Zenshoan Temple
A tranquil temple in Yanaka, featuring a striking golden Kannon statue and the historic grave of Yamaoka Tesshu.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Zenshoan Temple
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil temple in Yanaka, featuring a striking golden Kannon statue and the historic grave of Yamaoka Tesshu.
"A small little temple tucked into the Yanaka area. Worth a quick pop-in visit for the grave of Yamaoka Tesshu for those who like Japanese history and for most people the picturesque golden Kannon statue that makes for some good photos particularly at sunset."
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Catch the golden Kannon statue bathed in the warm glow of sunset for stunning photos. :camerawithflash:
📜 Goshuin Available
You can secure a written goshuin (temple seal) here. :scroll:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Golden Kannon Statue
Temple Grounds
An eye-catching, picturesque golden statue of Kannon, perfect for memorable photos, especially at sunset.
Grave of Yamaoka Tesshu
Temple Graveyard
Visit the resting place of Yamaoka Tesshu, a significant historical figure from the late Tokugawa shogunate.
August Ghost Scroll Exhibition
Special Room (August only)
See ancient hanging scrolls depicting ghosts, some dating back nearly two centuries, during the month of August.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tranquility
Historical Significance & Photo Ops
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Catch the golden Kannon statue bathed in the warm glow of sunset for stunning photos. :camerawithflash:
📜 Goshuin Available
You can secure a written goshuin (temple seal) here. :scroll:
🚶♀️ Explore Yanaka
Combine your visit with a stroll through the charming Yanaka neighborhood. :walking:
👻 August Special
Don't miss the unique ghost scroll exhibition if visiting in August. :ghost:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Catch the golden Kannon statue bathed in the warm glow of sunset for stunning photos. :camerawithflash:
📜 Goshuin Available
You can secure a written goshuin (temple seal) here. :scroll:
🚶♀️ Explore Yanaka
Combine your visit with a stroll through the charming Yanaka neighborhood. :walking:
👻 August Special
Don't miss the unique ghost scroll exhibition if visiting in August. :ghost:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Zenshoan Temple to be a serene and quiet spot, perfect for a brief visit while exploring the Yanaka area. The picturesque golden Kannon statue is a major draw for photos, and the historical significance, particularly the grave of Yamaoka Tesshu, appeals to history enthusiasts. While generally free, a special August exhibition offers a unique cultural experience.
"Serene and quiet place for a visit and was able to secure written goshuin."
Beth Daguindal
"Small little temple tucked into the Yanaka area. Worth a quick pop-in visit for the grave of Yamaoka Tesshu for those who like Japanese history and for most people the picturesque golden Kannon statue that makes for some good photos particularly at sunset. It's free to visit the grounds but throughout the month of August for 500¥ (as of 2023) one can visit a special room to see hanging scrolls of ghosts some dating back nearly two centuries."
Ronin Dave
"The iconic gold statue was very eye catching. It located right in the middle of the graveyard. The temple was founded in 1883 by Yamaoka Tesshu, praying for those who died during the closing days of the Tokugawa shogunate and the Meiji Restoration in 1868. It's worth visiting if you were strolling in the neighbourhood."
Martlet
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Zenshoan Temple is located in the Yanaka area. It's best accessed by public transport. The nearest stations are Nippori Station (JR Yamanote Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, Joban Line, Takasaki Line, Utsunomiya Line) or Sendagi Station (Chiyoda Line). From either station, it's a pleasant walk through the neighborhood.
While both are in Tokyo, Zenshoan Temple is in the Yanaka district, while Sensoji Temple is in Asakusa. They are not immediately adjacent but can be visited on the same day with public transport.
Walking is the best way to explore Yanaka. You can discover hidden temples, traditional shops, and local life at your own pace.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The temple grounds of Zenshoan Temple are free to visit. However, there is a fee (500 JPY as of 2023) to enter a special room during August to view hanging scrolls of ghosts.
The temple grounds are generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific opening times for any special exhibitions or rooms may vary, especially for the August ghost scroll viewing. It's advisable to check locally if you have specific times in mind.
Yes, visitors can secure a written goshuin (temple seal) at Zenshoan Temple.
📸 📸 Photography
The picturesque golden Kannon statue is a prime subject, especially beautiful during the golden hour at sunset. The temple's graveyard also offers a unique, serene backdrop for photography.
Generally, photography is allowed on the temple grounds, but it's always respectful to be mindful of ongoing ceremonies or private areas. Always check for any posted signage regarding photography.
🎫 🏛️ History & Culture
Zenshoan Temple was founded in 1883 by Yamaoka Tesshu. He established it to pray for the souls of those who died during the tumultuous closing days of the Tokugawa shogunate and the Meiji Restoration in 1868.
Yamaoka Tesshu was a prominent samurai, calligrapher, and Zen Buddhist layman who played a crucial role during the Meiji Restoration. His grave is a point of interest at the temple.
The temple offers a connection to the late Edo and early Meiji periods through the grave of Yamaoka Tesshu and its founding purpose. The ghost scroll exhibition in August provides a glimpse into historical art and beliefs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ History Buffs
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Golden Kannon and Its Significance
This statue is situated within the temple's graveyard, adding a unique juxtaposition of serenity and remembrance. Its placement amidst the gravestones serves as a reminder of Kannon's role in offering solace to both the living and the departed. Many find the combination of the golden statue and the quiet graveyard to be a deeply moving experience, offering a moment of reflection on life and spirituality.
Yamaoka Tesshu: A Historical Figure
The temple was founded by Tesshu himself in 1883, with the explicit purpose of praying for the souls of those who perished during the turbulent conflicts of the late Tokugawa shogunate and the subsequent Meiji Restoration. This historical context imbues Zenshoan Temple with a profound sense of remembrance and peace, honoring the sacrifices made during a critical period in Japan's development. Visiting the temple offers a tangible connection to this significant historical narrative.
The August Ghost Scroll Exhibition
While the temple grounds are always accessible, this exhibition requires entry into a special room and involves a modest fee (500 JPY as of 2023). It's a chance to see rare and historically significant artworks that are not typically on display. For those interested in the more esoteric aspects of Japanese culture, this August event is a must-see, providing a different perspective on the temple's offerings beyond its serene daytime beauty.
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