
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

A go-to choice for anyone visiting Asakusa! I always stay in a single room, and the bed size and room space are just right—not too cramped, not too spacious. The bathroom is clean and very functional, making it easy to use. What really stands out is the check-in starting at 2:00 PM and the welcome drink available until 11:00 PM—such a thoughtful touch. During this stay, I was lucky enough to catch the 'Moon Viewing Thief' event—a fun, festive little experience that added a unique charm to my visit. It’s rare to find such a cozy hotel with such warm hospitality and special events. Highly recommend!

Located just a 10-minute walk from Asakusa Station, this hotel offers a quiet and peaceful atmosphere while still being within easy reach of the lively Asakusa shopping district. The staff at the front desk were incredibly friendly and patient—always willing to help with any questions or requests. The room is compact but well-designed, offering enough space for a comfortable stay without feeling cramped. Perfect for an overnight stop before a morning flight, it strikes a great balance between convenience and value. I’d definitely consider staying here again on my next trip to Tokyo.

The Ritz Residence Sumida exceeded my expectations! The staff were incredibly attentive—when I noticed there weren’t enough beds upon arrival, I called the front desk and they responded immediately. They quickly arranged an extra bed without any hassle. The room was spotless, spacious, and very comfortable. Location-wise, it’s super convenient for getting around Tokyo—just a short subway ride to Asakusa and Akihabara. Clean, well-organized, and great value for money. Definitely going to stay here again on my next trip to Tokyo.

Staying at Hibikiya in Asakusa was an absolutely unforgettable experience. The host was incredibly warm and welcoming—genuinely made us feel at home. I've stayed in many hotels across Tokyo, but this homestay completely redefined my expectations. For the price, you'd barely get a 20 sqm room in a hotel, often cramped with no space to unpack, but here we had around 70 sqm of open, airy space—so much more than I expected. The entire place is beautifully designed with traditional Japanese tatami flooring, clean and fresh without that typical hotel carpet smell. Everything you’d need is included: washing machine, TV, air conditioning, underfloor heating, kettle, microwave, fridge, and even a full set of kitchenware. It felt like staying in a real home, not just a room. Location-wise, it’s a bit far from the nearest subway station, but if your main goal is visiting Senso-ji Temple, it’s actually ideal—just a short walk away, surrounded by quiet streets. One thing I was worried about—Japanese buildings are usually noisy—but here, it was surprisingly peaceful, especially at night. No street sounds, no creaking floors, just pure serenity. Nearby, you’ve got Skytree and the beautiful Sumida Ward, where you can explore the legacy of Hokusai. If you want authenticity, tranquility, and a true taste of local life in Tokyo, this place delivers on every level. Highly recommend for anyone looking to step off the tourist trail and enjoy a genuine, comfortable stay.

Staying at Focus Kuramae was an absolute delight. The hostel is super easy to find—just exit from A4 of Kuramae Station and it's just a short walk away. Coming from Narita Airport? You can take the direct train without any transfers, which is a huge plus if you're traveling with heavy luggage—even if it takes a bit longer, it’s worth it for the convenience. I was really impressed by the facilities: luggage storage, a cozy lounge area on the ground floor, a fridge, and a shared kitchen where you can cook your own meals. Each room comes with a storage basket and earplugs—basic amenities are available, though you’ll need to bring or buy essentials like towels and toiletries at the front desk. One standout feature is the private bathroom and toilet for female guests—rarely crowded, so privacy isn’t an issue. Clean, safe, and well-organized, this place offers amazing value for money. I’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Tokyo.

My wife and I stayed at Guest House Wagokoro during the first few days of our Japan trip, and it quickly became one of our favorite places to stay. The rooms are compact but thoughtfully designed—everything we needed was there, and the bed was incredibly comfortable, making for a restful night’s sleep. The shared common area is cozy and welcoming, perfect for relaxing after a long day exploring. What stood out most was the peaceful neighborhood—surprisingly quiet and serene, almost like a little escape from Tokyo’s hustle and bustle. Yet, major attractions were just a 30-minute train ride away, which made getting around super easy. The staff were genuinely kind and always ready to help with recommendations or any request. It’s rare to find such warmth and attention in a guesthouse, and this place truly felt like home. A top-tier experience that exceeded our expectations.

Staying at Hotel Graphy Nezu was an absolute pleasure. The location is perfect—just a short walk from Nezu Station, making it super convenient for getting around Tokyo by train. I appreciated how close the station was to major attractions like Ginza and Asakusa, with no need for transfers. There are several convenience stores right outside the hotel, so grabbing snacks or essentials is effortless. Even better, there are some authentic local eateries nearby—my favorite was a tiny family-run ramen shop just a few steps away; the flavor was incredible and affordable. The hotel itself is clean, modern, and well-designed with a cozy atmosphere. The staff were incredibly friendly and spoke fluent English, which made check-in smooth and stress-free. From start to finish, everything felt seamless and welcoming. This place offers excellent value for money, and I’d definitely stay here again on my next trip to Tokyo. Highly recommend!

This stay at Designers Hotel Siesta was absolutely excellent! The location is perfect—just a short walk from Ueno Station and right next to the park, making it easy to explore the area. The room was spacious, spotlessly clean, and incredibly comfortable, especially the large, plush bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. Everything you’d expect from a well-thought-out hotel was here: free amenities including hand creams, body soap, shampoo, and conditioner—all high quality and plentiful. I also appreciated the complimentary luggage storage, which was super convenient after a long day of sightseeing. The common areas are stylish and welcoming, and the hotel felt secure throughout my stay. It’s clear they care about guest experience. Highly recommend this gem in Tokyo for both comfort and convenience.

Staying at &AND HOSTEL Asakusa Kappabashi felt like coming home—warm, welcoming, and incredibly thoughtfully designed. The ground floor even has shared kitchenware available for guests, which made cooking simple and fun. I loved that every room came with a power outlet—essential for travelers with multiple devices. While the rooms are compact, they’re surprisingly well-equipped: fridge, lighting, storage—all the essentials in a cozy space. Location-wise, it’s perfect—just a short walk to Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street, with plenty of cafes and convenience stores nearby. The staff are friendly, the vibe is relaxed, and the value for money is outstanding. This place exceeded my expectations in every way—I’ll definitely be back and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Tokyo.

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.
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