蓮華寺

Renshoji is a Buddhist temple in Kita-ku featuring traditional Japanese gardens with a central pond where carp swim among water lilies. Stone lanterns line the pathways, and maple trees provide shade and color throughout the seasons.

The temple was founded at a different location and moved to its current site in 1662 under the direction of a high-ranking samurai official. This relocation marked a significant chapter in the temple's continued development over centuries.

Stone Buddha statues numbering in the thousands were discovered during construction work on a railway line and are now displayed throughout the grounds. They form a central focus for visitors walking the temple pathways.

The temple is easily reached by public transport and visitors will find plenty of shaded areas to rest along the pathways. Taking time to wander slowly allows you to notice details like the lanterns and garden elements scattered throughout.

The temple features distinctive hexagonal stone lanterns with steep roofs that became popular among tea ceremony practitioners and are now named after this site. Few visitors notice these lanterns at first glance, yet they are an important part of the garden design.