Tucked away in the urban rhythm, Kogenji Temple is a sanctuary of stillness. Step through its ancient wooden gate, hear the chime echo softly, and walk beneath towering trees where centuries whisper. In spring, cherry blossoms drift like pink snow, turning the path into a dreamy corridor. Here, time slows down—perfect for quiet reflection, deep breaths, and rediscovering peace in the midst of the city.








Everything you need to know about Kogenji Temple
Yokohama Grand Prince Hotel is a top choice, just a 10-minute drive from Kogenji Temple. The hotel blends modern architecture with traditional Japanese gardens, offering a serene Zen-inspired stay. Rooms feature private onsen baths and some overlook tranquil karesansui rock gardens. Guests can also enjoy a tea ceremony in the hotel’s authentic tearoom, perfect for unwinding after visiting the temple. Conveniently located near Yokohama Station, it’s only a 15-minute subway ride to Kogenji Temple, making it ideal for both cultural immersion and easy access.
Book a stay at Zen Stay Yokohama, a boutique guesthouse just steps from Kogenji Temple, renowned for its one-day Zen retreats. Guests participate in morning zazen meditation, calligraphy practice, and mindful tea ceremonies led by certified Zen masters. The rooms feature traditional shoji screens and natural wood finishes, creating a calming, meditative atmosphere. Daily breakfast includes a simple, seasonal vegan menu using local ingredients, supporting mindfulness and well-being. Due to limited availability, reservations should be made at least two weeks in advance to secure your spot in this authentic Zen experience.
The most convenient route is taking the Yokohama Municipal Subway Blue Line to "Shinagawa Station," then transferring to a bus or walking about 15 minutes to Kogenji Temple. Taxis take around 20 minutes and cost ¥800–1,200. Free parking is available nearby for self-drive visitors. Alternatively, take the JR Yokosuka Line to Yokohama Station, then transfer to a local bus—total journey time about 30 minutes. Use Google Maps for real-time navigation to avoid one-way streets and ensure a smooth trip.
Must-try experiences near Kogenji Temple include the spring cherry blossom tea ceremony (late March to early April), autumn red leaf calligraphy events, and the monthly night lantern procession. The lantern event, held every Saturday evening, illuminates the temple grounds with dozens of paper lanterns, casting a dreamlike glow over stone gardens and ancient trees. Additionally, the temple offers a handmade prayer talisman workshop, where visitors craft personalized paper charms and hang them on designated trees as symbolic offerings. All activities are free, though some require advance HopeGoo—check the official website for details.
Yes! Yokohama Minato Mirai 21 District, just a 15-minute drive away, is perfect for families. It features the Yokohama Skytree Ferris Wheel, Minato Mirai Park, and the Science Museum, offering engaging activities for all ages. Kids especially enjoy the marine life interactive exhibits and children’s creativity workshops. Strolling along the Yokohama Port Promenade provides scenic views of ships and the city skyline. Family-friendly restaurants serve kid-approved options like Japanese-style hamburgers and sushi bars. A half-day itinerary—visit Kogenji Temple in the morning, then relax at Minato Mirai in the afternoon—is highly recommended.
The ideal times to visit are spring (March to April) and autumn (November to December). Spring brings blooming cherry blossoms that contrast beautifully with the temple’s ancient architecture, perfect for photography. Autumn features vibrant maple leaves and golden sunlight filtering through stone gardens, creating a deeply meditative ambiance. Special events like the Spring Festival in April and Autumn Evening Ritual in October offer unique spiritual experiences. To avoid crowds, avoid peak holidays such as Golden Week and Obon Season, ensuring a peaceful and contemplative visit.
See what other travelers say about Kogenji Temple

I absolutely loved this hotel! While the area is quiet, the location is incredibly convenient—most attractions and shopping centers are just a short walk away. The bed was super comfortable, and the lounge on the 7th floor with the coffee bar made for a perfect spot to unwind after a long day. My only regret was booking early with a non-refundable rate, as I later noticed lower prices on other platforms and even saw a price drop on the platform I used. Still, those three nights were worth it—the overall experience was excellent, and the value for money remains strong. If you're looking for a peaceful yet well-connected stay in Yokohama, this is a great choice.

Staying at Ray House was a great experience, especially for its unbeatable location near Yokohama Chinatown. It's just a short walk away, making it super convenient for exploring the area and enjoying authentic Chinese cuisine. The interior of the room was clean and well-maintained, with a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. One small note: the sofa bed on the lower level didn't come with a blanket or cover, which wasn't clearly mentioned beforehand. We ended up borrowing one from above and returned it properly. A little heads-up in advance would’ve been helpful, but overall it wasn’t an issue. I also appreciated the thoughtful touch of having eight packs of bamboo shoots left in the room—my family enjoyed six of them, which felt like a warm welcome from the hosts. All in all, this was a comfortable, affordable stay with excellent access to the city center. Definitely considering it again on my next visit to Yokohama.

Staying at Yokohama Hostel Village Hayashi-Kaikan was an absolute delight from start to finish. The room was spacious, spotlessly clean, and equipped with fast Wi-Fi—perfect for staying connected while exploring the city. I was especially impressed by the thoughtful touches: high-quality amenities, quiet surroundings that made for a peaceful night’s sleep, and a location that’s ideal for hopping on the train and getting around town with ease. What stood out most was how well the property delivered exactly what was promised—no surprises, just honest quality. It’s rare to find a place that matches its description so perfectly, but this one nailed it in every way. Without hesitation, I’d recommend this gem to anyone looking for comfort, convenience, and a true home-away-from-home vibe in Yokohama.

