Jindaiji Temple, Tokyo - Miyazaki-jingū (宮崎神宮) is a Shinto shrine located in Miyazaki, Miyazaki prefecture, Japan. It is dedicated to Emperor Jimmu, Ugayafukiaezu and Tamayori-bime.
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Jindaiji Temple Tokyo

4.3
·8k reviews·Chofu, Japan

Tokyo's second oldest temple, offering a serene escape with traditional soba and charming streets.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Vibrant fall foliage

CrowdMedium
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Jindaiji Temple, Tokyo - Miyazaki-jingū (宮崎神宮) is a Shinto shrine located in Miyazaki, Miyazaki prefecture, Japan. It is dedicated to Emperor Jimmu, Ugayafukiaezu and Tamayori-bime.

Jindaiji Temple Tokyo

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Vibrant fall foliage

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Tokyo's second oldest temple, offering a serene escape with traditional soba and charming streets.

4.3
(8k reviews)

"A hidden historical gem offering a peaceful glimpse into traditional Japan, far from the city bustle."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Easy Access by Bus

Take a bus from nearby train stations like Chofu or Mitaka for direct access to the temple grounds.

🍜 Savor Local Soba

Don't miss trying the area's famous soba noodles; many restaurants offer delicious handmade options.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Jindaiji Temple Grounds

Jindaiji Temple Grounds

Chofu City

Explore Tokyo's second oldest temple, a peaceful sanctuary with a rich history and beautiful architecture.

Traditional Soba Restaurants

Traditional Soba Restaurants

Approach to Jindaiji Temple

Indulge in authentic, handmade soba noodles at charming eateries lining the temple's entrance.

Jindai Botanical Gardens

Jindai Botanical Gardens

Near Jindaiji Temple

Wander through lush greenery and seasonal blooms in these expansive and beautiful gardens.

Kitaro Chaya

Kitaro Chaya

Near Jindaiji Temple

A whimsical teahouse inspired by the famous yokai manga 'GeGeGe no Kitaro'.

Planning Your Visit

Escape the City Buzz

Jindaiji Temple offers a tranquil escape from Tokyo's hustle. It's Tokyo's second oldest temple, providing a glimpse into traditional Japan with its serene grounds and charming surrounding streets. Plan for a half-day trip to truly soak in the atmosphere.

Soba & Serenity

The area around Jindaiji Temple is renowned for its delicious soba noodles. Many traditional restaurants line the approach to the temple, offering a perfect culinary experience after exploring the historic site. Consider visiting during the annual soba festival for a special treat.

Best Times

When
Autumn mornings
Why
Vibrant fall foliage
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
During Soba Festival
Why
Culinary celebration
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Hidden Historical Gem Not Far From Central Tokyo🇯🇵 A short hop from the center of Tokyo is the traditional neighborhood of Jindaiji, a pleasant area with Tokyo's second oldest temple, appealing soba s...
@lovemari.japan
68.1K likes • 1.2M views

🎯 Easy Access by Bus

Take a bus from nearby train stations like Chofu or Mitaka for direct access to the temple grounds. Reddit

🍜 Savor Local Soba

Don't miss trying the area's famous soba noodles; many restaurants offer delicious handmade options. TikTokReddit

Explore Jindaiji Temple in Chofu and treat all your senses!🌿 Stroll through the streets lined with food stalls and enjoy the delicious flavors of traditional Japan.🍡 Also, you can shop for unique souv...
@rakutentravel_global
11.7K likes • 135.3K views
📍Jindaiji Temple (深大寺), the second oldest temple in Tokyo, and the area around it showcase glimpses of traditional Japan. Though I didn’t have time to explore it for more than a couple of hours, witho...
sugalenin
52K likes • 1.9M views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Streets

Wander the charming pedestrian street leading to the temple for unique shops and a traditional atmosphere. Reddit

🌸 Relax in Gardens

Visit the adjacent Jindai Botanical Gardens for a peaceful stroll amidst beautiful flora. Reddit

Jindaiji is a super charming traditional neighborhood that’s home to Tokyo’s second oldest temple and it’s just a short trip from the city center. The whole area has a chill, Kyoto like vibe that make...
jesseogn
23.1K likes • 482.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Easy Access by Bus

Take a bus from nearby train stations like Chofu or Mitaka for direct access to the temple grounds. Reddit

