Zojo-ji Temple sits just under the Tokyo Tower and this contrast of old and new is impressive. But for me, the most beautiful, saddest and unique part of the temple is the rows and rows of clothed and decorated jizo statues, situated to the right of the main temple building. The statues represent the souls of unborn children: those who died before birth, as well as those yet to be born. Some of the statues here are well taken care of and obviously visited often, while others are neglected and alone.
- 1 min read
The Jizo Statues of Zojo-ji Temple
Beauty and Sadness at the Foot of the Tokyo Tower

Community writer

Offering up a prayer

Each of the statues here has its very own expression

Comfortable under the trees

This statue is new and well cared for

The rows of statues stretches on for almost 100 meters

Little toys and stuffed animals (like this Pooh Bear) are often left at the base of the statue

What a beautiful little soul

This area of the temple is to the right of the main temple building

Some of the statues are not as well cared for as others

Moving to the beat of a different drummer: A very rare green cap and hood. Most are red

The Tokyo Tower stands high over the statues, watching out for their well being

This moss growing here indicates longevity, yet the red cap seems to be in good condition
Explore nearby
-
-
-
-
The Prince Park Tower Tokyo
Featured
Leave a comment
0 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
Only in Japan: Vending Machines That Go Way Beyond Drinks
Culture -
2
Cherry Blossoms and Tuna Gourmet in Nachikatsuura
Wakayama - Sponsored -
3
Create Your Own Adventure in Uchiko, Ehime Prefecture
Ehime - Sponsored -
4
Cherry Blossoms, Onsen, and Tochigi Cuisine in Oku-Nikko
Accommodation - Sponsored -
5
World Theatre Festival Shizuoka 2025: Where the City Becomes the Stage
Shizuoka - Sponsored -
6
Kamenoi Hotel Nikko Yunishigawa: An All-Inclusive Resort
Tochigi - Sponsored -
7
INDEN-YA: An Over 400-year-old Crafts Business
Yamanashi - Sponsored -
8
Takaharu: Where Legends, Culture, and Nature Coexist
Miyazaki - Sponsored -
9
Kendo
Culture -
10
Wild Hokkaido
Activities
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
3
Meguro River Cherry Blossom Festival
Tokyo -
4
Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival
Tokyo -
5
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
6
Iwatayama Monkey Park
Kyoto -
7
May Grand Sumo Tournament (Tokyo)
Tokyo -
8
Daikoku Car Meet
Kanagawa -
9
Kanamara Penis Festival
Kanagawa -
10
Japanese Urban Legends
Culture