Zojo-ji Temple
Build a trip to Tokyo
About
Zojo-ji is the main temple of the Jodo sect of Buddhism and was the family temple of the Tokugawa Shogunate. Six of the Tokugawa Shoguns are buried here. The main gate, Sangedatsu-mon, is one of the oldest wooden structures in Tokyo, having survived fires and WWII bombings. The temple grounds offer a visually stunning juxtaposition: the grand, traditional temple architecture is framed perfectly by the bright orange Tokyo Tower rising directly behind it. The rows of 'Jizo' statues, decorated with red caps and windmills by parents, provide a poignant and spiritual atmosphere in the gardens.
Highlights
- Contrast of temple and Tokyo Tower
- Tokugawa clan family temple
- 600 Jizo child statues
- Grand Sanchademon Gate
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Tokyo Tower
Completed in 1958 as a symbol of Japan's post-war recovery, this 333-meter steel structure was inspired by the Eiffel Tower but painted international orange and white for aviation safety. It remains a nostalgic icon for locals despite the taller Skytree. The tower houses the 'Top Deck' which features a geometric mirror design that reflects the city lights. The surrounding Shiba Park offers the best ground-level views, especially during the cherry blossom season. It's a classic romantic spot frequently featured in Japanese cinema and anime.
Azabudai Hills (teamLab Borderless)
The legendary 'Borderless' museum has moved to the ultra-modern Azabudai Hills. Unlike 'Planets', which is a linear path, Borderless is a vast labyrinth where artworks move from room to room, communicating with each other and sometimes merging. It features iconic installations like the 'Forest of Resonating Lamps' and new works exclusive to this location. The philosophy is based on the idea that art has no boundaries; it is an overwhelming, 10,000-square-meter world where you are encouraged to get lost and discover hidden passages and evolving digital landscapes.
Florilege
Recently moved to the new Azabudai Hills, Florilege is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant that blends French technique with a deep respect for Japanese ingredients. Chef Hiroyasu Kawate is famous for his 'sustainability' focus, using ingredients like 'repurposed' beef. The dining room is centered around a massive open kitchen where guests sit at a counter, watching the chefs prepare dishes like theater. The menu is creative, modern, and visually stunning. It is frequently ranked on the 'World's 50 Best Restaurants' list and is a must-visit for those interested in the cutting edge of Tokyo's international food scene.
Hamarikyu Gardens
A stunning Edo-period landscape garden that once served as a private hunting ground for the Shogun. It is unique for its 'Shioiri-no-ike' (tidal pond), which uses seawater from Tokyo Bay that rises and falls with the tides. In the center of the pond sits the 'Nakajima No Chaya' teahouse, where visitors can enjoy matcha and traditional sweets while crossing a long cypress bridge. The garden offers a spectacular visual contrast, with its ancient pine trees and meticulously kept lawns framed by the futuristic glass towers of the Shiodome business district.
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