Jokanji Temple
A historically significant temple, Jokanji Temple offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of Edo-era courtesans and their resting place.
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Blooming wisteria adds beauty
Jokanji Temple
Best Time
Blooming wisteria adds beauty
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historically significant temple, Jokanji Temple offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of Edo-era courtesans and their resting place.
"A sad but historically significant place, offering a unique glimpse into Edo's past."
🚶♀️ Easy Access from Minowa Station
Just a 3-minute walk from Minowa Station on the Hibiya Line. Perfect for a peaceful detour. :train2:
🙏 Respectful Attire Recommended
As a place of remembrance, dress modestly and be mindful of the solemn atmosphere. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shin Yoshiwara Memorial
Cemetery adjacent to the temple
A poignant pagoda commemorating the courtesans of the former Yoshiwara district. A place of remembrance and reflection.
Grave of Wakamurasaki
Temple grounds
The resting place of the famous courtesan Wakamurasaki, adding a personal touch to the temple's historical narrative.
Sunflower Jizo Statue
Temple grounds
A touching statue dedicated to those without relatives, often used for memorial services in the Sanya area.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Melancholy History
Quiet Contemplation, Respectful Visit
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🚶♀️ Easy Access from Minowa Station
Just a 3-minute walk from Minowa Station on the Hibiya Line. Perfect for a peaceful detour. :train2:
🙏 Respectful Attire Recommended
As a place of remembrance, dress modestly and be mindful of the solemn atmosphere. :pray:
🗺️ Ask for a Graveyard Map
The head priest is kind and can provide a map to help you navigate the historical sites. :map:
🌸 Enjoy the Seasonal Blooms
Visit during spring to see beautiful wisteria flowers adding color to the grounds. :cherry_blossom:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Easy Access from Minowa Station
Just a 3-minute walk from Minowa Station on the Hibiya Line. Perfect for a peaceful detour. :train2:
🙏 Respectful Attire Recommended
As a place of remembrance, dress modestly and be mindful of the solemn atmosphere. :pray:
🗺️ Ask for a Graveyard Map
The head priest is kind and can provide a map to help you navigate the historical sites. :map:
🌸 Enjoy the Seasonal Blooms
Visit during spring to see beautiful wisteria flowers adding color to the grounds. :cherry_blossom:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Jokanji Temple is recognized for its poignant historical significance, particularly its connection to the courtesans of Edo's Yoshiwara district. Visitors appreciate the quiet, contemplative atmosphere and the opportunity to learn about a lesser-known aspect of Tokyo's past. While the history is somber, the temple is well-maintained and offers a unique, respectful experience for those interested in historical depth.
"You can see the "Shin Yoshiwara Memorial", the grave of the famous courtesan Wakamurasaki and the Jizo statue of the prostitute Sayoginu. It is really off the beaten track. Recommended for the fans of Edo's dark side."
Stelios Prezerakos
"Jokanji is commonly known as "Togekomi-dera" (Throwing Temple). However, it was not built for the purpose of throwing prostitutes into the temple.
Founded in 1655.
In 1657, the Yoshiwara in Nihonbashi was moved to the back of Senso-ji Temple after the Great Fire of Meireki. This resulted in the name Shin-Yoshiwara, and the Yoshiwara in Nihonbashi was called Moto-Yoshiwara.
1742: Construction of the temple gate, etc.
In 1855, the Great Ansei earthquake occurred, and the bodies of the prostitutes in Shin-Yoshiwara were thrown into the temple. This is how the temple came to be called "Togekomi-dera" (Throwing Temple).
A hole was dug and a large number of bodies were thrown into it. The misery of the life of a prostitute is also described in a haiku poem by Hanamata Hanasui, "Born into a sea of suffering, died at Jokanji."
There are many historical sites within the temple grounds.
The closest station is Minowa Station on the Hibiya Line, a 3-minute walk away."
ミニトマト
"At the Shin Yoshiwara Soreito Pagoda, there are offerings of women's items such as makeup tools and hair clips, and the Jizo statue below them has lipstick on it. It's so moving that it brings me to tears."
