Sengakuji Temple (Minato Ward, Tokyo)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Sengakuji Temple is a Rinzai Zen temple (Soto Zen branch) located in Takanawa, Minato Ward, Tokyo, and is known as a historic site connected to the famous Edo period incident, "Ako Roshi (Chushingura)." The graves of Asano Takumi-no-kami (Asano Naganori) and the Ako domain samurai (commonly known as the 47 Ronin) who died for him are located within the temple grounds, and the temple is visited by many history buffs and tourists from Japan and abroad. The tranquil temple grounds, orderly cemetery, and the old-fashioned appearance of the main gate and hall all create a charming atmosphere that captures the Edo period.

The temple grounds also house the Sengakuji Treasure Museum, which displays documents and personal belongings related to the Ako Gishi, allowing visitors to learn about the background of the incident and the personalities of the samurai. Every year on December 14th, the Gishi Festival (Gishi Festival/Memorial Service for the Gishi) is held, attracting many visitors and media coverage.

Highlights

• Graveyard of the Ako Gishi: A place where the graves of Asano Takumi no Kami and the 47 Ronin are lined up. You can see up close the arrangement of the gravestones, the shape of the group graves, and the nameplates (posthumous names and posthumous names at the graves).
• Sanmon Gate and Main HallThe Edo-style design of the temple grounds and the calming architecture make it a great photo spot. You can also take a leisurely stroll through the quiet gardens and approach to the temple.
• Sengakuji Treasure Museum (treasure exhibition): Documents, copies, and personal belongings related to the samurai are on display. You can deepen your understanding of the events and the people involved (please note that there are changes to exhibits and closing days, so it is recommended to check in advance).
• Gishi Festival (December 14th): A memorial service will be held to commemorate the day of the raid, worshippers will lay flowers, and related parties will hold a ceremony. It will be crowded with reporters and worshippers, but you can observe the historical rites.
• The quiet atmosphere of the cemetery: Though it is in the heart of the city, it maintains a quiet atmosphere, making it a great place for historical strolls and photography. The townscape around Omotesando is also charming.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest station：About 1 minute walk from Sengakuji Station (Toei Asakusa Line/Keikyu Main Line). Very easy access from the station.
• Using JR: Approximately 10-15 minutes on foot from Shinagawa Station (depending on traffic congestion and walking speed). You can also take a taxi or local bus from Shinagawa Station.
• From the airport: Direct access via the Keikyu Line is convenient (from Haneda Airport via Keikyu → Sengakuji or Shinagawa).
• Car/bus: Due to the congested roads and limited parking in the surrounding area, we recommend using public transportation. Tourist bus tours may require prior arrangements.
• Note: There are some slopes around the station, so please be careful of your footing and when moving around with a stroller.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Temple grounds only: 30-45 minutes (visiting the graveyard and main hall, strolling around the temple grounds)
• If you also visit the Treasure Museum: Approximately 60 to 90 minutes
• If you want to enjoy a leisurely stroll around the historical sites and surrounding area, it takes 90 minutes to half a day.

Nearby spots

• Around Shinagawa Station: There are plenty of shopping malls (atre) and restaurants. Convenient for quick shopping and meals.
• Tennozu Isle: There are art galleries and cafes along the canal, and it's recommended for a stroll (it's only a few minutes by train).
• Takanawa/Shirokane area: Dotted with historic mansions, relaxing cafes, and shops.
• Visiting temples and shrines in Minato Ward: It's also a good idea to combine your visit with visiting smaller temples and shrines nearby and historical sites (you can visit multiple sites on foot or by short train ride).
• Towards Haneda Airport: The Keikyu line takes you directly to the airport, making it convenient to stop by before or after your trip.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Cemetery etiquetteCemeteries are places of remembrance for the deceased. Loud conversations, parties, standing on gravestones, and other actions are strictly prohibited. While photography is generally permitted, please be considerate of other worshippers and refrain from taking photos in front of the graves.
• congestion: It gets especially crowded during the Gishi Festival on December 14th, as well as on holidays and during the spring tourist season. If you want to visit quietly, we recommend visiting on a weekday morning.
• Visitor Information: Many areas within the temple grounds are open to the public, but the Treasure Museum and some other facilities may have opening hours and require admission fees. Please check the official website or local information in advance.
• What to wear and what to bring：The temple has an outdoor approach and stone steps, so wear comfortable shoes. Be careful on rainy days as the ground can be slippery.
• Consideration for quietness: In areas where there are many people praying, you may smell incense smoke and incense. Please be careful if you are in a bad condition or have allergies.
• Seasonal precautionsDuring the rainy season and winter, it is best to prepare warm clothing and rain gear to protect yourself from the cold and rain.