Chambalin

Chambalin is a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Aoyamadai with traditional Tibetan architectural elements and gilded prayer wheels positioned atop steep stone steps leading to the main hall. The grounds include a cafe where authentic Tibetan dishes such as thukpa noodle soup and butter tea made with imported yak milk are served.

A female chief priest trained at the Jokhang monastery in Lhasa founded this temple and became the first Japanese woman ordained as a Tibetan chief priest. The establishment marked a significant moment in the history of Tibetan Buddhism in Japan.

The temple displays numerous thangkas, traditional Tibetan Buddhist paintings that narrate the life and teachings of Buddha through detailed artistic representations. These artworks shape the spiritual environment and reflect how the place honors Tibetan artistic traditions.

The temple is located in Moriyama-ku and is accessible on foot, though the steep stone steps to the main hall require sturdy footwear. The adjoining cafe offers a good opportunity to rest during your visit and sample local dishes.

The temple blends Tibetan and Japanese cultural elements in a way rarely found elsewhere in Japan, making it a notable place for cross-cultural spiritual experience. Visitors can directly encounter this rare fusion while moving through the spaces and exploring the grounds.