Located in Taito City, Tokyo, Shinobazu Pond is a well-known attraction at the southern end of Ueno Onshi Park. With a perimeter of about 2 kilometers and a total area of 110,000 square meters, it offers distinct seasonal scenery and serves as a rare tranquil oasis in the city. Both tourists and local residents enjoy strolling, sightseeing, or simply relaxing by the pond.
Shinobazu Pond boasts a prime location—bordered to the north by the west garden of Ueno Zoo, to the east by Keisei Ueno Station, and to the south and west by Shinobazu-dori Avenue. At its center lies a symbolic small island called Benten Island, also known as "Nakajima." The island enshrines Benzaiten, the eight-armed goddess of wisdom and music, also revered as a deity of fortune.
The pond is cleverly divided by walkways and embankments into three main sections: the Lotus Pond, filled with blooming lotuses; the Boat Pond, where visitors can enjoy boating; and the Cormorant Pond, designated for raising cormorants. In summer, the lotus flowers are in full bloom, adding a romantic and poetic charm that attracts photographers and sightseers alike.
Benten-do, officially named Shinobazu Pond Benten-do, is a Buddhist temple built in the early Edo period. Affiliated with the Tendai sect and the Toeizan Kan'ei-ji Temple, it was modeled after Hogon-ji Temple on Chikubu Island in Shiga Prefecture. Shinobazu Pond is metaphorically likened to Lake Biwa. The temple's principal deity is the eight-armed Benzaiten, holding eight sacred instruments that dispel delusions—mysterious and solemn. During the "Yanaka Seven Lucky Gods Pilgrimage" from January 1 to 10, the altar remains closed, and it is only open for worship during the major festival in September, making it a rare occasion. Nearby stands Daikokuten-do, dedicated to Daikokuten, a deity favored by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, symbolizing abundance and wealth.
According to the stone monument on Benten Island, the name "Shinobazu Pond" originates from "Shinobu Hill" (Japanese: 忍ヶ丘 / Shinobugaoka), a place between the Ueno and Hongo plateaus, and can be traced back to the 15th century, reflecting its long-standing history.
