Good Attractions in Taito-ku (Tokyo)

Tokudaiji Temple

Named for an Indian goddess (Brahmin Benten's daughter Marici) Marishi is known for usually being perched on top of a boar and is distinctive with her fours arms and three faces. She safeguards warriors and is popularly patronized as a facilitator for good business (which may explain the location) in the middle of a former black market area of Ameyoko on the second floor of a commercial building.

Iriya no Kishibojin (Shingen-ji Temple)

Built in 1659, during the Edo period by Buddhist monk, Nichiyu, the Shingen-ji Temple is located in Tokyo's Taito district. During the Meiji period, the temple became famous for its Iriya Asagao (Morning Glory) Festival, held every July. Dedicated to Kishibojin, the Buddhist goddess of children and mothers, the temple is accessible by the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line and is only a short walk from the Iriya station. Admission is free.

Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens

The vast Iwasaki estate that was founded in 1886 by the Iwasaki family is an important cultural asset. It has a beautiful western style residence, a princely Japanese style house and extensive gardens. The craft of making ‘kinkarakawa paper'(gold leather work like paper) has almost disappeared. But if you visit the Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens, you will see this work on the garden's wall. Free for Jr. High school and Elementary school students living in Tokyo.

Ueno Zoological Gardens

If you are a Jungle Book fan then, Tokyo's oldest zoo: the Ueno Zoological Gardens is the place to head to. Come and see tigers, lions and bears in natural surroundings. Get nose to nose with Gorillas at the “Gorilla Woods". In the Petting zoo, you can play with rare species like Okapis and aye-ayes. The zoo also has animals imported from Africa, so don't feel bad if you've missed on that safari trip. You'll get to see the zebras, hippos, giraffes, emus and more. This zoo is home to 2600 animals from 464 different species and you'll get to see rare birds that you didn't even know existed. The five storied Pagoda and the tea ceremony add the Japanese touch to the zoo.