Place of worship • 3-chōme-1-2 Yanaka, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0001, Japan
Daiun-ji Temple suddenly appears as you walk through the quiet alleys of Yanaka, Taito-ku, Tokyo, stopping you in your tracks. Known as a Nichiren sect temple, this temple, continuing since the Edo period, perfectly combines history and artistic beauty, truly a jewel of Yanaka.
The most notable feature of Daiun-ji Temple is its unique main hall structure. It has two front porches—one housing the principal object of worship and the other enshrining Kasanomori Inari. This duality makes the temple seem to have two faces. The solemnity of a place of worship and the beauty of an art piece blend harmoniously.
As you step into the main hall, a breathtaking sight unfolds. The carvings of celestial maidens and phoenixes adorning the ceiling and walls captivate with their exquisite craftsmanship and brilliance. These carvings are not mere decorations but art pieces expressing the Buddhist worldview. Their beauty is mesmerizing, making one lose track of time.
Daiun-ji Temple has stone monuments dedicated to two famous figures from the Edo period—Kasamori Osen, one of Edo's three great beauties, and ukiyo-e artist Suzuki Harunobu. The nishiki-e depicting Osen created by Harunobu caused a sensation at the time. These monuments convey the moment where art and beauty intersected in Edo.
In October, Daiun-ji Temple hosts the Chrysanthemum Festival. The temple adorned with colorful chrysanthemums exhibits a different charm. With cherry blossoms in spring, greenery in summer, chrysanthemums in autumn, and tranquility in winter, Daiun-ji changes its expression each season, delighting visitors.
Enclosed by brick walls, Daiun-ji Temple might seem inconspicuous at first glance. However, passing through its gate reveals a world brimming with Edo history, culture, and traditional Japanese beauty. When you stroll through Yanaka, definitely visit this hidden gem. Unexpected discoveries and moving experiences await you.