Tennoji Temple Yanaka Tokyo
Discover tranquility at Tennoji Temple, home to a grand bronze Buddha, nestled in Tokyo's historic Yanaka district.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Tennoji Temple Yanaka Tokyo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover tranquility at Tennoji Temple, home to a grand bronze Buddha, nestled in Tokyo's historic Yanaka district.
"A peaceful oasis with a majestic Buddha, surrounded by the charm of old Tokyo."
🚶♀️ Wander Yanaka Ginza
Explore the charming Yanaka Ginza street for local snacks and souvenirs. It's a short walk from the temple!
⏰ Go Early for Peace
Arrive in the morning to enjoy the temple's serenity before the day-trippers arrive.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Great Bronze Buddha
Main Hall
Marvel at the impressive, large bronze seated Buddha statue, a serene centerpiece of the temple.

Peaceful Temple Grounds
Entire Temple Complex
Wander through the tranquil gardens and historic structures, offering a peaceful escape.

Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street
Adjacent to Tennoji Temple
Experience a traditional Tokyo shopping street with local snacks, crafts, and a nostalgic atmosphere.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity of Yanaka
Explore the Yanaka District
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wander Yanaka Ginza
Explore the charming Yanaka Ginza street for local snacks and souvenirs. It's a short walk from the temple!
⏰ Go Early for Peace
Arrive in the morning to enjoy the temple's serenity before the day-trippers arrive.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the temple and Yanaka district.
📸 Capture the Ambiance
The temple grounds and surrounding streets offer beautiful photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wander Yanaka Ginza
Explore the charming Yanaka Ginza street for local snacks and souvenirs. It's a short walk from the temple!
⏰ Go Early for Peace
Arrive in the morning to enjoy the temple's serenity before the day-trippers arrive.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the temple and Yanaka district.
📸 Capture the Ambiance
The temple grounds and surrounding streets offer beautiful photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Tennoji Temple for its serene atmosphere and the impressive Great Bronze Buddha statue, offering a peaceful escape in Tokyo. The adjacent Yanaka Ginza is a hit for its nostalgic charm and delicious street food. Some find the temple itself to be smaller than expected, but the overall experience of the district is highly regarded.
"Stumbled upon Tennoji Temple while making our way to Yanaka Ginza (went the wrong way). The grounds are beautifully maintained, and we were fortunate enough to see the cherry blossom in bloom."
Isaac Siegel
"A peaceful Temple Complex plus a stunning Garden, especially fancy that seated faithful Buddha Status👍That’s definitely worthy to sit for a while to feel peaceful vibes🌸 even a cute cat pop out and Miao🐈"
Sophia W
"- lovely and small shrine -
We came across this place during our morning walk. Only a few people came to pray before working. The design of the shrine is nice even though there aren't many flowers in the winter. While it's probably not worth a special visit here, you should check it out if you are in the neighborhood."
L
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tennoji Temple is easily accessible by public transport. The nearest stations are Nippori Station (JR Yamanote Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, Joban Line, Keisei Main Line) and Sendagi Station (Chiyoda Line). From Nippori Station, it's about a 10-15 minute walk to the temple and Yanaka Ginza.
Yes, Tennoji Temple is located in the historic Yanaka district, adjacent to Yanaka Ginza shopping street. It's also a reasonable distance from Ueno Park and Asakusa, making it easy to combine with other Tokyo sightseeing.
Taxis are available in Tokyo, but can be expensive. Public transportation is generally more efficient and cost-effective for reaching Tennoji Temple. If you do take a taxi, ensure your driver knows the Yanaka area.
Walking is the best way to explore Yanaka and its surroundings, including Tennoji Temple and Yanaka Ginza. This allows you to discover hidden alleys and local shops at your own pace.
Parking in Tokyo can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation rather than driving to Tennoji Temple. There are limited parking options in the Yanaka area, and they may be costly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tennoji Temple is generally free to enter and explore its grounds. Donations are always appreciated to help with the temple's upkeep.