I absolutely loved staying at Guesthouse la Cava in Yokohama! The dedicated female-only floor was a fantastic feature—quiet, peaceful, and very safe. The owner was incredibly helpful; when I had a question, we even managed to have a video call, and thanks to the instant human translation support available through the platform, communication was smooth and stress-free. The location is perfect—just a short subway ride from downtown Yokohama, making it easy to explore the city. Clean, welcoming, and with an excellent attention to detail, this guesthouse offers incredible value for money. I’d happily come back again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Yokohama.

I stayed at Hostel Zen for four days and had a great experience overall. While the neighborhood isn’t the most upscale—there are indeed several budget hostels nearby—it’s still very safe, which is typical of Japan. What stood out most was getting an entire private room, not just a capsule like in many other hostels I’ve stayed at. That made a big difference in comfort and privacy, especially as a solo female traveler. The staff were warm and helpful throughout my stay. I explored Yokohama mostly on foot, and being close to the city center made it super convenient. Whether you’re looking to save money or just want a comfortable base with a friendly vibe, this place delivers. Highly recommend for travelers who value both location and a peaceful atmosphere.

I stayed at Wharf Inn in Yokohama and had a very positive experience overall. The location is excellent—just a short subway ride from the city center, and there are plenty of restaurants and lively street food options nearby. The hostel is clean and well-maintained, with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. While the rooms aren’t large, they’re thoughtfully designed for comfort, and the beds were surprisingly comfortable for a budget-friendly stay. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout my visit, making check-in and check-out smooth. I appreciated the attention to detail and the overall vibe—it’s perfect for travelers who want a no-frills, authentic stay without compromising on comfort. The only minor downside was some sound leakage between rooms, but it didn’t significantly affect my sleep. All in all, this place offers great value and is definitely worth considering if you're visiting Yokohama.

Chillulu Hostel exceeded my expectations in every way—spotlessly clean, with complimentary towels and toiletries that made the stay incredibly convenient. This is easily one of the top three hostels I've stayed at, and definitely among the most well-organized and welcoming I've experienced in Japan. The location in Yokohama is perfect for exploring the city, and the vibe is relaxed yet social. I’ll definitely be back.

Staying right in the heart of the bustling city yet enjoying complete peace and quiet at night was a real highlight. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from Kannai Station, with restaurants, convenience stores, and everything you need within easy reach. Despite being a budget-friendly option, the hotel feels clean, well-maintained, and surprisingly peaceful. The room was cozy and comfortable, with a good-quality bed that made for a restful sleep. I was especially impressed by how quiet it stayed even late into the night—perfect for travelers who want to enjoy city life without the noise. It’s rare to find such a great balance between convenience and tranquility. Definitely a top pick if you're visiting Yokohama.

Staying at this hotel was a fantastic experience overall. The location is incredibly convenient—just a short metro ride to central Yokohama, and everything you need, from restaurants to convenience stores, is within easy walking distance. The room was spotless, well-maintained, and the bed was super comfortable, making for a restful night's sleep. I was pleasantly surprised by how quiet and peaceful the environment was, despite being in a busy city area. The staff were friendly and helpful without being pushy, which made the stay even more enjoyable. It’s clear that attention to detail and guest comfort are top priorities here. With such great value and a welcoming atmosphere, I’d definitely come back and recommend it to anyone visiting Yokohama.

The Yokohama Mandarin Hotel is just a short walk from the station, tucked away on a quiet side street that requires climbing a small hill—no hassle at all. The neighborhood has a charming, local vibe, and the nearby Noma Lane is actually quite famous for its quaint atmosphere. I was pleasantly surprised with a complimentary room upgrade, and the space was absolutely spacious—especially the bathroom, which felt like a luxury retreat. The hotel has that classic 2000s style—simple, clean, and full of character—and honestly, I really appreciate that old-school elegance. It’s not flashy, but it feels authentic and cozy. Perfect for travelers who value comfort and charm over modern gimmicks. Would definitely stay here again.

I stayed at Skyspa Yokohama during a concert event at K-Arena Yokohama, and it was an excellent choice. The location is incredibly convenient—just step off the train at Yokohama Station, head to the East Exit, and you can walk straight into the hotel without going outside. Perfect for travelers who want to minimize hassle. Even though I was staying overnight, the hotel provided everything I needed: comfortable loungewear, towels, and well-stocked toiletries—no need to pack anything extra. Just one thing to keep in mind: if you're planning a multi-night stay, you'll need to check out by 12 PM each day, so plan accordingly. Overall, this is a fantastic option for anyone attending events in the area. I’d definitely return for another visit, especially with how close it is to all the action.

This hotel is an absolute gem—perfectly located in the heart of Yokohama yet surprisingly peaceful. Just steps from major shopping destinations like Takashimaya and Sogo, and with easy access to Shibuya and Tokyo via subway (only a 300-meter walk), it’s ideal for both business and leisure travelers. The two restaurants on the second floor are fantastic—great quality, unique vibe, and definitely worth a visit. I also appreciated how close we were to a large supermarket, making it super convenient to grab fresh seafood for a quick meal. Everything about this stay was seamless: comfort, convenience, and value. Highly recommend this spot if you want a central yet relaxing base in Yokohama.
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