Jindaiji: Tokyo’s Historic Temple and Soba Hotspot

Located about 20 minutes by bus from Chofu Station in Tokyo, Jindaiji is a peaceful town centered around the ancient Jindaiji Temple, famous for warding off evil and offering blessings. Surrounded by lush greenery, the area also features botanical gardens and is known for its delicious local soba noodles.

A Historic Temple with Deep Roots

Jindaiji Temple, established in 733 AD during the Nara period, is the second oldest temple in Tokyo, following the famous Sensoji Temple in Asakusa. The temple enshrines the Shakyamuni Buddha, the historical Buddha, whose statue was designated as a National Treasure in 2017. The temple is part of the Tendai sect of Buddhism and holds significant cultural and religious importance in Japan.

The temple’s name, Jindaiji, is derived from the water god Jinja Daio, who is said to have been worshipped here since ancient times. Legend has it that the temple’s founder, Monk Manko Shonin, prayed to Jinja Daio, who helped his parents reunite after they were separated by opposition to their marriage. This romantic story has made Jindaiji a popular temple for prayers related to love and marriage.

Jindaiji’s Famous Soba

Jindaiji is not only known for its spiritual significance but also for its soba noodles. The area around the temple has an abundance of natural spring water, which is ideal for growing the buckwheat used in soba. The use of watermills for milling the buckwheat flour also contributed to the rise of Jindaiji as a soba-producing region. Today, visitors can enjoy freshly made Jindaiji soba at many local restaurants, making it a must-try dish for anyone visiting the area.

Year-Round Events at Jindaiji

Jindaiji Temple is alive with activity throughout the year, hosting various traditional festivals and events:

  1. Jindaiji Daruma Fair (March 3-4): One of Japan’s three largest Daruma doll festivals, this event draws visitors who purchase daruma dolls as symbols of good fortune and success.
  2. Jindaiji Hozuki Festival (mid-July): This festival celebrates the vibrant hozuki (Chinese lantern plant), where visitors can buy hozuki plants and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
  3. Soba Kannon Memorial Festival (mid-October): A festival honoring the Soba Kannon, or deity of soba noodles, highlighting the area’s long-standing connection to soba.

These events bring the local community together and offer visitors a chance to experience traditional Japanese culture.

Exploring the Jindaiji Botanical Garden

Adjacent to the temple is the Jindai Botanical Garden, one of the largest botanical gardens in Tokyo. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers, offering a peaceful retreat with seasonal flowers, including roses, cherry blossoms, and plum trees. The garden’s expansive grounds are ideal for leisurely strolls, making it a great complement to your temple visit.

Visiting Jindaiji: A Tranquil Escape

Whether you’re visiting for spiritual reasons, to enjoy the natural beauty, or to sample the famous soba, Jindaiji offers something for everyone. The temple’s rich history, combined with the serene atmosphere of the surrounding town, makes it a perfect destination for a day trip from central Tokyo.

How to Get There

  • By Bus: From Chofu Station (Keio Line), take a bus to Jindaiji Temple (about 20 minutes).
  • By Train: From Shinjuku Station, take the Keio Line to Chofu Station, then transfer to a bus for Jindaiji.
  • By Car: Parking is available near the temple for those driving.

Refer details from HP