ABOUT
About this spot
Sengakuji is a Soto Zen temple in Takanawa, Minato City, Tokyo. Its principal image is Shaka Nyorai, and it is counted among the three major Edo-period temples known as the "Edo Sankaiji". It is best known as the resting place of the Ako Gishi, the loyal retainers of the Chushingura story. Tokugawa Ieyasu founded the temple in 1612 at Sotosakurada. After the Great Kanei Fire of 1641 destroyed it, it was rebuilt at its present site on the order of Tokugawa Iemitsu. Asano Naganori, lord of Ako, was ordered to commit seppuku in 1701, and the retainers who avenged him were buried here in 1703. The present main hall dates from 1953. The graves of Asano Naganori and the Ako retainers are a national historic site, with 48 grave markers including the memorial for Kayano Sanpei. Visitors are asked for an incense offering of 500 yen. Other sights include the gates, the well said to have been used to wash the head of Kira Kozukenosuke, and a bronze statue of Oishi Kuranosuke. The Ako Gishi Museum holds items connected with the retainers. The graves are open 7:00-16:00 and the museum 9:00-15:30. Gishi Festivals are held in early April and on 14 December. The temple is about a 3-minute walk from Sengakuji Station, and Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa and Zojoji are within a few kilometres.
Last updated October 25, 2026