
Kuhonbutsu Joshinji Temple
A vast, serene temple in Tokyo's Setagaya Ward, known for its ancient trees, nine Buddha statues, and stunning seasonal beauty.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant fall colors

Kuhonbutsu Joshinji Temple
Best Time
Vibrant fall colors

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast, serene temple in Tokyo's Setagaya Ward, known for its ancient trees, nine Buddha statues, and stunning seasonal beauty.
"A beautiful and quiet temple located in Tokyo..! It is beautiful in all the seasons."

🚶♀️ Explore the Vast Grounds
The temple boasts a huge, spacious plot of land, offering a tranquil escape within Tokyo .
🍁 Catch the Autumn Colors
Visit in fall for stunning red and yellow foliage that creates a picturesque scene .

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.5 · 2,014 reviews
Type
Place of Worship
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Nine Amida Buddhas
Main Hall vicinity
Marvel at the impressive golden statues of nine Amida Buddhas, each with a unique hand gesture.

Ancient Cedar Tree
Temple grounds
Stand in awe of one of Tokyo's oldest trees, a majestic cedar over 700 years old .

Seasonal Foliage
Temple grounds
Experience vibrant autumn leaves or delicate cherry blossoms painting the serene temple landscape .

Enma-do Hall
Temple grounds
Gain life lessons from the imposing Enma Daiou Sama statue; offering a coin can be a unique experience .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape the Crowds: Find Serenity
Best Time for Stunning Scenery
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Explore the Vast Grounds
The temple boasts a huge, spacious plot of land, offering a tranquil escape within Tokyo.
🍁 Catch the Autumn Colors
Visit in fall for stunning red and yellow foliage that creates a picturesque scene.
🌸 Spring Cherry Blossoms
Enjoy the delicate beauty of cherry blossoms in spring, adding charm to the temple grounds.
📖 English Signage Available
Signs around the grounds provide descriptions in both Japanese and English for better understanding.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Explore the Vast Grounds
The temple boasts a huge, spacious plot of land, offering a tranquil escape within Tokyo.
🍁 Catch the Autumn Colors
Visit in fall for stunning red and yellow foliage that creates a picturesque scene.
🌸 Spring Cherry Blossoms
Enjoy the delicate beauty of cherry blossoms in spring, adding charm to the temple grounds.
📖 English Signage Available
Signs around the grounds provide descriptions in both Japanese and English for better understanding.
🧘♀️ Find Inner Peace
This temple is a beautiful and quiet spot, perfect for reflection and a break from city life.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Kuhonbutsu Joshinji Temple as a beautiful, spacious, and tranquil hidden gem in Tokyo. Its serene grounds, impressive Buddha statues, and stunning seasonal foliage are frequently highlighted, offering a peaceful escape from the city's bustle. Some find the Enma-do Hall particularly interesting for its unique life lessons.
"I feel like this is a hidden gem in Tokyo! I'd never heard of this temple before, but the grounds are huge and the temples and surrounding greenery is beautiful. It includes Japanese maple trees, cherry blossoms and cedar trees that really help isolate the temple from the outside world.
The temples house several golden Buddhas that are amazing to see, and there are plenty of signs around the grounds with both Japanese and English descriptions.
I can't wait to see this temple again!"
Chris Birdwell
"A large temple a short walk near Kuhombutsu station. Great, spacious place."
TIMOTHY LOI SOSMENA
"A wonderful temple that lets you see the wonderful statue of Buddha. It is truly dignified, affordable and boring! !! And the fun of Enma-do is also fun! !
I was allowed to cool in the main hall. the 9 Buddhas outside the main hall are also wonderful. I pray that the restoration will continue without interruption ❤️"
Raj Sharma
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The temple is a short walk from Kuhonbutsu Station on the Tokyu Oimachi Line. From Shibuya, it's about a 15-minute journey. It's considered a peaceful escape within Tokyo.
Yes, it's located in Setagaya Ward, Tokyo. Follow signs from Kuhonbutsu Station for a straightforward walk to the temple grounds.
Taking the train to Kuhonbutsu Station is recommended. The temple is then a short walk away, making it easily accessible without a car.
While in Tokyo, it offers a serene experience away from the busiest areas. It's about 15 minutes from Shibuya, making it a convenient day trip.
The temple is located near the upscale neighborhood of Jiyugaoka, offering a contrast of modern city life and ancient tranquility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The temple grounds are generally free to enter, offering an affordable way to experience its beauty and history.
The temple is open daily from 6:00 AM to 4:30 PM, allowing for visits throughout the day.
Yes, visitors can enter the main temple hall to see the Buddha statues up close.
No advance booking is typically required for general entry to the temple grounds.
While the grounds are spacious, some areas might have uneven terrain. It's advisable to check accessibility details if needed.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted on the temple grounds, allowing you to capture its serene beauty and seasonal changes.
The areas with the nine Buddha statues, the ancient cedar tree, and the seasonal foliage (autumn leaves or cherry blossoms) are highly photogenic.
While not explicitly stated, it's always respectful to avoid intrusive photography, especially during prayer times or in sacred areas.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the photographic experience.
While some videos mention cats, they are not a primary feature of this temple, unlike the famous Gotokuji Temple. Focus on the temple's architecture and nature.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
You can see the nine Amida Buddha statues, a 700-year-old cedar tree, various temple halls, and beautiful natural scenery that changes with the seasons.
Compared to other Tokyo attractions, Kuhonbutsu Joshinji Temple is often described as peaceful and less crowded, especially on weekdays.
Established in 1678, the temple has a rich history and is built on the former grounds of Okusawa Castle.
Yes, signs around the grounds often include English descriptions, making it informative for international visitors.
Its vast, serene grounds, ancient trees, impressive Buddha statues, and beautiful seasonal foliage offer a unique sense of tranquility within Tokyo.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit