Gokokuji Temple Tokyo
A serene Buddhist temple in Tokyo, featuring Tokyo's oldest wooden building, sculpted gardens, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds
Gokokuji Temple Tokyo
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Buddhist temple in Tokyo, featuring Tokyo's oldest wooden building, sculpted gardens, and a peaceful atmosphere.
"This place is that rare combo of serenity and theatrical drama."
🎯 Go Early for Peace
Visit first thing in the morning for a truly awe-inspiring and peaceful experience.
💧 Bring Water & Stay Hydrated
Tokyo can be hot; a vending machine is available, but it's wise to bring your own water.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Main Hall's Grandeur
Main temple building
Experience the oldest wooden temple building in Tokyo, a majestic structure with a green copper roof and aged wooden pillars.
Sculpted Pine Gardens
Temple grounds
Marvel at the improbably symmetrical and majestic sculpted pine trees, resembling giant bonsai.
Jizo Bodhisattva Statues
Temple grounds
Encounter rows of peaceful Jizo Bodhisattva statues, offering a serene and contemplative sight.
Antique Market Finds
Temple grounds (specific dates)
Discover unique treasures at the Gokokuji Temple antique market, held on select Saturdays.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Serenity
Explore Beyond the Main Hall
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go Early for Peace
Visit first thing in the morning for a truly awe-inspiring and peaceful experience. +1
💧 Bring Water & Stay Hydrated
Tokyo can be hot; a vending machine is available, but it's wise to bring your own water.
📸 Stunning Photo Ops
The grounds are free, uncrowded, and perfect for a contemplative photo walk.
🌸 Cherry Blossom Spot
Gokokuji Temple is a lovely spot for cherry blossom viewing near Ikebukuro.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go Early for Peace
Visit first thing in the morning for a truly awe-inspiring and peaceful experience. +1
💧 Bring Water & Stay Hydrated
Tokyo can be hot; a vending machine is available, but it's wise to bring your own water.
📸 Stunning Photo Ops
The grounds are free, uncrowded, and perfect for a contemplative photo walk.
🌸 Cherry Blossom Spot
Gokokuji Temple is a lovely spot for cherry blossom viewing near Ikebukuro.
🚗 Access via Cat Tram
Ride the adorable Setagaya Line 'Cat Tram' to reach this gem.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Gokokuji Temple for its serene atmosphere and historical significance, often highlighting the beauty of its sculpted gardens and the oldest wooden temple building in Tokyo. Many find it a peaceful escape from the city's hustle, with some even experiencing profound spiritual moments. While generally well-loved, some may find it less visually dramatic than other major Tokyo landmarks.
"Tucked in the quiet folds of Bunkyo Ward like a well-kept secret from Tokyo’s neon-soaked chaos, this place is that rare combo of serenity and theatrical drama.
First off: the trees. The sculpted pines out front look like they were trimmed by a Zen master with OCD and a step ladder. Majestic, muscular, and improbably symmetrical — think bonsai trees that hit the gym.
The main hall rises like something out of a samurai opera: green copper roof, aged wooden pillars, and a stillness so thick you start whispering without realizing it. Inside, it’s an ornate, golden glow-up of altars, incense, and hush. Chairs were lined up like something spiritual was about to kick off — or maybe just a very calm PTA meeting.
And let’s not ignore the statues. You’ve got your peaceful Jizo Bodhisattvas lining up like the most chill boy band in history. Then just around the corner: Buddhist Bouncer Mode. One statue looked ready to throw down with a thunder god. Rippling abs, iron glare, hand raised like “you shall not pass… without inner peace.”
We wandered. We sweat (a lot). We silently thanked whoever installed that lone vending machine near the cemetery path. And we left better than we arrived — calmer, more contemplative, and 12% more respectful of pine trees.
Hot tip: The grounds are free to enter, uncrowded, and make for a stunning photo walk. Bring your water, your wonder, and a friend who doesn’t mind you whispering “Whoa” every five minutes."
Jim Reaugh
"This is such a beautiful temple .. a must see first thing in the morning if you have the time .. we were blessed to be able to go up and gong the log on the time .. a lovely local chap passing thru took us up there .. once in the temple at 6:30-7 am I was awe struck .. Nische the priest chanted with the locals .. it was so beautiful 🙏thankful.."
Lisa Follett
"Amazing!! Beautiful place to visit. I went to visit Sosai Masutatsu Oyama's, Founder of Kyokushinkai Karate gravesite. It was really special. Osu
(Pass the right side of temple, take a right turn at the fence, 3 or so plots in.)"
