What other travelers are saying about Zojoji Temple
Zojo-ji Temple offers a peaceful and meaningful escape in the heart of Tokyo, beautifully blending history with the modern city around it. The temple grounds feel calm and spiritual, making it a perfect place to slow down and reflect. What makes the experience even more special is the contrast between the traditional architecture of Zojo-ji and the nearby Tokyo Tower rising behind it. In front of the temple, the small shopping and food area adds a pleasant local touch, offering snacks, souvenirs, and a chance to rest after exploring the grounds. This combination of culture, scenery, and everyday life makes Zojo-ji a truly memorable stop in Tokyo.
Zojo-ji Temple is such a beautiful and peaceful spot right in the middle of Tokyo. You can actually see Tokyo Tower rising behind the temple—it’s such a stunning view and makes for the perfect photo moment. The temple grounds are quiet and well-kept, and there’s this lovely mix of history and calm that makes you want to slow down and just take it all in.
We got our goshuin here and even picked up a goshuincho belt, which was such a nice surprise! Definitely worth a visit if you’re exploring the area—it’s a perfect blend of culture, history, and those iconic Tokyo vibes.
This is a really cool temple in the middle of the Tokyo metropolis. The juxtaposition between modern and traditional is fascinating and beautiful. I was lucky to witness a local family participating in a religious ceremony for their children at the temple, and it was very beautiful. If you are in the area, this is a great way to spend your time in this neighborhood.
Quiet. Free entry. A bit creepy with all the small Buddhas in the garden of the temple. They are the guardians of the dead children. It is a highly spiritual place. Beware of the many mosquitoes in the garden. It seems Tokyo has an increasing mosquito issue across the whole city. Walking distance from Tokyo Tower.
Spectacular Buddhist temple just in front of the Tokyo tower 🗼. At some times you can see the monks doing their services. This place was very calm and quiet despite central location. I recommend coming here for moment of reflection.
Zojoji Temple is significant as the main temple of the Jodo Shu (Pure Land sect) of Buddhism in the Kanto region of Japan. It has historical ties to the Tokugawa shogunate, serving as the family temple and burial site for six Tokugawa shoguns. Its role in Japanese history, combined with its architectural beauty and cultural importance, makes it a key religious and historical site.
Entrance to Zojoji Temple itself is free of charge. However, there may be fees for entering certain buildings within the temple complex, such as the Tokugawa Mausoleum or museum exhibitions, if they are open to the public.
The history of Zojoji Temple dates back to its founding in 1393 by Yuyo Shoso as a seminary of the Jodo Shu. It gained prominence when Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, chose it as his family temple in the early 17th century. Throughout the Edo period, it played a significant role in the political and religious life of Japan. Although much of the temple was destroyed during World War II, it has been rebuilt and remains a vital cultural and religious site.
"Zojoji" (増上寺) does not have a direct translation into English that conveys a specific meaning through its kanji characters. However, in the context of its Buddhist heritage, the name is associated with the temple's long-standing history and its significance within the Jodo Shu sect of Buddhism. The name is now synonymous with its role as a major religious site, its historical importance, and its cultural legacy in Japan.
