
Tokyo/Ekōin Temple Top Hotel Picks
Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability

Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
Step into Kōkō-in, and instantly leave the city behind—quiet temples, gentle gongs echoing through ancient halls, each step echoing centuries of wisdom. This sacred space isn’t just a shrine; it’s a living story of compassion and enlightenment. Sit beneath the eaves, listen to the wind chime through the bell tower, and feel time slow down. For travelers seeking inner peace, this is more than a temple—it’s a sanctuary for the soul.





Everything you need to know about Ekōin Temple
For a serene stay near Kōshō-in Temple, consider the Tokyo Skytree Tower Marriott Hotel, just a 15-minute ride away. The hotel features modern Japanese-style rooms with panoramic views of Skytree and the city skyline. It also offers exclusive traditional tea ceremony experiences, allowing guests to immerse in Japanese Zen culture—perfectly complementing the tranquil atmosphere of Kōshō-in. With free shuttle service to the nearest subway station, access is seamless for exploring eastern Tokyo’s hidden gems.
Beyond visiting the serene gardens and statues at Kōshō-in Temple, explore a traditional washi paper workshop near Asakusa's Senso-ji. Learn ancient paper-making techniques and craft your own handmade washi paper. Stroll along the Sumida River promenade at dawn to see the Tokyo Skytree's reflection shimmering on the water, then enjoy local treats like Obaku Mochi. These experiences blend nature, heritage, and craftsmanship, offering a peaceful contrast to Tokyo’s urban pace—ideal for mindful travel.
The most convenient route is taking the Tokyo Metro Hanzōmon Line to Asakusa Station, then transferring to the Toei Mita Line to Oshiage Station, followed by a 10-minute walk to Kōshō-in. The journey takes about 30 minutes and connects seamlessly with Tokyo Skytree, allowing you to visit both sites in one trip. For convenience, use Google Maps navigation—the temple’s location is somewhat secluded. Alternatively, book a private transfer service via travel platforms, ideal for families or travelers with mobility needs, ensuring a stress-free arrival.
Yes! The Skytree Night View Plaza offers stunning contrasts between the glowing Tokyo Skytree and the quiet garden of Kōshō-in, perfect for dramatic evening shots. During spring, the Sumida River cherry blossom path bursts into pink blooms, framing ancient temple rooftops in soft light—a dreamlike scene for photographers. For candid moments, capture early-morning silhouettes of monks chanting at the temple entrance, where natural light enhances depth and mood—ideal for professional and enthusiast shooters alike.
Near Hōkō-in Temple in Tokyo, the Tokyo Okura Hotel is highly recommended. Located just a 10-minute walk from the temple, this luxury hotel blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern sophistication. Its rooms feature serene Zen-inspired interiors, offering guests a tranquil retreat rooted in Edo-period culture.
The hotel also offers exclusive tea ceremony experiences, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in authentic Japanese traditions. Conveniently located near subway lines, it provides easy access to major attractions like Asakusa and Ginza.
Hōkō-in itself is a historically significant Pure Land Buddhist temple, renowned for its masterfully designed garden that employs "borrowed scenery" techniques, seamlessly integrating natural landscapes into its spiritual ambiance. For an unforgettable visit, plan your trip early in the morning to enjoy peaceful views without crowds and fully appreciate the temple's meditative atmosphere.
The most convenient route from Tokyo Station to Hōkō-in Temple is via the Ginza Line to Asakusa Station, then transfer to the Toei Shinjuku Line and ride to Nishi-Ohkubo Station, followed by a 15-minute walk. The journey takes about 35 minutes and passes through key shopping districts, perfect for quick stops or street food sampling.
For comfort and speed, especially with luggage or traveling in groups, taking a taxi is ideal—approximately 20 minutes and costing ¥1,800–¥2,500. The temple area features clear signage and is easily navigable using smartphone maps.
Hōkō-in is located in the historic Ohsaki district, known for its academic heritage and quiet streets surrounding Waseda University. Along the way, you may glimpse students in uniforms walking through old alleys, adding cultural charm to your journey. Consider combining your visit with a stop at Koishikawa Korakuen Garden nearby for a rich blend of history, architecture, and nature.
Near Hōkō-in Temple, visitors can participate in several distinctive traditional Japanese cultural experiences. One highlight is the daily morning bell ritual, open to the public, where the resonant sound of the temple bell creates a profound sense of peace and mindfulness.
The annual Jōdo Sect Flower Festival in spring is another must-attend event, showcasing exquisite ikebana arrangements and sacred floral offerings, reflecting reverence for nature and spirituality.
Just steps away, a local ceramics workshop offers hands-on sessions to craft Zen-inspired tea bowls and incense burners—each piece uniquely yours to take home. For deeper insight, guided tours led by experienced monks explore the temple’s founding history and religious significance, delivered with wisdom and authenticity.
Hōkō-in’s garden embodies the shakkei (borrowed scenery) principle, thoughtfully incorporating distant hills and trees into its design. Ideal for photography and meditation, visiting during early morning or golden hour reveals stunning light effects and serene atmospheres—perfect for creating lasting memories.
Near Hōkō-in Temple, the hidden gem Tsuboi-an café stands out with its garden terrace nestled within a preserved Edo-era residence. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of a meticulously maintained karesansui dry landscape garden while sipping handcrafted matcha lattes, evoking the tranquility of a traditional scholar’s study.
The menu blends Wagashi sweets with modern light fare—try their matcha cheesecake or fern-flour sandwich—made with locally sourced organic ingredients. Visiting in the late afternoon is highly recommended; as sunlight filters through stone arrangements and moss-covered rocks, the scene transforms into a living ukiyo-e painting.
The café hosts regular tea ceremony workshops and haiku nights, inviting guests to engage deeply with Japanese aesthetics of wabi-sabi and ma. Due to limited seating, reservations are strongly advised to secure a private garden view.
See what other travelers say about Ekōin Temple

