Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
Tōkei-ji Temple stands quietly amidst the city’s rhythm, where every stone and tree holds a whisper of history. Walk across the ancient stone bridge, breathe in the scent of incense, and feel the centuries settle around you. The serene Buddha statues, the autumn maple courtyard, and the gentle stillness invite you to pause. This isn’t a tourist trap—it’s a sanctuary for the soul. Sit on the ground, sip some tea, and let the world slow down just for you.
Everything you need to know about Sosei-ji Temple
Stay at Hyatt Regency Tokyo Shinjuku, just a 15-minute walk from Sojō-ji Temple, offering a perfect blend of modern comfort and Japanese aesthetics. The rooms feature traditional tatami mats and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the skyline, including the iconic Tokyo Skytree. Complimentary shuttle service connects to major subway lines, making it easy to explore nearby attractions like Asakusa Temple and Ueno Park. Enjoy a serene morning with a refined kaiseki breakfast in the hotel’s garden-inspired dining space, where urban energy meets tranquil Zen ambiance.
Take the Ginza Line to "Shinjuku-Sanchome Station", transfer to the Toei Oedo Line and ride to "Kagurazaka Station", then walk 10 minutes to Sojō-ji Temple. The journey takes about 25 minutes and costs only ¥480. This route avoids the crowded Yamanote Line and passes through vibrant areas like Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and Kagurazaka Cultural District, offering a rich glimpse into Tokyo’s layered culture. While taxis take around 15 minutes, they’re more expensive and prone to congestion on weekends. For travelers valuing both efficiency and authentic local experience, subway + walking is the optimal choice, balancing cost, time, and immersion.
Near Sojō-ji Temple, guests can participate in daily morning zazen meditation sessions led by experienced monks, wearing simple robes to practice mindful breathing and seated stillness. The temple also hosts tea ceremony workshops using matcha grown within the temple grounds, teaching the philosophy of "ichigo ichie" (treasuring each moment). A highlight is the annual Cherry Blossom Lantern Festival in spring, where hundreds of paper lanterns illuminate ancient trees and stone gardens under the night sky, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. These immersive activities offer deep engagement with Japanese aesthetics and spiritual traditions, making them ideal for travelers seeking inner peace and authentic cultural connection.
Recommended: Marriott Tokyo Station – though slightly farther (20 min by train), it features excellent family amenities including a kids’ playroom, family suites, and dedicated concierge services. Free shuttles connect to nearby attractions, and its proximity to Otemon Plaza and Ginza shopping district makes it perfect for family outings. The hotel also offers direct transfers to Tokyo Disney Resort, simplifying multi-day itineraries. Rooms include soundproof walls and complimentary cribs, ensuring comfort for both children and elders. With high safety standards, diverse facilities, and seamless access to public transit, this hotel stands out as an ideal base for families exploring Tokyo.
Sojō-ji Temple showcases a fusion of Heian-period wooden joinery and Edo-era Zen aesthetics. Its main hall features a double-roof design with eaves that curve upward like soaring birds, creating a dynamic sense of movement. The temple’s rock garden and dry landscape (kare-sansui) is particularly striking—white gravel raked into wave-like patterns, paired with carefully arranged stones symbolizing mountains and rivers, embodying the concept of "creation from emptiness." The entrance boasts a vermilion torii gate and a bronze bell; when the wind blows, its resonant chime carries prayers into the air. A thousand-year-old camphor tree grows intertwined with stone foundations, a living testament to nature and human spirit coexisting. Every element reflects profound Buddhist philosophy and traditional Japanese aesthetics.
See what other travelers say about Sosei-ji Temple
The room is compact but impeccably clean and well-maintained—exactly what you’d expect from a great value hotel in Tokyo. What really stood out was the complimentary drinks in the evening, including beer and soft drinks, which added a nice touch to our stay. The staff at the front desk were incredibly friendly and helpful, making check-out a breeze with no delays. Located just a 7-10 minute walk from Ikebukuro Station’s north exit, the hotel is perfectly positioned for easy access to public transport. Plus, there’s a FamilyMart right at the corner—super convenient for late-night snacks or essentials. With its excellent location, efficient service, and thoughtful little extras, this place delivers more than expected. I’d absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Tokyo.