🍜 Savor Local Soba

Don't miss trying the area's famous soba noodles; many restaurants offer delicious handmade options. TikTokReddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Streets

Wander the charming pedestrian street leading to the temple for unique shops and a traditional atmosphere. Reddit

🌸 Relax in Gardens

Visit the adjacent Jindai Botanical Gardens for a peaceful stroll amidst beautiful flora. Reddit

🍃 Enjoy Nature

The temple is set within a natural oasis, offering a refreshing break from the city's intensity. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.3
(8k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Jindaiji Temple is praised as a tranquil, traditional escape from Tokyo's urban intensity, offering a glimpse into historical Japan with its serene temple grounds and charming soba noodle restaurants. Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to experience a less crowded side of the city. Some find the journey slightly inconvenient due to the need for bus transfers.

"I came to area to visit temple and look at flowers in the botanical garden. I went on Monday which was a poor idea as the botanical garden rests on Monday. But for the temple, it was fully open with lots to see. In the back was shrine with ceremonies commencing, lots of flowers and trees were in full bloom, and the entrance to the temple was filled with lots of stores selling tasty snacks like shaved ice, and fried mochi. The temple was quite nice and quiet, a great place to relax and enjoy nature.

Next time I will have to visit on a Tuesday or Thursday in order to visit the garden. Next time"

Stash Panda

"Such a beautiful and historically significant Temple. The grounds are so beautiful with the botanical garden being adjacent. There's also good food that is both delicious and affordable out around the area. There are free maps with historical information for those who are interested."

Marc Zwillinger

"Large temple complex with interesting elements if you’re interested in Japanese religions. It’s connected to the nearby Jindai botanical gardens and they can be enjoyed together. Many souvenirs shops and restaurants outside the temple. It’s quite far from the nearby train station but there’s quite frequently a bus."

Matan Katz

What People Like

Peaceful atmosphere
Traditional charm
Delicious soba noodles

What People Dislike

Bus transfer required

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Shinjuku Station, take the Odakyu Line to Chofu Station, then transfer to a Keio Bus bound for Jindaiji Temple. Alternatively, you can take a JR Chuo Line train to Mitaka Station and then a Keio Bus. TikTokReddit

No, there isn't a direct train line. You'll need to combine a train journey with a bus ride from a nearby station like Chofu or Mitaka. Reddit

The journey from Shinjuku Station to Jindaiji Temple typically takes around 50 minutes to an hour, depending on train and bus connections. TikTok

Yes, Keio Buses operate routes that stop directly at or very near Jindaiji Temple from stations like Chofu and Mitaka. Reddit

While some locals might walk or cycle, it's generally recommended to take a bus from the nearest train stations like Chofu or Mitaka for convenience. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The grounds of Jindaiji Temple itself are generally free to enter. However, specific buildings or gardens within the temple complex might have separate admission fees. TikTok

The temple grounds are typically open from around 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, but it's always a good idea to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours. Instagram

No, advance booking is usually not required for general entry to Jindaiji Temple. You can purchase any applicable fees for specific attractions on-site. Reddit

Jindaiji Temple hosts an annual Soba Noodle Festival, usually in November, which is a major draw for food lovers. TikTok

While some larger restaurants might accept cards, it's advisable to carry cash for smaller shops, food stalls, and temple offerings. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted in most outdoor areas of Jindaiji Temple. However, always be respectful and check for any signs prohibiting photos inside specific buildings or sacred areas. TikTok

The main temple buildings, the serene gardens, the traditional gate, and the charming street leading to the temple offer excellent photo opportunities. The autumn foliage is particularly picturesque. TikTokInstagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in and around temples and religious sites in Japan to maintain peace and prevent disturbance. It's best to avoid flying drones here. Instagram

Be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography. Some interior shots of temple halls might be prohibited. Instagram

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light and fewer crowds, making for more pleasant photography sessions. TikTok

🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining

The area is most famous for its delicious soba noodles, with numerous traditional restaurants serving handmade soba. TikTokReddit

The pedestrian street leading up to Jindaiji Temple is lined with many highly-rated soba restaurants, offering a variety of styles and settings. TikTokReddit

