Gokuku Ji Temple

Gokuku-ji Temple or rather Gokoku-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in the Bunkyoku ward of Tokyo. The temple with its unique architecture is one of the oldest temples of the city and a popular sightseeing destination.

The temple was built by Shogun Tokugawa Tsunayoshi for his mother Keishoin in the year 1681. The temple was, however, declared as the imperial mausoleum by the Emperor Meiji in the year 1873. One can come over here and pay one's homage to the graves of Emperor Meiji and his children. The history of the temple makes it one of the most important historical sights of the city.

The temple has beautiful buildings, which are a real treat for the eyes. The temple is basically situated near the hillside and hence is also famous for the picturesque view that it offers. The buildings are located at a higher level and thus offer a fantastic view of the city. Tourists come to this place to get a panoramic view of the entire city.

The Gokuku-ji Temple is particularly famous as the main temple, which is in charge of the Japanese Tea Ceremony held in all the other temples of the country. The temple has a beautiful portico and is a good example of ancient Japanese architecture belonging to the Edo period. The buildings, bell tower, pagodas and the gate gives one a complete idea of the Japanese architecture. The temple houses the graves of some of the famous politicians of the country like Aritomo Yamagata, Mitsuaki Tanaka and others.

During the winter season the entire temple and the surrounding area is covered with snow. This is a fantastic view, which one should not miss. The temple is surrounded by a large number of trees, like the cherry trees. The ambience and the atmosphere around and in the temple are calm and tranquil, thus offering the perfect spot for mediation.

Being a Buddhist temple, one can find the statue of the Buddha inside this temple. People come over here and burn incense sticks in the incense burners. One is not allowed to wear shoes inside this temple. Photography is not allowed inside the temple building. However, one can take photographs of the courtyard and the surrounding area.

The Gokuku-ji Temple with its peaceful and calm surrounding attracts a large number of tourists every year. People come here not only to pay their respects to the graves but also to marvel at the view offered by the temple.

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