KENKEN CHIBAKEN
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jokanji Temple is conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from Minowa Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line. It's easily accessible for those exploring the area.
Yes, Jokanji Temple is located near the historical site of Yoshiwara, the former red-light district of Edo. This proximity is central to its historical significance.
Many visitors find it convenient to visit Jokanji Temple as part of a cycling tour, especially after visiting nearby landmarks like the Senju Ohashi Bridge.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Jokanji Temple is generally free to enter, as it is a place of worship and historical significance. Donations are always appreciated.
While specific hours are not always listed, temples in Japan are typically open during daylight hours for visitors to explore the grounds. It's best to visit during the day for a peaceful experience.
Yes, the cemetery adjacent to Jokanji Temple, which houses the Shin Yoshiwara Memorial, is accessible to visitors. It's an important part of understanding the temple's history.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Jokanji Temple is known for its historical connection to the courtesans of Edo's Yoshiwara district and is sometimes called 'Togekomi-dera' (Throwing Temple) due to its past. It's a place of remembrance for many.
Key historical sites include the Shin Yoshiwara Memorial pagoda, the grave of courtesan Wakamurasaki, and the Sunflower Jizo statue. The temple grounds hold many historical markers.
Jokanji Temple is often described as 'off the beaten track' and is typically a quiet, contemplative place with few other visitors, offering a peaceful experience.
The temple earned the nickname 'Togekomi-dera' (Throwing Temple) after the Great Ansei earthquake in 1855, when bodies of prostitutes from Shin-Yoshiwara were interred there.
Photography is generally permitted within temple grounds for personal use, but always be respectful of the sacred nature of the site and any memorial areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The Shin Yoshiwara Memorial pagoda and the Sunflower Jizo statue offer poignant photographic opportunities. The blooming wisteria in spring also provides beautiful shots.
While generally allowed, it's important to be respectful. Avoid intrusive photography, especially in memorial areas, and always be mindful of the solemn atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to prepare children for the temple's historical context beforehand to ensure they understand the significance of the site. The quiet atmosphere makes it suitable for a calm visit, and the proximity to Minowa Station makes it easily accessible. Consider it a visit for older children who can appreciate historical narratives and respectful contemplation.
🚶 Solo Travelers & History Buffs
Take advantage of the quiet atmosphere to reflect on the stories held within the temple grounds. Don't hesitate to interact with the head priest if possible, as they can offer valuable insights and even provide maps to help you explore the historical markers more thoroughly. It's a place to connect with a less-discussed but significant aspect of Tokyo's heritage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Poignant History of Jokanji Temple
The temple grounds serve as a memorial to these women, many of whom endured hardship. The Shin Yoshiwara Memorial pagoda stands as a significant landmark, offering a place for remembrance. Visitors can also find the grave of the renowned courtesan Wakamurasaki, adding a personal dimension to the temple's narrative. The Sunflower Jizo statue further highlights the temple's role in offering solace and memorial services to those without relatives, particularly those from the Sanya district.
Visiting Jokanji Temple offers a unique opportunity to connect with a lesser-known facet of Tokyo's history. It's a place that encourages reflection on the lives of those who lived and died in challenging circumstances. The quiet atmosphere, especially when complemented by seasonal blooms like wisteria, enhances the contemplative experience.
Navigating Jokanji Temple and its Surroundings
The temple itself is described as being 'off the beaten track,' contributing to its tranquil and contemplative ambiance. Unlike more crowded tourist attractions, Jokanji Temple offers a quiet space for reflection. The head priest has been noted for his kindness, even providing visitors with a map of the graveyard to help them locate the various historical markers and memorials.
When visiting, it's important to approach Jokanji Temple with respect for its history and the souls it commemorates. While photography is generally permitted for personal use, visitors are encouraged to be mindful of the solemn nature of the site. The beauty of the temple is often enhanced by seasonal flora, such as the blooming wisteria in spring, which adds a touch of natural splendor to the historical setting.
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