📕 Goshuin from visitors
Zoshig-ji Temple
港区芝公園４丁目７−３５
A head temple of the Jodo sect located in Shiba Park, Minato Ward, Tokyo, enshrining Amida Nyorai (Amitabha Buddha) as its main deity. Founded in 1393 CE (Meitoku 4) by the high priest Umei Shoso at Kaitzuka in Musashi Province (near the present-day Kioi-cho area of Chiyoda Ward). Tokugawa Ieyasu's accidental visit during his entry into Edo in 1590 CE (Tensho 18) established a connection that led to the temple becoming the family temple of the Tokugawa clan. It relocated to its current site in 1598 CE (Keicho 3) and flourished throughout the Edo period as a prominent family temple alongside Kan'ei-ji. The Tokugawa mausoleum contains the remains of six shoguns: the 2nd, Hidetada; the 6th, Ienari; the 7th, Ienobu; the 9th, Ienari; the 12th, Ienari; and the 14th, Iemochi. The Sanjutsu Mon (Three Liberation Gate), built in 1622 CE (Genwa 8) and designated an Important Cultural Property, is a rare early Edo-period structure that survived wartime destruction. The temple is also popular for its scenic views juxtaposed with the adjacent Tokyo Tower.
History
As a head temple of the Jodo sect, it flourished as the family temple of the Tokugawa shoguns. It is known for its main hall set against the backdrop of the Tokyo Tower and the Tokugawa mausoleum.
Blessings
It is revered for its spiritual benefits in fulfilling wishes and warding off misfortune.
What visitors say
The view of the main hall with the Tokyo Tower in the background is popular for its beautiful contrast between traditional architecture and the modern tower, offering stunning scenery day or night. The temple grounds are spacious and open, featuring numerous highlights such as the mausoleum of the Tokugawa shoguns and gates that were formerly National Treasures. Entry to the mausoleum and the issuance of Goshuin (temple seal stamps) are available.
Opening hours
- Monday: 9:00 – 17:00
- Tuesday: 9:00 – 17:00
- Wednesday: 9:00 – 17:00
- Thursday: 9:00 – 17:00
- Friday: 9:00 – 17:00
- Saturday: 9:00 – 17:00
- Sunday: 9:00 – 17:00
Annual events & festivals
- 15th of January, May, and SeptemberKurohonson Kigan-e (Prayer for the Black Main Buddha)
A special prayer ceremony for the 'Kurohonson' (Black Main Buddha), the personal devotional image of Tokugawa Ieyasu, seeking victory and good fortune.
A prayer ceremony dedicated to the hidden Buddha 'Kurohonson' (Amitabha), which was venerated by Tokugawa Ieyasu. Held on the 15th of January, May, and September, it seeks victory and improved luck.
HighlightsSee details on the official site ›- ・Hidden Buddha 'Kurohonson'
- ・Prayers for victory and good fortune
- ・15th of January, May, and September
- Around February 3Setsubun Tsuina-shiki (Bean-Throwing Rite)
Prayers for inviting good fortune and warding off evil through bean-throwing by the 'Toshi Otoko' (year's man) and celebrities.
A Setsubun event where the 'Toshi Otoko' and celebrities throw beans to pray for inviting good fortune and dispelling misfortune.
HighlightsSee details on the official site ›- ・Bean-throwing
- ・Inviting good fortune and warding off evil
- December 31Joja no Kane (New Year's Eve Bells) and Countdown
Welcoming the new year with a countdown against the backdrop of Tokyo Tower.
On New Year's Eve, the temple bells are rung at this Tokugawa family ancestral temple, and a New Year's countdown is held in the grounds with Tokyo Tower in the background.
HighlightsSee details on the official site ›- ・Tokyo Tower and New Year's Eve bells
- ・New Year's countdown
- ・Tokugawa family ancestral temple
Dates can shift from year to year. Please check the official information before you go.
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