Tokyo is a city where ancient tradition meets futuristic innovation. While many travelers visit the usual tourist landmarks, Tokyo also hides a wealth of lesser-known architectural wonders—each with a story to tell. From serene temples in the forest to buildings designed by world-famous architects, here are 6 hidden architectural gems in Tokyo that will captivate architecture lovers, history buffs, and curious explorers alike.
目次
- 1. Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple – A Buddhist Temple with Middle Eastern Flair
- 2. Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum – Walk Through Japan’s Architectural Timeline
- 3. Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens – Meiji-Era Luxury with East-Meets-West Style
- 4. Ginza Shusse Jizo-son – Tokyo’s Smallest Spiritual Escape
- 5. Jindaiji Temple – A Forest Temple Frozen in Time
- 6. Jiyu Gakuen Myonichikan – Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hidden Tokyo Gem
1. Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple – A Buddhist Temple with Middle Eastern Flair
Tired of seeing temple after temple that all look the same? Tsukiji Hongwanji will surprise you. With design influences from Indian, Islamic, and Romanesque architecture, this Buddhist temple looks more like a palace from the Middle East. Step inside to discover stained glass windows, a pipe organ, and a truly one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
- Why visit: Unique architectural fusion, peaceful vibe, beautiful interior
- Location: 3-15-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku
- Nearest station: Tsukiji Station (Hibiya Line), 1-min walk
- Hours: Grounds open 6:00–17:00 / Main Hall: 9:00–16:30
- Official Website｜View on Google Maps
2. Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum – Walk Through Japan’s Architectural Timeline
Imagine strolling through centuries of Japanese architecture in just one afternoon. This outdoor museum in Koganei features dozens of real buildings relocated from across Tokyo—ranging from Edo-era townhouses to retro Showa-style bathhouses. A must for architecture fans and Studio Ghibli lovers alike (Hayao Miyazaki visited for inspiration!).
- Why visit: Full streets of historic homes, Ghibli vibes, hands-on exhibits
- Location: 3-7-1 Sakura-cho, Koganei
- Access: Bus from Musashi-Koganei Station
- Hours: 9:30–17:30 (Apr–Sep) / 9:30–16:30 (Oct–Mar); closed Mondays
- Official Website｜View on Google Maps
3. Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens – Meiji-Era Luxury with East-Meets-West Style
Ever wondered what life was like for Tokyo’s wealthiest families in the 1800s? Kyu-Iwasaki-tei, the former home of Mitsubishi’s founding family, offers a glimpse. Designed by British architect Josiah Conder, the Western-style mansion blends European aesthetics with Japanese elegance, including tatami rooms and a latticed-ceiling veranda.
- Why visit: Historical atmosphere, Western-Japanese fusion, photogenic architecture
- Location: 1-3-45 Ikenohata, Taito-ku
- Nearest station: Yushima Station (Chiyoda Line), 3-min walk
- Hours: 9:00–17:00 (last entry 16:30); closed Dec 29–Jan 3
- Official Website｜View on Google Maps
4. Ginza Shusse Jizo-son – Tokyo’s Smallest Spiritual Escape
Right in the middle of the glitzy Ginza district, you’ll find a tiny hidden shrine surrounded by skyscrapers. Shusse Jizo-son is a pocket-sized temple believed to help visitors “succeed in life.” It’s the perfect spot for a quiet pause between shopping sprees or photo shoots.
- Why visit: Serene contrast to Ginza’s bustle, spiritual charm
- Location: 7-8-14 Ginza, Chuo-ku
- Nearest station: Ginza Station, 5-min walk
- Hours: Open all day (outdoor site)
- View on Google Maps
5. Jindaiji Temple – A Forest Temple Frozen in Time
Escape the city noise and visit Jindaiji, a lush, forested temple complex founded in the 8th century. With its thatched roof gate and wooden halls, it feels like a hidden mountain retreat. Bonus: the surrounding area is famous for hand-made soba noodles—perfect for a post-temple lunch.
- Why visit: Peaceful forest vibes, traditional architecture, soba culture
- Location: 5-15-1 Jindaiji Motomachi, Chofu
- Access: 15-min bus ride from Chofu Station
- Hours: 9:00–17:00 (may vary seasonally)
- Official Website｜View on Google Maps
6. Jiyu Gakuen Myonichikan – Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hidden Tokyo Gem
Frank Lloyd Wright fans, don’t miss this one. Jiyu Gakuen Myonichikan was built in 1921 by the legendary architect himself. With warm wood interiors, symmetrical design, and soft lighting, it’s a beautiful and calming space that feels worlds away from the surrounding Ikebukuro bustle.
- Why visit: Rare Wright building in Japan, timeless design
- Location: 2-31-3 Nishi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku
- Nearest station: Ikebukuro Station (Metropolitan Exit), 5-min walk
- Hours: 10:00–16:00 (reservation required); closed Mon & Tue
- Official Website｜View on Google Maps
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