Ikosan Homyoji

This temple is located a mere 15 minutes from Ikebukuro Station but has a quietness and tranquillity that makes it hard to believe you are still in the city. It has been revered for its beautiful cherry blossoms since the Edo period. The temple’s bell is decorated with unusual patterns (an abacus and scales strike us as fairly odd bell décor) and has been designated an important cultural property by the Tokyo metro government.