Bentendo Hall Shinobazu-no-ike
A serene 17th-century Buddhist temple reconstruction on an island in a lotus-filled pond, offering a peaceful escape in Tokyo.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and lotus flowers bloom
Bentendo Hall Shinobazu-no-ike
Best Time
Peaceful and lotus flowers bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene 17th-century Buddhist temple reconstruction on an island in a lotus-filled pond, offering a peaceful escape in Tokyo.
"A surprisingly pleasant small temple surrounded by a lotus flower pond (with turtles!), very quiet in the mornings."
📸 Capture the Beauty
The temple and pond are stunning, especially at night when illuminated. Don't miss the carp swimming among the lotus flowers!
🐢 Pond Life
Keep an eye out for the turtles that inhabit Shinobazu Pond, adding to the charm of this peaceful spot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bentendo Hall
Island in Shinobazu Pond
A picturesque 17th-century Buddhist temple reconstruction, offering a serene spiritual experience.
Shinobazu Pond
Ueno Park
Home to Bentendo Hall, this lotus-filled pond is dotted with turtles and offers a tranquil respite.
Illuminated Evenings
Bentendo Hall and Shinobazu Pond
Experience a magical atmosphere with countless lanterns illuminating the grounds during festival nights.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity
Beyond the Temple Walls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Beauty
The temple and pond are stunning, especially at night when illuminated. Don't miss the carp swimming among the lotus flowers!
🐢 Pond Life
Keep an eye out for the turtles that inhabit Shinobazu Pond, adding to the charm of this peaceful spot.
🏮 Festival Vibes
During festivals, food stalls line the path to the temple, offering a great chance to grab a bite and a drink.
🧘♀️ Inner Peace
Even if you don't go inside, the exterior architecture and serene surroundings offer a soothing respite from the city's pace.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Beauty
The temple and pond are stunning, especially at night when illuminated. Don't miss the carp swimming among the lotus flowers!
🐢 Pond Life
Keep an eye out for the turtles that inhabit Shinobazu Pond, adding to the charm of this peaceful spot.
🏮 Festival Vibes
During festivals, food stalls line the path to the temple, offering a great chance to grab a bite and a drink.
🧘♀️ Inner Peace
Even if you don't go inside, the exterior architecture and serene surroundings offer a soothing respite from the city's pace.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bentendo Hall and Shinobazu Pond for their serene beauty and peaceful atmosphere, especially noting the picturesque temple and the lotus-filled pond. The illuminated evenings during festivals are a particular highlight, creating a magical experience. While the temple interior is typical, the overall ambiance and the natural setting are highly appreciated.
"Lovely temple to visit and to see from afar especially in snow and cherry blossoms and anytime at night while it's illuminated. Many times food stalls are set up leading to the temple during festivals and sakura season so it's a good place to get a drink and a bit of food. i've never been inside but it's really not necessary. Just enjoying the outside architecture up close and away is enough."
Ronin Dave
"A surprisingly pleasant small temple surrounded by a lotus flower pond (with turtles!), very quiet in the mornings. The inside is fairly typical for a temple, peaceful and visually appealing. You can also buy small blessings and similar items."
Jake L
"Benten-do Temple at Shinobazu Pond during the grand festival night ✨
Countless lanterns illuminated the grounds, creating a magical atmosphere 🏮
With the gentle night breeze and the serene presence of the main hall,
it was a truly peaceful and unforgettable moment 💖"
KIICHIRO KOBORI
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bentendo Hall is located within Ueno Park. The easiest way to reach it is by taking the JR Yamanote Line or Tokyo Metro to Ueno Station. From there, it's a short walk into the park and towards Shinobazu Pond.
While there are parking lots within Ueno Park, they can get busy. Public transportation is highly recommended for easier access to Bentendo Hall and Shinobazu Pond.
Yes, Bentendo Hall is situated on an island in Shinobazu Pond, which is a central feature of Ueno Park. You can easily walk to it from various entrances of the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the grounds of Bentendo Hall and Shinobazu Pond is generally free. You can admire the temple from the outside and walk around the pond without purchasing a ticket.
The grounds are accessible during park hours, typically from early morning until evening. The temple interior may have specific visiting hours, but many visitors enjoy the exterior and pond views.
Shinobazu Pond and the surrounding park area are free to enter. You can enjoy the lotus flowers, turtles, and the view of Bentendo Hall without any charge.
Yes, you can enter Bentendo Hall. While the exterior is a major draw, the inside is described as typical for a temple, peaceful, and visually appealing, where you can also buy small blessings.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings offer serene light and fewer crowds, perfect for capturing the temple and pond. Evenings, especially during festivals when illuminated, provide a magical photographic opportunity.
The view of Bentendo Hall from across the pond is iconic. Also, try capturing the lotus flowers up close and the reflections on the water, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Yes, night photography is highly encouraged during illuminated festival nights, as the lanterns create a truly magical and unforgettable atmosphere.
🎫 🌸 Ueno Park Experience
Ueno Park is vast and offers numerous attractions, including several museums (Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum), Ueno Zoo, and beautiful walking paths. It's a great area to spend a full day.
During festivals and sakura season, food stalls are often set up leading to the temple, offering drinks and snacks. There are also cafes and restaurants within Ueno Park and nearby.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Symbolism of Bentendo Hall
For those with a keen eye for history, the Hojo family symbol can be spotted throughout the temple and its surroundings. This symbol, which resembles the Triforce from The Legend of Zelda, has deep roots in the Tokyo area and adds an interesting layer of historical context for those familiar with Japanese history. The presence of this symbol connects the site to a significant period in the region's past.
Beyond its historical and symbolic significance, Bentendo Hall is a place of quiet contemplation. Visitors often describe the atmosphere as peaceful and tranquil, providing a welcome respite from the bustling energy of Tokyo. Whether you're exploring its architecture up close or admiring it from afar, the hall offers a moment of calm and reflection.
Experiencing Shinobazu Pond
The pond is also home to a variety of wildlife, most notably a population of turtles that can often be seen basking in the sun or swimming among the lotus plants. This adds an element of natural charm to the already serene environment. The combination of the blooming lotus, the tranquil water, and the presence of wildlife makes Shinobazu Pond a delightful place to explore.
During festivals and the cherry blossom season, the area around Shinobazu Pond becomes particularly lively. Food stalls often pop up, offering a chance to sample local snacks and drinks while enjoying the festive atmosphere. The pond is also a popular spot for nighttime strolls, especially when Bentendo Hall is illuminated, creating a magical and unforgettable ambiance.
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