Staying at Super Hotel Premier Akasaka was an absolute highlight of my Tokyo trip. The room size is standard Japanese, but clean and functional—exactly what you'd expect from a well-run city hotel. The cleanliness is impressive, and I appreciated the attention to detail. What really stood out was the front desk staff—they all speak fluent English, making check-in and any inquiries super smooth. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable: just a 5-minute walk to both Akasaka-mitsuke and Akasaka Stations, with access to four subway lines. From here, you can easily explore major spots—10 minutes to the National Diet Building, 10 minutes to the Imperial Palace, 20 minutes to Roppongi, 30 minutes to Ginza, 40 minutes to Omotesando, 50 minutes to Shibuya, and about an hour to Shinjuku. Most destinations are just 2–5 stops away by train, which is perfect for city walking. Right below the hotel is a 7-Eleven, and there’s a great lineup of local eateries—mostly frequented by Tokyo office workers, so it feels authentic and down-to-earth. If you're looking for convenience, good value, and a central spot that puts you right in the heart of Tokyo's energy, this hotel is a must-try. Highly recommended!
Stumbled upon this hidden gem in the heart of Ikebukuro’s bustling district—what a refreshing surprise! The natural hot spring water is incredibly smooth and soothing, leaving my skin feeling soft and rejuvenated after just one soak. It truly washed away all the travel fatigue. The room was a classic Japanese-style ryokan space—clean, quiet, and serene, perfect for unwinding. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable: a short walk to the subway station and even closer to Sun Plaza for shopping and dining. The front desk staff spoke excellent English and even handed me a handy map of local eateries—super helpful! From comfort to convenience, every detail was thoughtfully done. I’d absolutely stay here again on my next trip to Tokyo. A flawless experience—10/10 without hesitation!
Just a 5-10 minute walk from JR Ikebukuro Station—super convenient location! For the price, getting breakfast and access to an on-site hot spring makes this a total steal. The breakfast spread is generous and varied—think curry rice, grilled salmon, scrambled eggs, multiple types of toast, yogurt, milk, and coffee. I changed up my breakfast choices every day and never got bored. The hot spring was relaxing and warm, perfect for unwinding after a long day. Rooms and bath areas were spotlessly clean throughout my three-night stay. I’d definitely come back again if I’m in Tokyo—highly recommend!
Staying at Super Hotel Shinjuku Kabukicho was an absolute delight. Located right in the heart of Tokyo, it's incredibly convenient for exploring everything the city has to offer—just a short walk from shopping districts, restaurants, and nightlife. The staff were friendly and helpful, clearly explaining all room features with great attention to detail. While the rooms are compact, they’re well-equipped and surprisingly comfortable, making for a restful night’s sleep. What really stands out is the gender-separated onsen—perfect after a long day of sightseeing or shopping. Soaking in the hot spring helped ease tired muscles and made falling asleep effortless. Plus, breakfast is complimentary and offers a nice variety of options. It’s a small hotel, but every need is covered. For a great location, excellent service, and a relaxing vibe, this place is unbeatable. I’d definitely stay here again.
Staying at Super Hotel Tokyo Otsuka was an absolute delight. The hotel is incredibly close to Otsuka Station—just a short walk away—and surrounded by two large supermarkets and a budget-friendly department store, making daily errands super convenient. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby, so you never run out of options for a meal or a quick coffee. Despite being in a bustling area, the hotel manages to feel peaceful and quiet—an ideal balance between city life and relaxation. Breakfast is served free every morning from 6:30 to 8:30, and it’s a real highlight. The menu offers a fantastic mix of Japanese and Western dishes: miso soup, corn soup, borscht, creamy mushroom soup, natto, gyudon, tamagoyaki, grilled fish, tofu, fresh vegetables, and even chazuke (tea rice). Drinks include coffee, tea, and various beverages—all delicious and thoughtfully provided. In the evening, there’s a complimentary drink bar, perfect for winding down after a long day. Check-in is simple with a code from the front desk, and the room comes fully equipped with a wardrobe, kettle, mini-fridge, multi-purpose power adapter, and non-disposable slippers. The bed, bedding, and pillows are clean, comfortable, and the front desk even offers different pillow types to suit your preference. I have to give a special mention to the blackout curtains—they look thin and simple, but they block out all light completely, allowing for deep, uninterrupted sleep every night. We booked the Super Room, which features a bunk bed setup. The top bunk is slightly narrow, so it might feel tight for taller guests, but the lower bunk comfortably fits two adults. That said, the room space is limited, so traveling with three people might be a bit tight, and unpacking luggage could get tricky. Daily housekeeping service is included, and the front desk provides a wide range of complimentary toiletries—you can pick what you need, which feels very considerate. Just steps from the station, there’s a large underground supermarket, plus many small convenience stores, bakeries, and general shops perfect for strolling through. The small plaza areas in front and behind the station are great spots to relax—every day I’d grab a cold beer from a nearby convenience store, sit on a bench, and enjoy the quiet moment while watching the streetcar glide past along the Koenji River. A one-stop JR ride gets you straight to Ikebukuro, ideal for shopping and exploring. Nearby, you’ll find the Otsuka Memorial Bathhouse, and a bit further, the more relaxing Nogata Onsen—spending just 550 yen for a soak is honestly one of my daily highlights. Overall, this hotel delivers excellent value, comfort, and convenience. Highly recommend it for travelers who want a peaceful yet well-connected stay in Tokyo.
