A Brief History of Zojoji Temple In Tokyo

The original buildings, temples, mausoleums and the cathedral were destroyed by fire, natural disasters or air raids during World War II. The Sangedatsu Gate is the only surviving structure but the rest have been beautifully restored. Because of the temple’s prime real estate near Tokyo Tower, the surrounding land has been sold off or repurposed. Nevertheless, surrounded by Shiba Park, the temple grounds always feel spacious. Another of the temple’s standout features is its cemetery for unborn children. The rows and rows of jizo statues represent the souls of children who died before birth. Parents use the statues as a way to say farewell and ease the child’s passage into the afterlife.
And of course, the Tokugawa’s graves and mausoleums can also be found at Zojoji. The original pieces of their graves have been designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. With so much history and tradition guarded within, it’s no wonder Zojoji Temple continues to be an important Buddhist and cultural center, and a spectacular monument to the might and power of the Tokugawa family in Tokyo.
Open 9 AM – 5 PM daily