Surrounded by tranquil woods and seasonal flowers, Jindaiji Temple in Chofu City is a historic temple founded in the Nara period . Its National Treasure Buddhist statue and stately main gate warmly welcome visitors. The approach is lined with long-established soba restaurants, making it a place where you can enjoy both worship and local food.
This article introduces easy-to-follow information on how to access Jindaiji, highlights within the temple grounds, and a guide to how much time to spend there. It is designed so that even first-time visitors or solo travelers can enjoy their visit with confidence.
Why not take a short trip out of central Tokyo to Jindaiji? A peaceful moment awaits you.
Contents
Jindaiji Access Guide for First-Time Visitors
Check the latest weather forecast before your visit: [weathernews ]
By Train
Shinjuku Station
Take the Keio Line Limited Express to “Chofu Station” (about 15 minutes)
From Chofu Station North Exit, take the Keio Bus bound for “Jindaiji” and get off at “Jindaiji” (about 15 minutes)
A short walk from the bus stop
Total travel time: about 40 minutes
Shibuya Station
Take the Keio Inokashira Line Express to “Kichijoji Station” (about 17 minutes)
From Kichijoji Station North Exit, take the Odakyu Bus bound for “Jindaiji” and get off at “Jindaiji” (about 30 minutes)
A short walk from the bus stop
Total travel time: about 1 hour
One Point Advice
Jindaiji Visitor Information: Hours & Admission
Visiting hours: 9:00–17:00 (Main Hall, Temple Office)
Closed: Open year-round
Admission: Free (special exhibitions and gardens may require a fee)
Jindaiji Temple Official Website
Jindaiji Highlights & Itinerary Guide
Jindaiji Main Hall｜Nara-Era Traditions
The Main Hall, built during the Nara period , offers a solemn space that quietly welcomes visitors. The principal image, an Amida Nyorai statue from the Heian period, conveys timeless devotion, accompanied by the scent of incense filling the hall. For travelers seeking to escape the bustle of Tokyo and feel the atmosphere of ancient Japan, this is the first spot to visit. The stone-paved approach in front adds a calm charm perfect for photography.
Time required: 20–30 min
Admission: Free
Jinja-do Hall｜Shrine for Good Fortune
Located deeper within the grounds, Jinja-do Hall is known as a place for prayers for good relationships and protection. Its deity, Jinsha Daio , has long been revered as a guardian of Kannon, with many visitors praying for good fortune and safety. The hall, surrounded by forest, provides a peaceful moment for travelers, including women visiting alone, and is a popular spot in Japanese temple culture . Seasonal changes in the surrounding trees enhance the shrine’s mystique.
Time required: 15–20 min
Admission: Free
Soba Shops & Temple Approach｜Local Flavors
The lively soba district stretching from the temple grounds to the gate town is another highlight of Jindaiji. The traditional “Jindaiji Soba ,” a popular Japanese noodle dish passed down since the Edo period , is fragrant and delicious, whether enjoyed as street food or at long-established restaurants. Souvenir shops and sweet shops line the approach, and wandering around easily fills half a day. Experiencing both the solemn atmosphere of the temple and the simple food culture is unique to Jindaiji.
Time required: 60–90 min
Cost: Around 1,000 yen per soba meal
Nearby & Next-Day Trips from Jindaiji
Jindai Botanical Gardens｜Tokyo’s Largest Garden
Located about a 10-minute walk from Jindaiji , Jindai Botanical Gardens is one of Tokyo’s leading botanical attractions. Roses and seasonal flowers bloom across its vast grounds, providing a rich natural experience. Even on rainy days, the greenhouse allows visitors to enjoy tropical plants, ensuring a comfortable visit regardless of weather. Combined with Jindaiji, it creates a half-day plan blending culture and nature.
Kichijoji｜Inokashira Park & Shopping Streets
From Jindaiji, take a bus to Kichijoji Station in about 30 minutes. The bustling shopping streets and Inokashira Park near the station are beloved by locals. The pond with boats, scenic walking paths, and clusters of art and craft shops make Kichijoji one of the most popular Japanese day-trip destinations near Tokyo. After calming your spirit at the temple, enjoying street food and shopping in this lively area provides a refreshing contrast.
Mt. Takao｜Nature & Temples Day Trip
For the following day, Mt. Takao , about 40 minutes by Keio Line from Chofu, is highly recommended. The mountain is beginner-friendly, with cable cars and chair lifts available. From the summit, you can enjoy stunning views of central Tokyo and Mt. Fuji. Within the mountain lies Yakuoin Temple, a historic religious site long connected to Jindaiji in its spiritual heritage. Just a short trip from the city, you can experience both nature and culture in one day.
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Jindaiji Travel Q&A
Are there recommended places for meals or rest?
The famous Jindaiji Soba is a must-try Japanese dish, with sweet shops and teahouses also lining the approach.
How much time should I plan for my visit?
Allow 2–3 hours, including the Main Hall, garden strolls, and a soba meal.
Where can I receive a goshuin (temple seal)?
They are available at the temple office near the Main Hall. It is best to stop by after your visit.
Is the temple accessible for children and wheelchair users?
The grounds are mostly flat and well maintained, making them accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
What are the seasonal highlights?
Cherry blossoms in spring, colorful leaves in autumn, and the Daruma Market in winter.
Jindaiji Travel Summary & Next Steps
Since its founding in the Nara period , Jindaiji has been cherished by many as a historic temple. Seasonal scenery adds to its charm, and alongside worship, visitors can enjoy the famous Jindaiji Soba , making it a peaceful and popular retreat close to central Tokyo.
Access is simple by train and bus, and a half-day is enough to explore comfortably. Cultural treasures, nature, and seasonal events make every visit worthwhile.
Next, why not extend your journey to the nearby Jindai Botanical Gardens and enjoy its vibrant flowers?
