Benten Island

Benten Island stands as a small artificial landmass within the tranquil waters of Shinobazu Pond, featuring traditional Japanese architecture and surrounded by lotus flowers that bloom seasonally throughout the year.

Constructed around 1700 during the Edo period, this artificial island was created as part of extensive landscaping efforts to enhance the spiritual and aesthetic appeal of the surrounding temple complex.

The island serves as a sacred site dedicated to Benzaiten, the goddess of music, arts, and wisdom, where visitors regularly come to pray for success in creative endeavors and scholarly pursuits.

Located within walking distance of Ueno Station and adjacent to Ueno Zoo, the island is accessible via footbridges and offers free entry with optional small donations at the shrine buildings.

The island houses several unusual monuments including the Fugu Memorial dedicated to pufferfish spirits and an Eyeglasses Monument commemorating contributors to spectacle development in Japan, reflecting the diverse cultural influences preserved on this small landmass.

Location: Ueno-kōen

Inception: 17 century

Elevation above the sea: 5.5 m

GPS coordinates: 35.71222,139.77111

Latest update: July 25, 2025 20:40