Jindaiji Temple 深大寺

One of the oldest temples in the region, Jindaiji takes you back in time

Built in 733, Jindaiji Temple's well-preserved grounds and ancient architecture provide a sense of what Japan looked like during its good old days. The grounds feature lush greenery, small fish-filled streams, and ponds home to carp and turtles. For over a millennium, counteless people have traveled here to rid themselves of bad luck and pray for help finding a marriage partner. The temple is also home to the Crowned Amitabha Tathagata statue, the oldest Buddhist statue in East Japan and the only national treasure housed in a Tokyo Metropolitan area temple. Despite the temple's reputable status, its location off the beaten path means it's free of the dense crowds that flock to more central attractions like Sensoji Temple in Asakusa.

Adding to the appeal, the area surrounding Jindaiji Temple also retains an Edo period atmosphere, when the samurai class was involved in an active role. Explore these charming streets to find a selection of soba shops, whose delicious buckwheat noodles have transformed the neighborhood into a culinary destination.