Tsukiji Hongwanji’s structure is modeled after ancient Buddhist architecture found in India and other Asian countries and was designed by architect Ito Chuta, who was also involved in the joint design of projects such as Heian Jingu Shrine in Kyoto and Meiji Jingu Shrine in Tokyo’s Harajuku. Ito was famous for his love of “yokai,” a term used to describe traditional Japanese monsters, and the temple is decorated with several carvings of creatures. They include winged lions, oxen, horses, shishi lion dogs, elephants, peacocks, monkeys, Chinese phoenixes, and exotic and strange figures called “grotesques”. In addition, depictions of four legendary Chinese animals: Blue Dragon, Red Peacock, White Tiger, and Black Tortoise are hidden inside.
The temple’s roundish roof is modeled after the leaf of the sacred Bodhi tree. A lotus flower is depicted in the center of the facade. A large pipe organ has been installed inside the main worship hall, and stained glass can be seen above the temple door. These, too, are architectural features unique to the temple. Visitors are encouraged to come experience the distinctive temple architecture which only Ito Chuta, who extensively traveled the Silk Road, could create.