Reiyukai Shakaden Temple is a Buddhist place of worship and the headquarters of the Reiyukai movement in Azabudai, Minato City. Its dark, stepped pyramid form, crowned by two gold rings, gives it an unusual profile near Tokyo Tower. Visitors can enter public areas and see the spacious interior, with a large wooden Buddha carved from camphor. The temple also holds a 400-tonne drinking-water reservoir intended for emergency use. It is a worthwhile stop if you are interested in modern religious architecture as well as Buddhist sites.
A modern temple near Tokyo Tower
Reiyukai Shakaden is the headquarters of the Reiyukai Buddhist movement, in Azabudai, Minato City. The modern building is known for its dark, angular pyramid shape and two gold rings at the top. Its unconventional exterior has earned it informal spaceship and science-fiction comparisons, but it is an active religious site, not a themed attraction.
The temple is open to the public, though private events can limit access to parts of the complex. Check ahead if seeing a particular area is important to your visit.
Inside the complex
Public areas lead into a spacious interior that echoes the building’s pyramidal form. The complex contains a large meditation and worship space with a wooden Buddha statue, eight metres tall and carved from camphor. Access to some areas may be restricted during official meetings.
The building also contains a reservoir holding 400 tonnes of drinking water for emergency use, including disasters such as earthquakes. Brochures in several languages near the main worship room can help explain the religious setting. As you explore, follow any instructions from temple staff and be mindful that people may be there to worship.
FAQ
Can visitors go inside Reiyukai Shakaden Temple?
The temple is open to the public, and visitors can explore public areas. Private events may restrict access to some parts of the complex.
What can you see inside the temple?
The complex has a large meditation and worship space with an eight-metre wooden Buddha carved from camphor. Brochures in several languages are available near the main worship room.
Where is Reiyukai Shakaden Temple?
It is in Azabudai, Minato City, Tokyo, a short distance from Tokyo Tower.
How much water does the temple reservoir hold?
The emergency drinking-water reservoir holds 400 tonnes.
