Tennoji Temple, Tokyo

Tennoji Temple, Tokyo

Tennoji Temple is a centuries-old Buddhist temple that is known around the world for its bronze Buddha statue. It is located at the forefront of the Yanaka Cemetery, a former Buddhist cemetery that was converted to a public space with the Meiji government.

The temple was built in 1274 by Nichiren. The Buddha statue, known locally as Tennoji Daibutsu, was crafted in 1690 by Ota Kyuemon. Tennoji Temple is also home to one of the Seven Lucky Gods, Bishamuonten. He is the protectorate of the righteous and the patron of warriors.

A five-story pagoda once stood near the temple, but was destroyed in 1957 as part of a suicide pact between a married man and his much younger lover.

Now facing Nippori Station, Tennoji Temple offers a respite of solitude from the busy and vibrant Tokyo streets. Visitors can walk through the cemetery and around the grounds as part of their walking tour of the area. The temple is free for all guests.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Tokyo. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Tennoji Temple on Map

Sight Name: Tennoji Temple
Sight Location: Tokyo, Japan (See walking tours in Tokyo)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Tokyo, Japan

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