Kotabi
Zojo-ji

Zojo-ji

4.512,673 reviews
Historic Buddhist temple · Shogun graves · Tokyo Tower backdrop
📍 4-chōme-7-35 Shibakōen, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0011, Japan
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Hours
  • Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

About

The main temple of Jōdo-shū Buddhism, this compound includes ornate buildings dating to the 1600s.

The full picture

This is the main temple of Jodo-shu Buddhism and the historic family temple of the Tokugawa shoguns, famous for its 17th-century wooden gate.

It suits history enthusiasts, photographers looking for the contrast between old Tokyo and Tokyo Tower, and those seeking a quiet retreat.

The evening is a particularly beautiful time to visit as the atmosphere becomes very calm and the nearby tower lights up.

💡 Make sure to find the garden area containing hundreds of small Jizo statues dressed in red hats and bibs.

Visitors love
  • stunning Tokyo Tower views
  • ancient Sangedatsumon Gate
  • peaceful spiritual atmosphere
  • monk chanting
  • unique Jizo statues

Good to know

Is it good for kids?
The temple grounds are spacious and open, though the atmosphere is quiet and spiritual.
Is it OK on a rainy day?
The main hall offers shelter, but the statues and historic gate are best experienced while walking the outdoor grounds.
How long to stay?
Most visitors spend about 45 to 60 minutes exploring the gate, main hall, and statue gardens.
Is a reservation needed?
Not mentioned in reviews.
🧭 Directions 🌐 Website 📞 Call
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Visitor reviews

★★★★★x phatcharawit · 2 months ago
A peaceful temple in the heart of Tokyo, this place is a true hidden gem with beautiful architecture. It offers a stunning and unique new perspective for photographing Tokyo Tower. The temple grounds feature numerous small child statues, each dressed in a variety of detailed, fascinating outfits. It is absolutely a must-visit check-in spot.
★★★★★Jonathan · 3 months ago
Nestled beside the iconic Tokyo Tower in Minato Ward, Zojo-ji Temple offers a peaceful escape from Tokyo's bustling modernity. As the main temple of the Jodo-shu Pure Land Buddhism in the Kanto region, it holds profound historical significance as the family temple of the Tokugawa shoguns who ruled Japan for over 260 years. The most striking feature is the Sangedatsumon Gate, built in 1622. This magnificent red wooden structure is the oldest surviving wooden building in Tokyo and the only original temple structure to withstand World War II bombings. Inside the temple grounds, six Tokugawa shog
★★★★★sagar gyawali · 5 months ago
Visited Zojo-ji Temple during my time in Tokyo and really enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere. The temple is beautiful and spacious, and what makes it unique is the view of Tokyo Tower standing right behind it. The mix of traditional temple architecture with the modern tower in the background creates a very special scene. While walking around the main hall, I felt very lucky and blessed to hear the monks chanting. The sound of the chant created a calm and spiritual feeling that made the moment even more meaningful. I also noticed the rows of small Jizo statues with red hats and bibs, which was ver
★★★★Ryan GLOBETROTTER · 5 months ago
Impressive temple located next to Tokyo Tower, creating a striking contrast between traditional architecture and modern Tokyo. Zōjō‑ji Temple is a large and historic Buddhist temple with spacious grounds and a calm atmosphere despite being in the middle of the city. It is known as the family temple of the Tokugawa shoguns, and several of their tombs are located within the complex. One of the most touching areas is the garden with hundreds of small Jizō statues dedicated to children, which gives the temple a very unique and emotional atmosphere. Overall, a peaceful and impressive place to vi
★★★★★Dante H. · 3 months ago
One of the most peaceful places we visited in Tokyo. The contrast between the traditional temple atmosphere and Tokyo Tower standing in the background makes the whole place feel really unique. Even though it’s located in a busy part of the city, the temple grounds felt calm, spacious, and relaxing to walk around. I especially liked how open the area felt compared to some more crowded temple spots in Tokyo. It’s a great place to slow down for a bit, take photos, and enjoy a quieter side of the city. The atmosphere in the evening was especially beautiful.