Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple

Did you know there is a temple inspired by Ancient Indian Buddhist architecture right next to Tsukiji Market? If you are visiting the market,  take your chance to extend your trip to this temple. It only takes 1 minute!

What is Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple

Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple (築地本願寺), sometimes spelled as “Tsukiji Honganji,” is a Jodo Shinshu Buddhism temple located only 1 minute away from the famous Tsukiji Fish Market (Tsukiji Outer Market) in Tokyo. It was originally built in 1617 under the direct control of Nishi Honganji Temple in Kyoto.

In 1934, the main hall of the temple was reconstructed following the style of ancient Indian architecture. The cool and unique appearance of the temple attracts a lot of visitors nowadays. Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple is definitely one of the most photo-worthy temples in Tokyo.

This temple is also known as the final resting place of legendary musician Hide (Hideto Matsumoto) from the famous rock band X-Japan. It was here that his funerary ceremony was held after his passing in 1998. To this day, countless fans continue to visit this temple for this reason.

What to Do at Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple

Explore the Unique Architecture

Admire the temple’s stunning design, inspired by ancient Indian Buddhist architecture, which sets it apart from traditional Japanese temples.

Experience the Morning Service

Visitors can attend the temple’s early morning Buddhist services, offering a serene and spiritual experience.

Enjoy a Meal at Café Tsumugi

The temple’s café serves a special Buddhist-inspired breakfast, light meals, and nice desserts, providing a peaceful dining experience.

Listen to Pipe Organ Performances

Besides its architectural style, a striking feature in Tsukiji Hongwanji is a grand pipe organ with 2000 pipes, which was designed and donated by Walker, a German pipe organ manufacturer. If you’re lucky, you might have the chance to listen to one of the occasional performances open to the public.

Book a Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple Tour

There are also tours you can take to get to know Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple more deeply! Check out our article for more information about these tours!

▶Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple Tours: Night Concert & Early Morning Temple Experience

How to Get to Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple

Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple is conveniently located in central Tokyo and is easily accessible by public transportation. For those coming by subway, there are several nearby stations. The closest one is Tsukiji Station (Exit 1) on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, only 1-minute walk. Otherwise, it’s a 5-minute walk from Shintomicho Station on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line and 7 minutes from Higashi-Ginza Station on the Toei Asakusa Line

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Information

Business Hours	6 AM–4 PM
Price	Free
Official Website	https://tsukijihongwanji.jp/

Tourist Reviews of Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple

Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple in Tokyo, known for its striking architecture and cultural significance. It holds a Google rating of 4.2 (7,178 reviews), a TripAdvisor score of 4.0 (1,053 reviews), and a 90% recommendation on Facebook (406 reviews). Visitors praise its unique blend of Indian and Japanese architectural styles, peaceful ambiance, and special events.

A TripAdvisor visitor described their unforgettable experience:

“It was magical. It’s hard to describe this experience as it was truly one of a kind. To be able to be in such a historically important temple after hours, to talk with personnel, and see a musical service was such a treat and a memory I will cherish for a long time. The warmth of the performances and the light they emitted will be engraved into my heart forever.”

―from TripAdvisor

A Facebook reviewer highlighted both the beauty of the temple and the amenities available:

“The architecture is beautiful, and of course, the food at the temple café was delicious. The gift shop had so many great souvenirs that I had trouble choosing. It’s also a great place to enjoy different events!” (Translated from Japanese)

―from Facebook

Many visitors appreciate Tsukiji Hongwanji’s open and welcoming atmosphere, its impressive design inspired by ancient Indian temples, and its role as a cultural hub.

Tourist Attractions Near Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple

1. Tsukiji Outer Market

Just a short walk away, the legendary Tsukiji Outer Market offers a variety of fresh seafood, street food, and local delicacies.

More info: Tsukiji Outer Market: Explore the Famous Fish Market in Tokyo

2. Hamarikyu Gardens

A beautiful traditional Japanese garden with a tea house and scenic pond, perfect for a relaxing stroll.

More info: Hamarikyu Gardens: Scenic Japanese Garden near Tsukiji Fish Market

Ginza Shopping District

One of Tokyo’s most famous shopping areas, Ginza is home to luxury boutiques, department stores, and fine dining.

More info: Ginza: An All‑in‑One Guide for International Visitors

Rent an e-bike and ride around Tsukiji and other parts of Tokyo!

Embark on a remarkable journey through Tokyo with Compass E-Bike, designed specifically for those eager to explore.

These electric bikes, forged from aircraft-grade aluminum and powered by efficient electric motors, are adept at navigating through Tokyo’s varied landscapes, from its bustling urban areas to its peaceful parks. Compass offers a range of rental options, from short-term to all-day, including a special guided tour of Tokyo.

The process is streamlined with online booking and easy bike collection. These eco-friendly bikes make exploring Tokyo’s rich cultural scenes and scenic beauty effortless, freeing you from the hassles of traffic and parking.

▶Official website: https://www.compassbike.com/

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