Guarding the entrance to this traditional temple is a tall 18th-century statue built by a priest to protect women and children.
The Shinshoji Temple is a traditional Japanese shrine known for its immense bronze statue installed here in 1706. The site marks the entrance to one of Toshima’s principal commercial avenues. Enjoy the serene setting of this spiritual haven, as you consider its place in local tradition.
Study the so-called jizo statue that reaches a height of 11 feet (3.3 meters). It portrays a person sitting with crossed legs beneath a large, arched hat. Inspect the various Japanese symbols adorning the columns in front of the statue.
Note that this work of art was initially set up here by the 18th-century priest Jizobo-Shogen in the early 1700s as one of six such sculptures marking the starting points of national excursions. This statue was considered the beginning of the path along the Nakasendo Road. The sculptures were also believed to protect women and children, including unborn children.
Spot the colorful flags and floral tributes around the statue and see the central spire rising from the temple’s curved roof beyond it. Admire the elegant façade of the temple behind the statue as you climb up the white central staircase for a closer look.
The curved roof is green, with gold and brown features. See the temple at night, when the lanterns surrounding it glow. Purchase stacks of aromatic incense sticks from the site.
Walk beneath the lanterns of the adjacent Sugamo Jizodori Shopping Street and purchase souvenirs in the varied stores. Take a break here for coffee or a meal. Try black sesame ice cream, rice cakes filled with red bean paste and strong green tea.
The Shinshoji Temple is in the northeastern corner of Toshima, slightly north of central Tokyo. Take the train or metro to the Sugamo Station just a little southeast of the temple. While you’re here, check out neighboring attractions, such as Edobashi Park, the Koganji Temple, the Otsuka Golf Plaza and the Soka Gakkai Tokyo Toda Memorial Hall.
