Featured Hotels Near Shobodai-ji Temple

The Yokohama Grand Hotel is a top choice, located just a 15-minute walk from Shōhō-ji Temple. This hotel blends modern Japanese architecture with traditional elements, offering rooms featuring tatami mats and private garden views. Guests can enjoy authentic tea ceremony workshops and Zen meditation sessions, enhancing their spiritual connection to the temple's atmosphere.

Transportation is convenient: take the Yokohama Subway to "Nishi-Kanagawa Station" (10 minutes), then transfer to a bus or walk. Nearby attractions include the Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of History and Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, ideal for a full-day cultural itinerary.

Take the Yokohama Subway to "Nishi-Kanagawa Station," then walk about 15 minutes or transfer to the Yokohama City Bus Line 70 to "Shōhō-ji-mae" stop. The journey takes around 25 minutes and avoids heavy traffic, ideal for tourists. For drivers, the temple offers free parking, though spaces fill up quickly on weekends—arrive early. Alternatively, rent an electric bicycle nearby to ride along the scenic harbor trail, enjoying panoramic views of the bay and city skyline while embracing a relaxed, eco-friendly pace.

Beyond temple worship, participate in the daily morning bell ceremony at 6:30 AM, experiencing the solemnity of Buddhist rituals firsthand. The temple hosts a handmade washi umbrella workshop, where visitors craft traditional Japanese paper umbrellas as souvenirs. During spring, the annual Cherry Blossom Lantern Festival transforms the garden into a dreamlike scene, lit by thousands of glowing lanterns reflecting on the pond. For deeper immersion, book a guided zazen meditation session led by senior monks, including calligraphy practice and mindfulness exercises to restore inner peace.

Just 2 km away, Yokohama Minato Mirai 21 features expansive family parks and an indoor children’s discovery center perfect for all ages. Attractions include interactive science exhibits, mini train rides, and water play pools, allowing parents to relax while kids explore. Nearby, Yokohama Hakkei Aquarium and Yokohama Municipal Zoo are easily accessible for a full-day outing. For nature lovers, rent an electric bike to ride along the Yokohama Harbor Greenway, passing by the Red Brick Warehouses and Yamate Historic District, blending urban charm with serene natural scenery.