Former Kan'eiji Temple Five-Story Pagoda

Overview

The Former Kan'eiji Temple Five-Story Pagoda, located in Ueno Park, is a national treasure five-story pagoda built in the early Edo period. It was constructed as part of Ueno Toshogu Shrine, coinciding with the creation of the mausoleum for Tokugawa Iemitsu. Initially, it stood slightly east of its current location within the Ueno Toshogu Shrine grounds. It burned down in 1639 and was subsequently rebuilt at its present site in the same year. During the Meiji era's *haibutsu kishaku* movement (the suppression of Buddhism), which led to the destruction of many temples, the Former Kan'eiji Temple Five-Story Pagoda was saved thanks to the efforts of the then-chief priest, who successfully argued for its preservation. In 1958, it was donated to Tokyo Metropolis and now stands as a precious structure where history and nature intertwine within the grounds of Ueno Zoo. The Former Kan'eiji Temple Five-Story Pagoda is a popular spot for tourists, serving as a symbol of Ueno Park. Its imposing stature, standing silently, evokes a profound sense of history. Be sure to visit it when you explore Ueno Zoo.