Autumn Foliage at Kuhonbutsu Joshin-ji Temple- Japanese home cooking class in Tokyo
Autumn Foliage at Kuhonbutsu Joshin-ji Temple- Japanese home cooking class in Tokyo
Kuhonbutsu Jōshinji Temple,
located in Setagaya, Tokyo, is a prominent temple of the Jōdo (Pure Land) sect and one of the city’s most celebrated autumn foliage spots. In 2025, the leaves are expected to reach their peak slightly later than usual, from late November through mid-December. Early December in particular offers a breathtaking display of fiery maples and golden ginkgoes, creating a picture-perfect scene for visitors and photographers alike.
Autumn Foliage at Kuhonbutsu Joshin-ji Temple- Japanese home cooking class in Tokyo
Highlights include the vividly colored maples and the giant ginkgo trees around the Main Hall (designated as a Natural Monument of Tokyo), a charming “tunnel” of autumn leaves along the stone-paved approach, and the three temple halls — Jōhindō, Chūhindō, and Gehindo — surrounded by carpets of fallen leaves that beautifully accentuate the historical architecture. The entire temple grounds offer a harmonious blend of seasonal color and classic temple design.
Autumn Foliage at Kuhonbutsu Joshin-ji Temple- Japanese home cooking class in Tokyo
For a peaceful visit, weekday mornings are recommended to avoid crowds. As of November 24, the leaves have already begun to change, and the next two weeks are expected to be the best time to visit. Access is convenient: it’s about a four-minute walk from Kuhonbutsu Station on the Tokyu Ōimachi Line. Please note that parking is not available, so public transportation is advised. Within the grounds, visitors can also admire nine graceful statues of Amida Nyorai — the “Nine Amitabha Buddhas” — and the temple’s important cultural properties, including the three main halls and the grand main gate.
Autumn Foliage at Kuhonbutsu Joshin-ji Temple- Japanese home cooking class in Tokyo
The Main Buddhist Statues
The temple’s three halls — Jōhindō, Chūhindō, and Gehindō — enshrine a total of nine statues of Amida Nyorai, representing the nine levels of rebirth in the Pure Land (the Kuhon concept). These statues embody the Jōdo sect’s distinctive belief in “Nine Grades of Rebirth” (Kuhon Ōjō) and have been treasured since the Edo period.
Architectural Highlights
All three halls are designated Important Cultural Properties of Japan and are distinguished by their majestic hinoki (Japanese cypress) construction. The temple gate and belfry along the approach also exude a deep historical atmosphere, with the vermilion gate leaving a vivid impression. The temple’s layout harmonizes beautifully with its expansive natural surroundings, offering a serene charm in both the maple season and springtime cherry blossom period. Strolling along the garden paths and around the pond provides a tranquil experience, making Jōshinji a beloved place where architecture, Buddhist art, and nature come together in perfect balance.
Autumn Foliage at Kuhonbutsu Joshin-ji Temple- Japanese home cooking class in Tokyo
Comme'N TOKYO in Kuhombutsu
https://commen.jp/ Comme'N TOKYO
Comme'N TOKYO in Kuhombutsu is a renowned bakery led by Chef Shuichi Osawa, the first Japanese to win the overall championship at the World Bread Competition, Mondial du Pain. Opened in 2020, this popular bakery attracts a steady stream of visitors daily. It’s open year-round from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., conveniently located just a one-minute walk from Kuhombutsu Station at 7-18-5 Okusawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo.
Inside, you’ll find over 100 varieties of bread, ranging from creative items like baguettes filled with prosciutto and Camembert to expertly crafted classics. Payments can be made by credit card, e-money, or QR code, and all items are available for takeout only.
Comme'N also operates a sister shop, Comme'N GLUTEN FREE, specializing in gluten-free breads and sandwiches just a minute’s walk from the main store. Nearby, Comme'N STAND offers a relaxing café experience where you can enjoy breads paired with curated butters and dips, along with coffee roasted by one of Kuramae’s top roasters.
In summary, Comme'N TOKYO is a world-class bakery where Chef Osawa’s craftsmanship shines. Its convenient location, variety of bread offerings, and nearby gluten-free bakery and café make it a destination that caters to every taste and lifestyle.
