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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant fall foliage
Jindaiji Temple Tokyo
Best Time
Vibrant fall foliage

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tokyo's second oldest temple, offering a serene escape with traditional soba and charming streets.
"A hidden historical gem offering a peaceful glimpse into traditional Japan, far from the city bustle."
🎯 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Jindaiji Temple Grounds
Chofu City
Explore Tokyo's second oldest temple, a peaceful sanctuary with a rich history and beautiful architecture.

Traditional Soba Restaurants
Approach to Jindaiji Temple
Indulge in authentic, handmade soba noodles at charming eateries lining the temple's entrance.

Jindai Botanical Gardens
Near Jindaiji Temple
Wander through lush greenery and seasonal blooms in these expansive and beautiful gardens.

Kitaro Chaya
Near Jindaiji Temple
A whimsical teahouse inspired by the famous yokai manga 'GeGeGe no Kitaro'.
Planning Your Visit
Escape the City Buzz
Soba & Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
🚶♀️ Explore the Streets
Wander the charming pedestrian street leading to the temple for unique shops and a traditional atmosphere.
🌸 Relax in Gardens
Visit the adjacent Jindai Botanical Gardens for a peaceful stroll amidst beautiful flora.
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.
🍜 Savor Local Soba
Don't miss trying the area's famous soba noodles; many restaurants offer delicious handmade options.
🚶♀️ Explore the Streets
Wander the charming pedestrian street leading to the temple for unique shops and a traditional atmosphere.
🌸 Relax in Gardens
Visit the adjacent Jindai Botanical Gardens for a peaceful stroll amidst beautiful flora.
🍃 Enjoy Nature
The temple is set within a natural oasis, offering a refreshing break from the city's intensity.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
The journey from Shinjuku Station to Jindaiji Temple typically takes around 50 minutes to an hour, depending on train and bus connections.
Yes, Keio Buses operate routes that stop directly at or very near Jindaiji Temple from stations like Chofu and Mitaka.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
No, advance booking is usually not required for general entry to Jindaiji Temple. You can purchase any applicable fees for specific attractions on-site.
Jindaiji Temple hosts an annual Soba Noodle Festival, usually in November, which is a major draw for food lovers.
While some larger restaurants might accept cards, it's advisable to carry cash for smaller shops, food stalls, and temple offerings.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
Be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography. Some interior shots of temple halls might be prohibited.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light and fewer crowds, making for more pleasant photography sessions.
🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining
The area is most famous for its delicious soba noodles, with numerous traditional restaurants serving handmade soba.
The pedestrian street leading up to Jindaiji Temple is lined with many highly-rated soba restaurants, offering a variety of styles and settings.
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.
You can also find various Japanese snacks, sweets, and street food items along the temple approach, especially during festivals.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
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.
🌸 Nature & Garden Enthusiasts
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse of Old Tokyo
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.
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.
The Culinary Delights of Soba
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit