Peaceful tranquility at one of Tokyo’s oldest temples

Even after five years, Tokyo still manages to surprise me ~ providing all sorts of new places to discover and enjoy. Last weekend Miss IKIMASHO and I took a trip out to Jindaiji Temple and its neighbouring Botanical Gardens in Chofu, a place we had never been to before. The second oldest temple in the metropolis, Jindaiji features quaint cobbled streets, leafy riverbanks and hushed surroundings. Indeed, it feels more like a small township in Kyoto rather than downtown Tokyo. Jindaiji is especially known for its cute soba noodle shops that are dotted along on the shaded strip outside the main temple gate. (Alas, the restaurants were shutting up shop when we visited  – close to 5pm – and so I will have to wait until next time to get my Jindaiji noodle fix.) I was blown away by how beautiful this area was, and so if you live in the region and haven’t been here before – or are planning a trip to Japan – definitely add this place to your Tokyo itinerary.

IKIMASHO!

To get to Jindaiji take a bus from Stand 6 from outside Don Quijote at the South Exit of Kichijoji Station. Bus ride takes about 30 minutes, get off at Jindaiji Iriguchi (深大寺入口).

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