Staying at Oakwood Apartments Minami Azabu Tokyo was a perfect choice for families with kids. The spacious units offered plenty of room for both adults and children, with separate bedrooms and a fully equipped kitchen—ideal for meal prep and keeping little ones comfortable. Located just steps from the subway station, we easily accessed major attractions like Asakusa and Ginza without hassle. The apartment even provided a crib upon request, which made life much easier with our toddler. Clean, safe, and well-located, this property delivers excellent value for money. I’d definitely book here again when visiting Tokyo with my family.
Staying at this place was a truly peaceful experience. The atmosphere is calm and serene, perfect for unwinding after a busy day. The room was immaculately clean, with a soothing ambiance that made it easy to relax. Every detail felt thoughtfully designed—soft lighting, comfortable bedding, and quiet surroundings that helped me sleep well. Despite being in a quiet neighborhood, I found it easy to get around Tokyo via the nearby subway. It’s an ideal spot for travelers who value tranquility without sacrificing convenience. I’ll definitely be back and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a restful, high-quality stay.
Staying at The Westin Tokyo was an absolutely fantastic experience. The room was spacious and immaculately clean, with plush bedding that made for a restful night's sleep. The staff went above and beyond—when we requested connecting rooms for our family, they handled it seamlessly, and even provided extra bottled water and children’s pillows without hesitation. The location is unbeatable: the hotel connects directly to underground walkways leading to Ebisu Garden Place and the subway station. From here, getting to Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ginza, or simply strolling around the neighborhood is incredibly easy. Whether you're exploring the city or just relaxing nearby, everything feels within reach. It's clear this hotel values guest comfort and convenience. I’ll definitely be choosing The Westin Tokyo again on my next trip to Tokyo.
Staying at Hotel Wing International Ikebukuro was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of Ikebukuro, with easy access to subway lines and countless restaurants, shops, and attractions just steps away. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, making check-in and any inquiries a breeze. I’ll admit, Japanese rooms are typically small, but this one worked perfectly for me—plenty of space to unpack two 28-inch suitcases, and since I spent most of my time exploring Tokyo, I didn’t need much time inside the room anyway. The hotel itself felt clean, well-maintained, and had a subtle, pleasant scent that added to the overall comfort. It’s a great balance of convenience, cleanliness, and value. If I ever return to Tokyo, I’d definitely consider staying here again—highly recommend it for travelers who want a reliable, central base in the city.
The Centurion Classic Akasaka delivered an exceptional stay from start to finish. The location is perfect—just a short walk from major attractions and well-connected by subway, making exploration effortless. I was especially grateful for the in-room washing machine, which made packing light a breeze. No need to worry about laundry while traveling—such a thoughtful touch. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, with attentive staff who went the extra mile. It’s rare to find such a great balance of convenience, comfort, and value. I’d absolutely book again and highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Tokyo.
Staying at Hotel Route-Inn Tokyo Ikebukuro was a fantastic experience! The room was clean, spacious, and incredibly comfortable—especially the bed, which made for a restful night’s sleep. The breakfast spread was impressive: hot dishes, fresh pastries, local delicacies, and even freshly squeezed juice. Everything tasted great and offered excellent variety. Location-wise, it’s perfect—just a short walk from Ikebukuro Station, with easy access to trains, shopping malls, and countless dining options. I’d definitely stay here again on my next trip to Tokyo. Highly recommend for travelers looking for comfort, convenience, and value.
Explore more amazing destinations