While soba is often made with buckwheat and water, some dishes may contain dashi (fish broth) or other non-vegetarian ingredients. It's best to inquire directly with the restaurants about vegetarian or vegan options. TikTok

You can also find various Japanese snacks, sweets, and street food items along the temple approach, especially during festivals. TikTok

Prices for soba noodles are generally reasonable, with a meal costing around ¥1,000 to ¥2,000 per person. Street food snacks are typically more affordable. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Jindaiji Temple offers a refreshing change of pace for families looking for a less crowded, more traditional Tokyo experience. The temple grounds are spacious enough for children to explore without feeling overwhelmed. TikTok The nearby Jindai Botanical Gardens provide a safe and engaging environment for kids to discover nature, with plenty of open space to run around. Reddit The Kitaro Chaya, with its yokai theme, can also be a fun and quirky stop for younger visitors interested in Japanese folklore. Reddit

When it comes to food, while soba is the specialty, many restaurants are accommodating. Look for simpler soba dishes or other Japanese comfort foods. Packing snacks and drinks is always a good idea, especially for younger children. The overall atmosphere is relaxed, making it a pleasant outing for families seeking a cultural immersion away from the typical tourist hotspots. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples

For solo travelers and couples seeking a peaceful retreat, Jindaiji Temple is an excellent choice. Its tranquil atmosphere and historical significance provide a perfect setting for quiet contemplation and exploration. Instagram+1 You can spend hours wandering the temple grounds, enjoying the gardens, and savoring a leisurely soba meal without feeling rushed. TikTok

The charming streets offer a romantic backdrop, with quaint shops and traditional architecture. It's an ideal destination for a relaxed half-day trip or a full day if you plan to explore the botanical gardens thoroughly. The less touristy nature of Jindaiji allows for a more intimate and authentic experience of Japanese culture. InstagramReddit

🌸 Nature & Garden Enthusiasts

Jindaiji Temple's appeal extends beyond its religious significance to its beautiful natural surroundings. The adjacent Jindai Botanical Gardens are a major draw, featuring diverse collections of plants, themed gardens, and seasonal displays that change throughout the year. Reddit+1 It's a fantastic place for photographers and anyone who appreciates horticulture. Instagram

The temple itself is nestled within a green oasis, offering a sense of calm and connection with nature. The approach to the temple is also lined with trees, providing shade and a pleasant walk. Visiting during autumn can be particularly rewarding, with the vibrant colors of the changing leaves adding to the scenic beauty. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse of Old Tokyo

Jindaiji Temple, founded in 733 AD, is one of Tokyo's oldest temples, offering a serene escape from the modern metropolis. Though the current main hall was rebuilt in 1919, the temple retains a profound sense of history and tranquility. The surrounding area, particularly the charming street leading to the temple, feels like stepping back in time, with traditional wooden buildings, small shops, and a slower pace of life. Many visitors describe it as having a 'Kyoto-like vibe' without the overwhelming crowds. TikTokInstagramReddit

Beyond the temple itself, the area boasts the beautiful Jindai Botanical Gardens, a perfect spot for nature lovers to explore diverse plant collections and enjoy seasonal displays. For fans of Japanese folklore, the Kitaro Chaya offers a whimsical experience inspired by the popular 'GeGeGe no Kitaro' manga, adding a unique cultural layer to your visit. Reddit+1

This destination is ideal for those seeking a more authentic and less tourist-centric experience in Tokyo. It's a place to wander, reflect, and enjoy simple pleasures like a delicious bowl of soba noodles. TikTokInstagram

The Culinary Delights of Soba

Jindaiji is synonymous with soba noodles. The approach to the temple is lined with numerous traditional soba restaurants, each offering their own take on this classic Japanese dish. These eateries often feature rustic interiors and serene garden views, enhancing the dining experience. TikTokReddit

Visitors rave about the quality of the handmade soba here, noting its firm texture and delicate flavor. Whether you prefer hot soba in a savory broth or cold soba served with a dipping sauce, you're likely to find a satisfying meal. Many restaurants also offer tempura or other side dishes to complement your noodles. TikTok+1

Beyond the main soba establishments, you can also find smaller stalls selling soba-related snacks and local delicacies, especially during the annual Soba Noodle Festival. This event, typically held in November, celebrates the region's culinary heritage and attracts many visitors eager to sample different soba varieties. TikTok

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