Just off Shinjuku-dori a minute's walk or so from Yotsuya-sanchome subway station, Sasadera is a quiet Buddhist temple, with a restful atmosphere that's in stark contrast to the urban bustle around it.
Even though you still have tall buildings looming over you, the temple is set back from the busy main road, so it's possible to escape the noise and crowds here and in the quieter residential streets to the south of the temple.
The graveyard is typically tranquil, with some ancient grave markers, a Buddhist statue or two, and the long boards which stand at each grave, their gentle rattle pretty much the only sound.
The main point of interest is a large statue of the Kannon, a Buddhist deity, standing tall and serene above everyone. Get up close and in the metal around the base you'll see a few scenes showing Buddhist saints, monks and devotees, rendered in marvelous detail.