Max S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gokokuji Temple is accessible via the Setagaya Line, often referred to as the 'Cat Tram' due to its lucky cat decorations. It's also a short distance from Ikebukuro and can be reached by public transport.
While not directly in Shibuya, Gotokuji Temple is about 30 minutes east of Shibuya, making it a feasible day trip.
You can take the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line to Gokokuji Station. From there, it's a short walk to the temple.
Yes, Gokokuji Temple is a great addition to a day exploring areas like Sangenjaya, which offers great food and a step back in time.
Information on dedicated parking is limited, so using public transportation is generally recommended for visiting Gokokuji Temple.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The grounds of Gokokuji Temple are free to enter, allowing visitors to explore the gardens and admire the architecture without admission fees.
While specific hours can vary, visiting early in the morning is highly recommended for the most serene experience. +1
The antique market is held on select Saturdays. It's best to check local listings or social media for the exact dates.
Entry to the antique market itself is generally free, but you'll need to purchase any items you wish to buy.
Visitors can enter the main hall to experience its ornate interior and peaceful atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography & Atmosphere
Absolutely! The temple grounds offer stunning architectural details, serene gardens, and beautiful seasonal foliage, making it a photographer's delight. +1
The atmosphere is incredibly peaceful and tranquil, offering a serene escape from Tokyo's busy city life. +2
Generally, photography is allowed on the grounds, but it's always respectful to be mindful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography, especially inside the main hall.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the temple's beauty. Cherry blossom season also provides stunning backdrops.
Its unique visual appeal comes from the oldest wooden temple building in Tokyo, meticulously sculpted pine trees, and rows of Jizo statues.
🎫 🙏 Spiritual Significance
Gokokuji Temple has origins dating back to the Edo period, established under the Tokugawa shogunate, and its main hall is the oldest wooden temple building in Tokyo.
Yes, the temple grounds include the gravesite of Sosai Masutatsu Oyama, the founder of Kyokushinkai Karate, which is a significant draw for practitioners.
Some visitors have reported experiencing morning prayers with locals and even gonging a bell, offering a deeply spiritual experience.
Jizo Bodhisattvas are revered in Buddhism as protectors of children and travelers, and their presence adds to the temple's serene and compassionate aura.
Absolutely. Its tranquil atmosphere and spacious grounds make it an ideal location for quiet contemplation and inner peace.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The 'Cat Tram' (Setagaya Line) on the way can also be an exciting part of the journey for younger visitors. 🧘 Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The meticulously sculpted pine trees are unique subjects, and the rows of Jizo statues provide compelling compositions. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Lucky Cat
It's important to distinguish Gokokuji Temple (in Bunkyo Ward) from Gotokuji Temple (in Setagaya Ward), which is the primary 'Lucky Cat Temple' famous for its thousands of maneki-neko statues. However, the proximity and the 'Cat Tram' make the journey to Gokokuji feel connected to this theme of good fortune.
Visitors often find a sense of peace and hope when visiting temples like Gokokuji, and the idea of receiving a lucky charm or simply being in a place dedicated to well-being can be a powerful draw.
A Haven for History and Architecture
This architectural marvel has weathered significant historical events, including the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 and World War II, underscoring its resilience and importance. The main hall, with its striking green copper roof and aged wooden pillars, evokes a sense of timelessness and grandeur, transporting visitors back to the Edo period when the temple was established under the Tokugawa shogunate. The temple grounds themselves are a meticulously designed landscape, featuring sculpted pine trees that are a visual delight.
This blend of historical significance, architectural beauty, and serene natural elements makes Gokokuji Temple a compelling destination for those interested in Japanese culture, history, and spiritual sites. It offers a peaceful respite and a glimpse into Tokyo's past, away from the modern city's clamor.
The Gokokuji Antique Market Experience
+1 Visitors can browse a wide array of items, from traditional Japanese crafts and vintage clothing to old books and decorative pieces. Even amidst the market activity, the temple maintains a peaceful ambiance, allowing visitors to enjoy both the shopping experience and the serene surroundings.
It's an excellent opportunity to find unique souvenirs or gifts that carry a piece of Japanese history and culture. The market provides a different perspective on the temple, blending its spiritual significance with the vibrant culture of Tokyo's secondhand and antique scene. +1Attending the market offers a chance to interact with local vendors and discover hidden gems. It's a perfect addition to a visit to Gokokuji Temple, especially for those interested in Japanese style, vintage items, and the thrill of the hunt.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit