Kan’ei-ji hosts cultural events and festivals, serving as a hub for local cultural activities. It is a beloved place where visitors can experience both history and nature right in the heart of Tokyo.

10) Kogan-ji Temple

Kogan-ji Temple, located in Sugamo, Toshima city, Tokyo, is a Soto Zen Buddhist temple widely known as “Togenuki Jizo” (the “Thorn-Removing Jizo”). Founded in 1596 (Keicho 1), it was moved to its current location in 1891 (Meiji 24).

The temple’s main statue, Enmei Jizo Bosatsu, is believed to have the power to heal illnesses and relieve pain. The name “Togenuki Jizo” comes from legends dating back to the Edo period. According to these stories, a woman recovered from illness by using an image of the Jizo, and another person miraculously expelled a swallowed needle. Because of these tales, many visitors come to pray for health and recovery.

Inside the temple grounds, you will find the famous “Arai Kannon” (Washing Kannon), a stone statue of Kannon Bodhisattva. It is believed that washing the part of the statue corresponding to your own ailment will bring healing. The surface of the statue is worn down from the hands of devoted worshippers over many years, showing the depth of faith.

Right in front of Kogan-ji Temple is Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street, known as the “Harajuku for Grandmothers.” This charming shopping area is full of shops and restaurants catering to senior citizens, creating a warm atmosphere where people gather to wish for health and longevity.

The temple is conveniently located about a 5-minute walk from Sugamo Station. Kogan-ji Temple is a place where history and faith come alive, offering visitors comfort and peace of mind.

Tokyo is home to a wide variety of temples, which serve as important spiritual centers for local people and places where many visit to pay respects to their ancestors. For tourists visiting Japan, temples offer a unique opportunity to learn about Japanese culture and experience the enchanting atmosphere that only these sacred sites can provide.

When you explore Tokyo, be sure to include a visit to at least one temple to enjoy this special cultural experience.

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