This hotel exceeded all my expectations! Right next to the subway station, getting around Tokyo was incredibly convenient—no need to worry about transportation at all. I stayed in a spacious executive suite with a generous late check-out, which was perfect for our busy travel schedule. The mini-bar was impressive, especially having Yamazaki 12-year-old whisky as part of the selection—a real surprise and a highlight of the stay. The facilities were brand new, spotlessly clean, and every detail felt thoughtfully designed. I loved that they provided disposable towels, plus comfy slippers and even hair ties—attention to detail really stood out. The staff were friendly, professional, and always ready to help. From arrival to departure, the experience was seamless and enjoyable. This is definitely a top-tier choice for travelers visiting Tokyo. I’ll be coming back without hesitation.

The hotel is spotless and incredibly clean—really gave me peace of mind from the moment I arrived. The lobby offers complimentary toiletries, robes, coffee, and tea bags, which is such a thoughtful touch for travelers looking for convenience. Right across the street is a Family Mart, with Lawson, 7-Eleven, and a pharmacy just a short walk away—perfect for grabbing essentials or last-minute needs. The neighborhood is quiet and peaceful, with minimal foot traffic, making it ideal for a restful stay. One thing to note: many restaurants nearby close on weekends, so plan meals accordingly or consider ordering in. Overall, the location is super convenient, the amenities are solid, and the value is excellent. I’d definitely come back if I’m ever in Tokyo again.

Staying at Hotel Villa Fontaine Tokyo-Hatchobori was an absolute delight. Located just a short walk from Hatchobori Station, the hotel offers unbeatable convenience for exploring Tokyo—whether it's heading to Ginza, Shinjuku, or even Shibuya, everything is within easy reach. The neighborhood itself is vibrant and full of options: convenience stores, pharmacies, restaurants, and cozy cafes are all right on the doorstep. The room was spacious, spotlessly clean, and very comfortable—perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. I appreciated the complimentary toothbrush and facial cleanser, which made my stay even more hassle-free. The staff were friendly, attentive, and always ready to help. One standout feature? A water dispenser in the lobby—great for staying hydrated—and a luggage weighing scale! That little touch really helped me avoid overweight baggage fees. Overall, this hotel delivers excellent value with top-notch service and thoughtful amenities. I’ll definitely be back next time I visit Tokyo.

Staying at Hotel Villa Fontaine Tokyo-Ueno Okachimachi was a great experience overall. The location is incredibly convenient—just a short walk to major attractions like Asakusa and Akihabara, and well-connected by subway. While the rooms are small, typical for Tokyo, they were spotless, comfortable, and well-maintained. The staff were friendly and attentive, making the stay feel welcoming. Breakfast options were limited but satisfying—nothing fancy, but tasty and filling. One thing worth mentioning: service staff started clearing tables at 9:30 AM, which felt rushed, especially for guests who arrived later or preferred a more relaxed breakfast. Given Japan’s culture of efficiency, this might be common, but extending the breakfast period to 10:00 AM would greatly improve guest comfort. All in all, this hotel offers excellent value, great cleanliness, and a solid location—highly recommend for travelers seeking a reliable, hassle-free stay in Tokyo.

This hotel absolutely blew us away with their exceptional service. We stayed for four days and three nights, and from the moment we arrived, the team went above and beyond. On check-in, we asked about using Yamato Transport to send our luggage to the airport early—turns out they have this service right at the lobby, which is incredibly convenient. The staff told us we could do it one day in advance, but it actually required two days. We only found out the night before our departure, and had already paid. When we returned from DisneySea, we discovered our bags were still at the front desk. Right then, Manager Mr. Kei Tada personally approached us as soon as we stepped into the lobby—he even knelt down beside me to apologize sincerely for the mistake. He refunded our fees on the spot and arranged for all three of our large suitcases to be delivered to the airport the next morning at 5:30 a.m., completely free of charge (our flight was at 10:20 a.m.). We arrived at the airport at 7:25 a.m., and he was already waiting at the counter for over an hour. We were deeply touched by such dedication and care. Japanese hospitality truly lives up to its reputation—attentive, responsible, and heartfelt. The room itself was clean, cozy, and well-maintained, though not spacious—perfect for two travelers with a packed itinerary. We stayed here during our final three days in Japan before heading home, and had booked tickets to Universal Studios, Disneyland, and DisneySea. Our luggage was sent from Osaka and arrived at the hotel literally at the same time as we did—impressive coordination. The hotel’s location is ideal: just a 4-minute walk from TCAT (Tokyo City Air Terminal), making airport transfers super easy. There’s also a train station nearby, along the same route to TCAT, and a 7-Eleven right next door—very convenient for late-night snacks or essentials. We took the train directly to Universal Studios, but Disneyland and DisneySea required a transfer and a 19–20 minute walk. The morning walk was refreshing, but the return journey after a full day at the parks? Let’s just say it’s part of the charm of traveling in Japan—exhausting, yes, but totally worth it.

