Shibamata Taishakuten (Daikyoji Temple)

Map

History & Origins

The temple was founded in 1629 (the 6th year of Kan'ei). The Taishakudo hall is decorated with ten elaborate relief carvings depicting stories from the Lotus Sutra, which are highly regarded as masterpieces of modern sculpture. The Daikyakuden (great guest hall) is a Tokyo-selected historic building, and the stroll garden Suikei-en is designated a Place of Scenic Beauty by Tokyo.

Highlights

The Lotus Sutra story carvings in the inner sanctuary of the Taishakudo are open to the public as the 'Carving Gallery,' allowing visitors to appreciate the world of fine woodcarving up close. Suikei-en is beautiful with the changing scenery of the seasons and can be entered by paying an admission fee. Long-established shops selling local specialties such as kusa-dango (mugwort dumplings) line the approach.

Visitor Guide

About a 3-minute walk from Shibamata Station on the Keisei Kanamachi Line. Entry to the grounds is free and no admission fee is required (the inner sanctuary Carving Gallery of the Taishakudo and the garden charge fees). Allow about 60 to 90 minutes. Enjoy a stroll that includes the food and souvenir shops along the approach.

Best Season

The shrine is especially busy on fair days (Koshin days) and at New Year. Spring, when the cherry trees along the approach bloom, is also a season full of charm.

Blessings

Annual Events

• Koshin Day (every 60 days)

  Taishakuten Dai-Ennichi (Taishakuten Grand Temple Fair Day)

  A grand temple fair is held on every Koshin Day, which comes once every 60 days, and the approach is crowded with many worshippers.

• January

  Hatsumode (New Year Visit)

  As a leading New Year first-visit spot of the downtown area, Taishakuten draws many worshippers during the first three days.

Travel Plan

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