Bishamonten Zenkokuji Temple stands as a vibrant symbol of Kagurazaka, one of Tokyo's most charming neighborhoods. Originally founded in 1595 by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Tokugawa Shogunate, the temple was initially established in Nihonbashi Bakurocho in present-day Chiyoda Ward. After enduring damage from fires in 1670 and 1792, the temple relocated to its current location in Kagurazaka, where it has remained for over 200 years. The temple belongs to the Nichiren sect of Buddhism and was built under Tokugawa Ieyasu's directive to protect and stabilize the nation through Buddhist philosophy.
The temple is dedicated to Bishamonten, one of the Seven Lucky Gods and one of the Four Heavenly Kings in Buddhist tradition. This warrior deity, depicted in armor while holding a treasure pagoda in his right hand and a staff in his left, is revered as a protector who brings good fortune, business prosperity, protection from misfortune, and success in competition. The statue of Bishamonten housed within the main hall has been designated as a Cultural Property of Shinjuku City. According to legend, Bishamonten appeared in the Year, Month, Day, and Hour of the Tiger, creating a strong association between the deity and tigers. The statue is typically hidden behind a curtain but revealed to the public on special Days of the Tiger in January, May, and September.
Visitors are greeted by the temple's distinctive vermilion gate, which has made it a popular meeting spot and local landmark. Two imposing stone tigers stand guard in front of the main hall, serving as both protective symbols and popular photo opportunities. The temple grounds feature beautiful gardens that attract crowds during cherry blossom season in spring, when the grounds fill with pink and white petals. The temple achieved notable historical significance as reportedly the first place in Tokyo where night stalls appeared during temple festivals, contributing to Kagurazaka's development as a thriving entertainment district during the Edo Period. Today, it remains part of the Shinjuku Yamanote Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage route.
The Kagurazaka Festival takes place annually at the end of July, transforming the temple and surrounding streets into a lively celebration featuring the Awa-odori Dance, traditional performances, food stalls, and a market selling hozuki (Japanese lantern plants). During this festival, the temple offers limited-edition protective charms unavailable at other times. The bean-throwing festival on February 3rd involves rituals to chase away evil spirits. The temple's gift shop sells protective charms, ema (votive plaques) decorated with tiger motifs, and distinctive palm-sized papier-mâché tiger figurines throughout the year.
The temple is easily accessible from Iidabashi Station, served by the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho, Namboku, and Tozai lines, the Toei Oedo line, and the JR Chuo-Sobu line. From Exit B3 of the subway or the west exit of the JR station, the temple is approximately a 5-7 minute walk. Ushigome-Kagurazaka Station on the Toei Oedo line is even closer at just 1 minute on foot. Admission to the temple grounds is free, making it an accessible destination for both casual visitors and serious pilgrims seeking Bishamonten's blessings.