The temple grounds are typically open from morning until late afternoon. Specific hours can vary, so it's advisable to check for any seasonal changes or special events.
Yes, the impressive Great Bronze Buddha statue is a central feature of Tennoji Temple and is accessible to visitors.
Tennoji Temple sometimes hosts special events, particularly around New Year's and other significant Japanese holidays. It's worth checking local listings or the temple's official information if available.
No, advance booking is not required for Tennoji Temple as entry to the grounds is free. You can visit spontaneously.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted within the temple grounds, but it's always respectful to be mindful of worshippers and avoid intrusive shots. Some specific areas might have restrictions.
The Great Bronze Buddha statue is a must-capture. The temple's serene gardens and traditional architecture also offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at temples and shrines in Japan to maintain peace and respect. It's best to avoid bringing drones to Tennoji Temple.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the photographic experience. Golden hour can be particularly beautiful.
Yes, photography is generally allowed in Yanaka Ginza, allowing you to capture the vibrant street life and local vendors. Be polite and ask permission if photographing individuals up close.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The adjacent Yanaka Ginza shopping street is famous for its street food and local snacks. Look for delicious treats like menchi-katsu (fried minced meat cutlet), sweet potato snacks, and traditional Japanese sweets.
Yes, the Yanaka district offers a variety of dining options, from small local eateries serving traditional Japanese cuisine to cafes. You can find everything from soba noodles to tempura.
While traditional Japanese cuisine can be meat and fish-heavy, you can often find vegetarian options like vegetable tempura, vegetable soba, or rice dishes. Exploring local cafes might also yield more diverse choices.
Don't miss out on the 'menchi-katsu' (fried meat cutlet), 'yakitori' (grilled skewers), and various 'wagashi' (Japanese sweets). Many vendors offer samples.
Eating in Yanaka Ginza can be quite affordable, especially if you stick to street food and local snacks. Restaurants might offer a range of price points.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that while the temple grounds are peaceful, younger children might need supervision to ensure they respect the sacred space. The Yanaka district itself is relatively flat and walkable, making it manageable for strollers. Consider a visit during a weekday morning to avoid larger crowds and allow children to explore more freely.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Utilizing Tokyo's efficient public transportation system, like the JR Yamanote Line to Nippori Station, is also cost-effective for reaching the area. By focusing on free attractions like the temple and affordable dining options, you can have a rich cultural experience in Yanaka on a budget.
📸 Photographers
Don't miss Yanaka Ginza for vibrant street photography, capturing the daily life, colorful stalls, and unique characters. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer beautiful light, and exploring the quieter side streets of Yanaka can reveal hidden architectural gems and charming scenes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Tennoji Temple
The temple's significance extends beyond its architecture; it's a place of quiet reflection and a connection to traditional Japanese Buddhist practices. Visitors often find solace in its serene grounds, a stark contrast to the surrounding urban environment. The presence of the large Buddha statue is particularly awe-inspiring, drawing visitors seeking both spiritual connection and historical appreciation.
While the temple itself is a historical landmark, its integration into the vibrant Yanaka neighborhood adds another layer to its appeal. The surrounding streets, including the bustling Yanaka Ginza, offer a living history of Tokyo's traditional lifestyle, making a visit to Tennoji Temple a holistic cultural experience.
Exploring the Yanaka District and Yanaka Ginza
Yanaka Ginza is a vibrant hub where locals and tourists alike can find a variety of goods. From delicious street food like 'menchi-katsu' and 'yakitori' to unique crafts and souvenirs, the street offers a sensory delight. It's the perfect place to sample local delicacies and experience the friendly atmosphere of a traditional Japanese 'shotengai' (shopping street).
Beyond the shopping street, the Yanaka area is dotted with numerous smaller temples and shrines, quiet residential streets, and charming cafes. It's an ideal area for leisurely strolls, allowing you to discover hidden gems and soak in the authentic atmosphere of old Tokyo. Combining a visit to Tennoji Temple with an exploration of Yanaka Ginza provides a comprehensive taste of Tokyo's historical and cultural heart.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit