Free: All time
Standing next to Tokyo Tower, Zojoji Temple is the head temple of the Jodo sect of Japanese Buddhism in the region. It was built in 1393 and moved to its present location in 1598. Zojoji Temple was formerly the family temple of the Tokugawas family and is now designated as a national treasure of Japan. Six of the Tokugawa shoguns are buried at the temple ground. In one particular garden at the cemetery, rows of stone statues of children represent the unborn children of Japan. Parents choose a statue to decorate with small clothing and toys. Usually the statues are gift for Jizo, the guardian of unborn children to ensure that they are brought to the afterlife. Today, most of the Zojoji’s buildings are recent reconstructions except for the main entrance gate, the Sangedatsumon, which has survived fires, earthquakes and World War II.
Address: 4-7-35 Shibakoen, Minato, Tokyo 105-0011
Opening hours: Daily 6am – 5pm
Direction: Subway Oedo Line to Daimon Station
Phone: +81 3-3432-1431
Website: www.zojoji.or.jp/en
Photo credit: Guilhem Vellut (Flickr CC)
