Verified [Verified] denotes information that has been published with confirmation of its owing parties.
At the base of Tokyo Tower, there is a Buddhist temple connected to the family of the Tokugawa Shogunate.
Located at the base of Tokyo Tower is Zojoji, an Omotoyama temple of the Jodo sect of Buddhism.
Enshrined in Zojoji's Ankokuden Hall is the hidden black image of Buddha worshipped by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo period. Since he won one battle after after another, visiting this temple is said to increase the chance of victory.
The temple grounds feature the "Sangedatsumon," which represent the three types of training to attain enlightenment and liberation from worldly desires: "Kumon," "Muso-mon," and "Mugan-mon." These gates are also commonly known as the "Sanmon." There are also important cultural properties such as the Tokugawa shogunate family gravesite.
Surrounded by skyscrapers, spend a calm and quiet moment in the middle of the city.
Zojoji Temple and Tokyo Tower
Sangedatsumon Gate
The Daiden, or Main Hall
It's stunningly beautiful during the cherry blossom season.
The Grave of Tokugawa Ieyasu
The Former Main Gate of Taitokuin Mausoleum, located within the grounds of Zojoji Temple.
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have pamphlets in other languages? (If so, please also inform us of the supported languages)
English, Chinese and Korean are available.
Q
|Do you have temple’s red ink stamps?
Yes, we do. They are available at the Ankokuden from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Q
Is parking available?
There is no parking lot, so please use public transportation.
Q
Are coin lockers available?
Not available.
Some reviews are AI-translated.
While walking around the Tokyo Tower area, I made a special stop at nearby Zojoji Temple, which offers an excellent view. Although it was raining on the day of my visit, this ancient temple unexpectedly had a unique charm in the rain.
Looking up from the stone steps of Zojoji, the stately, historic temple hall lines up perfectly with the thoroughly modern Tokyo Tower behind it. The sight of old and new blending together is truly distinctive. The gentle rain added a sense of tranquility and poetry unique to rainy days, giving the temple an even more serene charm than on a sunny day. Standing quietly under an umbrella and taking in this classic view, my shoes got a little wet, but the unique Japanese atmosphere left a deep impression on me. I highly recommend coming here, rain or shine, to experience this captivating landmark and its beautiful contrasts.
Located in the Shiba Park area of Tokyo, the stately temple buildings blend with the surrounding cityscape, creating a unique atmosphere where old and new come together.
The biggest attraction of Zojoji Temple is being able to capture the historic temple and Tokyo Tower behind it in the same photo! The red Tokyo Tower paired with the temple’s traditional architecture creates a particularly distinctive view and is a classic shot that many visitors come here to take. Standing in front of the temple, you can look up and see Tokyo Tower, making it a truly iconic Tokyo scene.
Zojoji Temple is located at the foot of Tokyo Tower and is the family temple of the Tokugawa shoguns. The temple itself has a strong historical atmosphere. My favorite thing about this place is that, standing in front of the temple, you can capture the stately temple gate and Tokyo Tower in the same view. The blend of tradition and modernity creates a classic Tokyo scene.
During the day, the sunlight falling between the temple and the tower makes the view especially beautiful. You don’t need to set aside much extra time—just stop by when visiting Tokyo Tower to experience Tokyo’s unique historical and urban charm.
As soon as you enter the solemn, historic temple grounds, the magnificent main hall and surrounding greenery instantly shut out the noise of the city, and the air feels peaceful and sacred.
The most striking classic view is looking ahead from in front of the main hall or along the stone-paved approach. Behind the traditional temple architecture, the modern red-and-white Tokyo Tower forms a perfect backdrop.
This unique scene of an ancient temple and a modern landmark in the same frame is not only visually dramatic, but something everyone visiting Tokyo should see in person.
I highly recommend including Zojoji Temple in your Tokyo walking itinerary. Whether you’re visiting for quiet reflection, exploring its historical ties to Tokugawa Ieyasu’s family, or capturing the stunning blend of old and new, it will leave a lasting impression.
Zojoji Temple is a historic temple with a solemn, dignified atmosphere. The temple and Tokyo Tower complement each other beautifully, creating a unique view. The grounds are quiet and peaceful, full of culture and history. It’s a worthwhile place to visit and pay respects in central Tokyo.
