The temple is officially named Joshin-ji, but it is almost universally referred to as 'Kuhonbutsu' by locals due to its iconic nine statues.
The temple grounds are protected as a Setagaya City Natural Monument, home to a variety of ancient trees, including a massive Ginkgo tree.
There are three 'Amida-do' (Amida Halls) arranged in a row, each containing three seated Buddha statues representing different levels of rebirth.
The temple houses a mask used in the traditional 'Omen-kaburi' (mask-wearing) ceremony, a ritual performance involving a procession of monks.
It is one of the few large temple complexes in Tokyo that has retained its original large-scale forest environment since the 17th century.
Kuhonbutsu Joshin-ji Temple is a Jodo-shu Buddhist temple complex located in Setagaya, Tokyo, renowned for its three separate halls housing nine distinct Amida Buddha statues. Founded in 1678 by the priest Keiyo Shudo, the temple grounds encompass a large forested area that is officially designated as a natural monument by the local municipal government. The name 'Kuhonbutsu' refers to the nine levels of paradise in Pure Land Buddhism, represented by the three statues in each of the three main halls. The temple is situated in the Okusawa neighborhood and serves as a green oasis amidst a residential district. The complex features a central gate, a bell tower, and a main hall constructed in the traditional architectural style of the Edo period. Visitors traverse a bridge over a pond to move between the different sections of the temple grounds. Despite its proximity to a train line, the property maintains a serene and secluded character.
The red wooden bridge crossing the pond at the temple entrance provides the most iconic perspective of the main gate.
Walk the full loop of the forested path behind the main halls for the most peaceful experience.
Visit during the early spring or late autumn when the temple gardens are particularly vibrant with seasonal colors.
Respect the signage in certain areas where photography of the interior Buddha statues is prohibited.
Walking through the private cemetery sections reserved for families visiting graves.
Remove shoes before entering the temple halls; maintain a low voice; no photography inside buildings where signs indicate.
