Tsukiji Hongwanji: A large temple in Tokyo with Indian-style architecture
Tsukiji Hongwanji is a direct temple of Nishi Hongwanji in Kyoto and is one of Tokyo’s most prominent Buddhist temples. Located right next to the popular Tsukiji Market, it is a well-known sightseeing spot often visited together with the market. Unlike most Japanese temples, Tsukiji Hongwanji features a unique architectural style influenced by Indian and Islamic architecture. Visitors who have seen Buddhist temples in Kamakura or Kyoto may be surprised by its distinctive design.
History of Tsukiji Hongwanji
Tsukiji Hongwanji was originally built in 1617 near Asakusa as a branch temple of Kyoto’s Nishi Hongwanji. However, it was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1657. Due to urban planning policies by the Edo Shogunate, it could not be rebuilt in the original location. Instead, the shogunate granted land in what is now Tsukiji, but this land was originally part of the sea. The name “Tsukiji” means “reclaimed land,” reflecting the fact that the temple grounds were created through land reclamation.
Despite these efforts, Tsukiji Hongwanji was once again destroyed in the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923.
The current distinctive temple building was designed by Tokyo University professor and architect Chuta Ito and was completed in 1934, making it a relatively modern Buddhist temple in Japan.
Architectural Style of Tsukiji Hongwanji
The first thing that surprises visitors to Tsukiji Hongwanji is its architectural style. While most Japanese Buddhist temples are heavily influenced by Chinese architecture, Tsukiji Hongwanji, built in the 20th century, is different. The temple’s design was inspired by the architecture of the Silk Road, which architect Chuta Ito had studied during his travels. The main hall is made of reinforced concrete, an unusual choice for religious buildings in early 20th-century Japan, and is richly adorned with marble carvings.
The temple also incorporates European architectural influences. The entrance floor features mosaics, the main hall has stained glass windows, and, unusually for a Buddhist temple, a pipe organ is installed.
In 2014, the main hall, as well as the Oya stone walls and the three-gate pillars, were designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan.
Events Held at Tsukiji Hongwanji
New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day Services – December 31 & January 1
On New Year’s Eve, up to 350 people can participate in ringing the temple bell. The New Year’s Day service starts at 6:30 AM.
Coming-of-Age Ceremony – Mid-January
This ceremony allows young adults to express gratitude for their upbringing and make a renewed commitment to leading a responsible life. Visitors to Tsukiji Hongwanji on this day may see many young people dressed in traditional kimono.
Hanamatsuri – April
Held in early April, Hanamatsuri is a festival celebrating the birth of Buddha. In addition to the traditional practice of pouring sweet tea over a Buddha statue, the event features performances of traditional Japanese instruments and a parade, making it enjoyable for people of all ages.
Tsukiji Hongwanji Summer Bon Dance Festival – June to August
Held from late June to early August, this summer festival features traditional Bon Odori dances and food stalls. Dubbed “Japan’s Most Delicious Bon Dance Festival,” visitors can enjoy festival foods, including specialties from Tsukiji Market such as tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet) and motsu nikomi (stewed offal).
English Dharma Service
Tsukiji Hongwanji offers Buddhist sermons in English.
Schedule: Click here
Lunchtime Concert
On the last Friday of each month from 12:00 PM to 12:50 PM, a pipe organ concert featuring Buddhist hymns and classical music is held in the main hall. Admission is free.
Dining at Tsukiji Hongwanji
Japanese Restaurant “Shisui”
Shisui serves traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, seasonal set meals made with fresh ingredients from the market, and Tsukiji Hongwanji’s specialty “monzen soba” (temple gate soba).
Location: 1st Floor, Daiichi Dendo Kaikan (First Missionary Hall)
Hours: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Tsukiji Hongwanji Café Tsumugi
Since its opening in 2017, Tsumugi has become a famous temple café with long waiting lines. It offers a modern take on Japanese cuisine.
A highly recommended dish is the “18-item Breakfast” (2,200 yen), served exclusively during breakfast hours (8:00 AM – 10:30 AM). This set includes 16 small side dishes, rice porridge, and miso soup. While the ingredients come from Tsukiji Market, the ambiance of Tsumugi is a serene and modern Japanese setting, with large glass windows overlooking the temple.
The café also serves lunch sets, shaved ice, and traditional Japanese parfaits throughout the day.
Location: Inside Tsukiji Hongwanji Information Center
Address: 3-15-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045
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Nearby Attractions
Tsukiji Outer Market
A lively market area where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, sushi, and traditional Japanese foods.
Sumida River Terrace
A scenic walkway along both sides of the Sumida River. It is a great place to take a relaxing stroll after exploring Tsukiji Hongwanji and the bustling Tsukiji Market.
Address: 6-19-20 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Hamarikyu Gardens
A historic Edo-period garden once owned by the Tokugawa shogunate. Covering 25 hectares, it offers a tranquil retreat within the city.
Tsukishima Monja Street
A street famous for monjayaki, a Tokyo-style savory pancake made with seasoned flour batter and grilled on a hot plate. This retro-style street is lined with well-known monjayaki restaurants.
Access: 1-minute walk from Tsukishima Station (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line & Toei Oedo Line)
Address: 1-3 Tsukishima, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Website
Access to Tsukiji Hongwanji
Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji-ha Tsukiji Hongwanji
Address: 3-15-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-8435
Hours: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM (until the evening service ends)
Website
By Subway
- Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line: Directly connected to Tsukiji Station (Exit 1)
- Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line: 5-minute walk from Shintomicho Station (Exit 4)
- Toei Asakusa Line: 5-minute walk from Higashi-Ginza Station (Exit 5)
- Toei Oedo Line: 5-minute walk from Tsukiji Shijo Station (Exit A1)
