There’s no better time to check out Ikegami Honmonji Temple’s 5-story pagoda than during cherry blossom season!

Walk from the Tokyu Ikegami Line’s Ikegami Station for about 10 minutes and you should come to see the main gate and steps leading up to the temple. (Map: 2)

While keeping my eye on the weather and cherry blossom forecasts, I intentionally made my way to the temple slightly before the blossoms were expected to hit full bloom. Sure enough, only about 70% of the flowers had blossomed, and the trees were a little bare.

It was a beautiful weekday afternoon, despite the blossoms not having quite reached their full potential. On weekends and holidays various food stalls, etc., pop up and make the atmosphere even livelier. (Map: 3)

The view of the open space infront of the main hall from the Deva gate was quite spectacular.

I rather liked this photo of the bell tower peeking out from behind the cherry blossoms. The view of the Deva gate from behind this cherry tree wasn’t half bad either! (Map: 5)

Well, what do you think? The cherry blossoms in this area were practically perfect, like bunches of cotton candy strategically placed amongst the branches. In the far left, you can even see the 5-story pagoda. I decided to go in for a closer look.

I was pleasantly surprised to be met with a cherry tree-lined path leading from the Deva gate to the 5-story pagoda. With little space between the trees, it was like walking through a cherry blossom tunnel—which also just so happened to block the view of the pagoda.

Finally, I arrived at the bottom of the 5-story pagoda. Keep in mind that there’s a public road nearby with passing cars, so try not to let the impressive view mesmerize you. (Map: 8)

At Ikegami Honmonji Temple's summit, you'll find the Ota Ward Ikegami Kaikan Hall not too far from the main gate. As the hall's 4th floor is completely in line with the height of the pagoda, it also serves as a great—and free—observation platform.

Looking out from the observation platform, I was overtaken by the beauty of the 5-story pagoda surrounded by cherry blossoms. This is a view you won't want to miss out on. (Map: 9)

The main hall is breathtaking, isn’t it? I headed inside to pray. (Map: 7)

This is the kind of scenery that makes you forget all your problems. (Map: 6)

A slope called the Daibo-saka will take you from the main shrine to the Ikegami Honmonji Temple's 2-story pagoda. The contrast between the surrounding greenery and the striking red colour of the pagoda was a feast for the eyes.

In this article, I have introduced the charms of Ikegami Honmonji Temple during the cherry blossom season.
Beyond Ikegami Honmonji Temple, there are many other attractive cherry blossom spots in Tokyo.
Consider the following article, which carefully selects and introduces cherry blossom spots in Tokyo, to enjoy cherry blossom viewing in the city.