I absolutely love the neighborhood—quiet, scenic, and just a short walk from the subway, making it super convenient for exploring Tokyo. Though the hotel is 40 years old, the main building was well-maintained during my stay. The room had clearly been renovated recently—clean, modern, and comfortable. The staff were incredibly friendly and spoke English fluently, which made everything smooth and welcoming. It’s clear this place takes pride in its service and upkeep. I’d definitely come back again—it’s a standout choice in Tokyo.

Staying at the b asakusa was an absolute game-changer for our Tokyo trip. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk to Senso-ji Temple, perfect for early morning visits without rushing. Right across the street, you'll find convenience stores like Seven-Eleven and FamilyMart, pharmacies, Don Quijote, and even Uniqlo—all within easy reach. With multiple subway stations nearby, getting around Tokyo is super convenient. But what really stood out? The hotel offers direct bus services to both Narita and Haneda Airports, which made our travel with luggage so much easier. We even walked to the nearest subway station to catch the airport express, saving time and hassle. This place combines comfort, accessibility, and practicality in a way that’s hard to beat—highly recommend for travelers who value seamless transit.

Staying at hotel MONday Akihabara Asakusabashi was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The room was larger than expected, with smart space planning—especially the bathroom, which felt spacious and well-designed without feeling cramped. Cleanliness was excellent throughout our stay; we never had any issues with pests or hygiene, which gave us peace of mind. As a three-person room, there’s limited space to unpack fully—just enough for one 24-inch suitcase and a small carry-on—but it’s manageable. What really stood out was the front desk staff: incredibly friendly and helpful. We arrived early and they happily stored our luggage until check-in time in the afternoon—a thoughtful touch. Location-wise, getting to Asakusa Temple is super convenient—just a short walk from the nearest subway station. The only minor downside is that the station entrance has no elevator, just stairs, but it’s still very accessible. This was our first hotel in Japan with my parents, and the positive impression they left with us makes this place truly special. Great value, great vibe, and definitely a repeat visit on the list.

Located just steps away from the subway station, this hotel offers unbeatable convenience—especially for travelers with lots of luggage. While it's not in a bustling area, the quiet neighborhood makes it a peaceful retreat after a long day exploring Tokyo. The room is compact but perfectly sized for solo travelers, and everything inside was clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully equipped. What stands out most is how close it is to public transit—no need to walk far, which is a huge plus when you're tired or carrying heavy bags. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout our stay, adding a warm touch to the experience. With excellent value for money and top-notch location, I’d definitely recommend this place to anyone visiting Tokyo on a budget.

If you're looking to truly experience everyday life in Tokyo, this place is an absolute gem. The apartment is incredibly well-equipped with everything you need—stove, microwave, washing machine, and more—making it feel like a real home away from home. Just a 6-minute walk to the nearest subway station means getting around the city is effortless; grab a Tokyo Subway Ticket and you’re all set for exploring. The location is quiet yet convenient, perfectly balancing comfort and accessibility. It’s not just a stay—it’s a genuine slice of local Tokyo living. Highly recommended for travelers who want authenticity without compromise.

The staff at the front desk were incredibly friendly and welcoming from the moment we arrived. The room was spotless, comfortable, and well-maintained—perfect for a relaxing stay. I was especially impressed by the complimentary breakfast: fresh, delicious, and thoughtfully prepared with a good variety of options. It made our morning so much better! The hotel’s location is unbeatable—it's just a short walk from Ueno Station, making it super easy to get around Tokyo. Right outside, you’ve got everything you could want: great local restaurants, lively bars, and even a full building dedicated to UNIQLO and GU—perfect for picking up some casual wear or gifts. Everything’s within walking distance, which is such a bonus. This place truly offers excellent value and comfort. I’d definitely stay here again the next time I visit Tokyo.

Staying at MONday Apart Premium Asakusa was a delightful experience from start to finish. The room is surprisingly spacious—more than enough for a family of three—and having a private balcony made the stay even more special. I loved sipping morning coffee while enjoying the quiet view of the neighborhood. Everything you need for self-catering is provided, so cooking meals at home was easy and cost-effective. Cleanliness is top-notch; no corner was overlooked. The only minor downside? It’s a short walk from the nearest subway station, but honestly, that just added charm. Walking around the local streets felt like exploring a real Tokyo residential area—small shops, cozy cafes, and authentic vibes everywhere. It’s not just a hotel; it’s a genuine slice of city life. Perfect for travelers who want comfort, convenience, and a bit of adventure all in one.
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