San'en-zan Kodo-in Zojoji Temple | Review by Queenie

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San'en-zan Kodo-in Zojoji Temple

At the base of Tokyo Tower, there is a Buddhist temple connected to the family of the Tokugawa Shogunate.

22 Sep 2026 See More

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.

Other Reviews by Queenie

Shiba Park

One of the first places designated as a park in Japan in 1873. Adjacent to Zojoji Temple and Shiba Toshogu Shrine, nearby Tokyo Tower can be viewed from anywhere in the park.
- Shimbashi, Toranomon, Tokyo Tower, Hamamatsucho
- Parks & Gardens
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When visiting Tokyo, besides seeing Tokyo Tower, the nearby Tokyo Metropolitan Shiba Park is also well worth a stroll. This historic park is lush and peaceful, and best of all, as you walk through it, you can catch glimpses of the familiar Tokyo Tower from time to time. The combination of the cityscape and natural greenery feels distinctly Tokyo.

It wasn't very crowded when I visited on a weekday, so it didn't have the packed feeling of a tourist attraction. It was very pleasant to take my time walking around and taking photos. In summer, the leafy trees provide plenty of shade, and the sunlight filtering onto the paths gives the entire park a fresh, relaxing atmosphere.
Harumi Pier Park

A park at Harumi Pier in Tokyo Port. It was used as part of the Athletes’ Village area during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, and was later redeveloped and opened to the public. The park features legacy elements such as commemorative plaques, letting visitors relive the spirit of the Games. Its biggest draw is the scenery from the observation plaza and seaside terrace, which offer sweeping views of the bay area, including Tokyo Tower and Rainbow Bridge.
- Tsukiji, Odaiba, Toyosu
- Parks & Gardens
22 Sep 2026 See More

Harumi Pier Park sits along Tokyo Bay and has very expansive views. There is blue sky overhead, the sparkling sea in front of you, and Rainbow Bridge and the Tokyo cityscape in the distance. The scenery is so beautiful that you won't want to leave.

The biggest eye-catcher is the huge “TOKYO” sign on the lawn. With Tokyo Bay in the same shot, even casual photos have a real travel feel. During my visit, I also saw a helicopter fly by, as well as water buses and large ships passing beneath Rainbow Bridge. The whole scene was like a moving landscape painting of Tokyo Bay.

I didn't have any particular plans, but simply sitting there, enjoying the sea breeze, and taking in the scenery felt very relaxing. Tokyo isn't just about bustling city streets. Sometimes, quiet seaside spots like this are even more appealing.
Chidorigafuchi Green Way (Chidorigafuchi Moat)

A 700-meter promenade along the moat of the Imperial Palace. Surrounded by nature so rich that it is hard to believe it is in the heart of Tokyo, it is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.
- Kudanshita, Tokyo Dome
- Tourist Attractions
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Chidorigafuchi Green Way is one of Tokyo's well-known cherry blossom viewing spots, with about 260 cherry trees along the path. Every spring, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, the entire walkway becomes a romantic pink tunnel.

This time, I visited in the summer. Instead of the dreamy scenery of cherry blossoms in full bloom, there was refreshing greenery. Lush trees lined both sides of the path, and as I walked along the Imperial Palace moat, a gentle breeze made the whole area feel peaceful and comfortable.

Although I missed cherry blossom season, I unexpectedly discovered that Chidorigafuchi is also beautiful in the summer. Without the crowds, I could walk slowly, take in the greenery, and enjoy a rare moment of relaxation in Tokyo. Each season offers different scenery. Cherry blossom season has its romance, while summer has its own freshness and tranquility.