Technically, this is a Buddhist temple to a demon woman who ate other people's children until the Buddha hid her youngest child from her. She then understood the pain of losing a child and became a protector of children. However, it retains a mixed shrine/temple style of architecture from the 1700s -- very very rare in present day Tokyo. The grounds also contain ancient various other shrines and a giant ancient gingko tree said to provide children if prayed to. As yet it is still off the tourist path, so worth visiting for a look at the quieter side of Tokyo. You can buy charms for safe childbirth which would make for good gifts for expecting mothers. Also, there's a unique owl charm made from grass tufts that is said to heal illness.

Although you can’t see Kishimojin in the main hall far behind, you can see the statue in the compound. Also near entrance you see 2 Nioh the guardians near the gate where it used to have Torii gate and was removed. 2nd largest Ginko tree, 2 lucky gods are enshrined there.

For the babies, pregnant moms, and pray for health and happiness. But no Pokémon Go here please! Btw, there are Shinto shrines also for such prayers for happiness, such as the main one in Suitengu. So not sure how to choose your temple, shrine or trust Creator God in another manner?

The once-a-month DIY market in this temple was just amazing. Last time we went there were about seventies stalls out there selling some of the finest handmade, creative, artistic, practical, and unique clothing, decoration, food, and household items. Most stall-owners were extremely friendly to passersby even though (s)he might not end up making a purchase. Just an ideal place!

Not bad but not really special either. There is not much to do at this shrine and the premise is quite small.

A temple from the sixteen hundreds that you guys should totally visit if you are in tokyo. A get away from all the noise and busyness of the city, come and find peace. Photos don't really show how beautiful it is. A bit of history: Kishimojin Temple is dedicated to the Buddhist deity, Kishimojin. A goddess who cares for and protects children, Kishimojin also helps mothers with their deliveries. The goddess will often be found with a child in one hand and a pomegranate in the other, symbols of her undying love and fertility. But, as the legend goes, the goddess was not always so kind and benevolent. In her early days, she was actually a horrifying demon who, in an effort to feed her thousands of children, would go out and abduct other children to serve as food. One day, as she went out looking for kids, the Buddha hid one of her children. In a fit of panic at losing her child, the demon became enlightened to the suffering of other mothers and swore to protect their children

Absolutely spectacular place. Looks very massive in size. Temple is awesome but shame none can go in because of stupid corona. Priests were east to talk to and super friendly. You can buy amulets from them. The ginkgo tree which is extremely old is fantastic. Imagine the things that happened over its life span. It’s not far from ikebukuro station and is really worth going!

A tranquil temple in the middle of busy Tokyo. Also nearby a historical place, the house of the creator of Astro Boy

Cool place. You can buy vert traditional Japanese snacks here, being here since 1764 some year, run by 12th generations. Worth visiting for sure.

Beautiful and peaceful place. Not a lot of people.

If you are interested in Japanese candy and old temples, you should go here. Dagashi are sweets that have been popular in Japan since the Showa period (1926-1989), are very inexpensive, and are mainly eaten by children.

A temple right outside in front of a market was a little shocking but a very interesting location compared to other temples. Obviously not as quiet or serene like other temples but lots of bustling activity here.