Ikegami Honmonji Temple, a prominent temple of the Nichiren sect in Tokyo, is conveniently located near Haneda Airport. Experience the beauty of the temple as you stroll through the impressive five-story pagoda and get enchanted by the charming tunnel of cherry blossoms in spring.
Welcome to my blog! Today, I am glad to share with you one of the places that I have had the pleasure of visiting multiple times and truly enjoy.
Enjoy the beautiful view of the blossoms and the temple from the observation deck, which is seamlessly connected to the pagoda. For the best timing, make sure to stay updated on the cherry blossom status by checking their YouTube live camera before your visit. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience.
Tourist Attractions and Activities
Five-Story Pagoda Amidst Full Bloom Cherry Blossoms
Located near Haneda Airport, Tokyo’s main gateway, Ikegami Honmonji Temple stands as the central temple for the Nichiren sect, one of Japan’s prominent Buddhist denominations.
As you step into the temple grounds, be prepared to be amazed by the majestic presence of a five-story pagoda. When spring arrives, the entire temple precinct undergoes a captivating transformation. Delicate pink cherry blossoms blanket the area, creating a breathtaking tunnel of blossoms that entices you to explore further.
Perched on a hill, the temple offers unobstructed views that truly capture the heart. As the sun begins to set, it bathes the sky in deep red hues, casting its radiant light upon the blossoming cherry trees. The soft pink glow envelops the surroundings, intensifying the vibrant colors of the fully bloomed blossoms, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that will leave you in awe.
Observation Deck
The Ikegami Kaikan building, a public facility, features a rooftop observation deck located next to the pagoda. The observation deck was carefully designed to align with the temple’s elevated position.
What makes it even more remarkable is that the observation deck is open to the public free of charge, allowing everyone the opportunity to capture Stunning photos of the vibrant cherry blossoms and the graceful five-story pagoda in a single frame.
If you ever have the chance to visit Ikegami Honmonji Temple, I recommend ascending to the observation deck just before sunset. From there, you can fully appreciate the panoramic view of the temple grounds. Please be aware that the observation deck might be closed during windy conditions.
Live Camera Stream on YouTube
Please note that the cherry blossom viewing season can vary from year to year, making it challenging to time your visit perfectly.
However, at Ikegami Honmonji Temple, you have the helpful option of checking the current cherry blossom status in advance with their YouTube live camera. The camera continuously provides a view of the temple grounds from the area near the second floor of the Niomon gate, operating 24 hours a day.
Just be aware that there may be footsteps and voices of people passing by, so it’s recommended to adjust the volume accordingly while enjoying the stream.
Culture, History, and Traditions
Ikegami Honmonji Temple stands on the exact location where the esteemed founder of the Nichiren sect, one of the prominent Buddhist denominations, took his last breath 1,282 years ago.
Throughout the centuries, the temple has witnessed numerous reconstructions, shaped by fires and various events, resulting in its present form and appearance.
Dining Guide
Explore the “Hanamine” souvenir shop located within the temple grounds, where you’ll discover a wonderful selection of Buddhist-themed items tailored for devout visitors. Additionally, the shop offers an exclusive range of delectable delicacies and preserves unique to this sacred sanctuary. I recommend treating yourself to these delightful offerings.
Their ice cream, skillfully crafted from beans or rice flour, comes in a variety of flavors, including matcha, red bean, strawberry, and black sesame, tempting your taste buds.
One exceptional culinary treasure is the “Yama-no-Okashi,” a traditional Japanese confection filled with red bean paste. Originally reserved as a warm gesture for temple guests, it is now available to the wider public.
Another delightful delicacy is their cherry-infused jam, meticulously prepared with honey, cherry juice, and infused with the essence of cherry blossoms. It’s a naturally sweet preserve, free from any artificial additives or sweeteners.
Accommodation
Ota Ward, the neighborhood that houses Ikegami Honmonji Temple, provides easy access to Haneda Airport. This means you’ll find plenty of affordable business hotels where you can stay for less than 10,000 yen.
Thanks to its excellent transportation connections to major cities like Tokyo, Yokohama, and Kawasaki in the Tokyo metropolitan area, you can effortlessly find your ideal business hotel or even luxurious accommodations with the help of the internet.
However, if you’re specifically looking for a traditional Japanese inn, it may be a bit more challenging since they are more commonly found in other regions of Japan.
Transportation
There are multiple transportation options, such as trains and buses, that will take you to Ikegami Honmonji Temple.
By train
If you prefer to travel by train, there are two routes you can take to reach Ikegami Honmonji Temple.
The first option is to ride the Toei Subway Asakusa Line and disembark at Nishimagome Station, which serves as the terminal station for the Asakusa Line.
From the south exit of Nishimagome Station, it’s approximately an 18-minute walk to the rear entrance of Ikegami Honmonji Temple. Please keep in mind that this route includes some uphill and downhill sections, so it may take slightly longer to reach your destination.
Another alternative is to utilize the Tokyu Ikegami Line . The Ikegami Line connects Gotanda Station and Kamata Station on the JR East lines, providing convenient transfer options at Gotanda Station, a major station on the Yamanote Line.
From Ikegami Station, it takes about 16 minutes to reach the temple, and the route primarily consists of flat terrain. However, once you pass through the main gate of Ikegami Honmonji Temple, you will encounter a steep staircase.
But don’t worry! If you’re not confident about your physical stamina, you can take a detour by exiting through the main gate and immediately turning left. Just two blocks away, you’ll find a four-story building with an elevator. Taking the elevator to the rooftop will lead you directly to the temple grounds.
By bus
You can conveniently utilize the nearby bus stops to reach Ikegami Honmonji Temple. It’s a quick 1-minute journey (220 yen) from Tokyu Ikegami Station or Nishimagome Station.
If you’re departing from Kamata Station, the travel time is approximately 11 minutes (220 yen), while from Omori Station, it’s about a 12-minute ride (220 yen).
However, please keep in mind that there are multiple bus companies operating in the area, and the bus stops may vary depending on the specific route. It’s advisable to check the details in advance if you plan on taking the bus.
Budget and Transportation Tips
The bustling capital city of Tokyo is renowned for its extensive underground railway network, which crisscrosses the metropolis, offering seamless transportation to numerous destinations.
The subway system in Tokyo is operated by two different companies, and they provide a convenient option called the “Tokyo Subway Ticket” .
This ticket grants unlimited access to all 13 subway lines and is available for three durations: 24 hours, 48 hours, or 72 hours. If you’re planning to explore Tokyo for a few days, I recommend purchasing this ticket for a stress-free and unrestricted travel experience throughout the city.
Weather Guide
From late March to early April, Tokyo experiences a delightful and comfortable season. However, it’s worth noting that mornings and evenings can still be chilly, so it’s wise to dress in layers and be prepared for fluctuating temperatures.
