Temple · Gokokuji / Otowa
Gokokuji Temple 護国寺
Grand Shingon temple founded in 1681 by shogun Tsunayoshi for his mother, with a Genroku-era main hall that survived Tokyo's earthquakes and air raids.
HoursMain hall 10:00-16:00 (closed 12:00-13:00)
ClosedMain hall closed during some ceremonies (Oct 18-30, 2026)
PriceFree
Getting thereGokokuji Station (Yurakucho Line), next to the gate
Time needed45 min
Best timeWeekday mornings; autumn leaves
Address5-40-1 Otsuka, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 112-0012
Websitegokokuji.or.jp
About
Gokokuji was founded in 1681 at the wish of Keishoin, mother of the fifth shogun Tokugawa Tsunayoshi. Fires destroyed many buildings, but the Kannon-do main hall of the Genroku era still stands, along with the Gekkoden, a Momoyama-period hall moved from Miidera in Shiga and designated an Important Cultural Property. The spacious grounds include a two-storey pagoda and a large cemetery with graves of Meiji-era statesmen.
Highlights
- Genroku-era Kannon-do main hall
- Gekkoden, a Momoyama-period hall moved from Miidera
- Tahoto pagoda and Edo-style grounds
- Right at Gokokuji Station
Tips
- The main hall closes for lunch from 12:00 to 13:00
- Check notices for ceremony closures before going
Open in Google Maps · Info checked 2026-10-10
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