Sensoji Temple: 1300 years of history in the heart of Tokyo
Updated: Apr 4
Welcome to our guide to the Sensoji Temple in Asakusa Kannon, Tokyo! The Sensoji Temple is one of Tokyo's oldest and most revered temples, attracting millions of visitors every year. With a rich history dating back over 1,300 years, this temple is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese culture, religion, and history.
Located in the heart of Asakusa, a bustling neighborhood known for its traditional Japanese atmosphere, Sensoji Temple is a symbol of Tokyo's enduring cultural heritage. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there's something special about this temple that will capture your imagination and leave you with unforgettable memories!
In this guide, we'll take you on a virtual tour of Sensoji Temple, introducing you to its history, architecture, and spiritual significance. We'll also provide tips and recommendations to help you make the most of your visit, from navigating the crowds to sampling local food and shopping for souvenirs.
Read on for our Sensoji Temple highlights, a bit of history, facts, and all you need to know to plan your trip here!
Table of Contents
● Sensoji Temple: The Heart of Tokyo
● Kaminarimon Gate - The Thunder Gate of Asakusa
● History of Sensoji Temple in Japan
● 10 interesting facts about Sensoji Temple
● Sensoji Temple visiting times
● Best time to visit Sensoji Temple
● Tips for visiting Sensoji Temple
● Things to see and do at Sensoji Temple
● Omikuji at Sensoji Temple - What is Omikuji?
● How to get to Sensoji Temple
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Sensoji Temple: The Heart of Tokyo
Sensoji Temple was our first stop in our tour of Tokyo and stepping through the gates of Hozo-mon and Kaminarmon was like being transported to another world. The air was filled with the sound of bells and the smell of incense. The temple itself was a riot of color, with red lanterns hanging from the eaves and gold leaf adorning the pillars.
As we walked through the temple, taking in the sights and sounds, we saw people praying, bowing, and offering incense. We saw children running and playing. We saw couples sitting together, lost in conversation. We saw monks, Geisha girls, photographers, fascinated tourists and interested scholars. The sense sense of peace and tranquility, despite being amongst masses of people, was a paradox that we will always remember.
What is a pagoda?
Pagodas are tower-like structures that can be seen at many Buddhist temples around the world. Also known as a stupa, they contains the ashes of the Buddha. In India, where Buddhism was born, stupa's were originally dome-shaped. They changed to the tower-shape, like the one of Sensoji Temple, in the years that followed Buddhism's introduction in China.
The temple was a feast for the senses with just so much to see and do. Milling around the cute stores of Nakimise-dori was super fun, while there is a host of other cool statues and places of worship that seem to be just about everywhere. For us it was a dream come true, like plucking the temple directly out of the plethora of photos we have seen it in and dreamt about. It was right there, all around us, in this marvelous complex with over one thousand years of history.
Wonderful architecture, especially against the backdrop of a clear blue sky, can do wonders for the energy and vibrancy of a place. It just so happened that we managed to find ourselves here on a day like that, and we were most grateful! Aside from the spiritual aspects of being here, photos come out pretty well, even with the throws of thousands of people.
We were particularly impressed with the inside of the temple; a dazzling array of red and white, beautiful lanterns and epic artwork. It really is a special place and we can totally see why it is the most visited temple in the world! Get ready to take a deep dive into the history, facts and much more in this comprehensive guide!
Kaminarimon Gate - The Thunder Gate of Asakusa
Kaminarimon Gate is the iconic entrance gate to Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo. It's one of the most recognizable landmarks in Japan and is often featured in photographs and travel guides.
The gate was originally built in 942 AD, but it has been destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout history. The current version of Kaminarimon Gate dates back to 1960 and features a towering red lantern and two massive wooden statues of gods.
The giant red lantern, which measures 3.3 meters in diameter and weighs 700 kilograms, is a symbol of the gate and is often featured in pictures. The lantern is inscribed with the gate's name, Kaminarimon, which means "Thunder Gate." Its more formal name is Furaijinmon which literally means “the gate of the wind god and thunder god” and this is represented by the characters on the back of the lantern.
This style of lantern is called a “chochin”, consisting of a spiral bamboo frame covered in hundreds of sheets of paper. This type of frame allows the lantern to be collapsed during the Sanja Matsuri festival, when portable shrines need to pass through the gate. The lantern has been remade five times since 1960 by specialist lantern makers in Kyoto, the current version you see today having been installed in 2003.
The two statues on either side of the gate are known as Fujin and Raijin. Fujin is the god of wind, and Raijin is the god of thunder. The statues are over 3 meters tall and are carved from Japanese cypress wood.
Passing through Kaminarimon Gate is a symbolic act that represents leaving the secular world and entering the spiritual world of the temple. The gate leads visitors to Nakamise-dori, a vibrant shopping street that leads to the main hall of Sensoji Temple.
The Kaminarimon is free to visit and accessible at all times. We went through the gate at perhaps the busiest time of midday, and unsurprisingly it was very crowded and congested. It is illuminated in the evenings, and as there are less crowds at night, so this might be the best time to visit if you are looking to take photos and videos without the tourists!
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History of Sensoji Temple in Tokyo
The Sensoji Temple, also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple, has a rich and fascinating history that incredibly spans over 1,300 years. According to legend, the temple was founded in the year 628 CE, when two fishermen discovered a small statue of the Buddhist goddess Kannon in the Sumida River. They brought the statue to a local wealthy man named Hajino Nakatomo, who recognized its spiritual significance and enshrined it in a small temple that he built in his home.
Over the centuries, the temple grew in popularity and importance, and it became a center of worship for the people of Edo (modern-day Tokyo) and beyond. However, much of the temple's original structures were destroyed in the fires and earthquakes that plagued the city over the centuries.
In 1649, the shogun Tokugawa Lemitsu commissioned the rebuilding of the temple, and it was given the name Sensoji, meaning "Asakusa Temple of the Thousand Lights." The temple was designed in the distinctive style of the Edo period, with large wooden buildings and colorful roofs adorned with intricate carvings and paintings.
During World War II, the temple suffered significant damage from bombing raids, but it was rebuilt after the war with the help of donations from the Japanese people. Today, Sensoji Temple remains one of Tokyo's most important cultural and religious landmarks, attracting millions of visitors from around the world every year.
In addition to its spiritual significance, Sensoji Temple is also known for its unique cultural and artistic heritage. The temple houses a number of important cultural artifacts, including a set of dragon paintings by the renowned Edo-period artist Kanō Sanraku, as well as numerous statues, scrolls, and other treasures.
Throughout its long and storied history, Sensoji Temple has been a symbol of Tokyo's enduring cultural heritage and a testament to the resilience of the Japanese people in the face of adversity. Whether you're a religious pilgrim or a curious traveler, a visit to this remarkable temple is an unforgettable experience, especially with this kind of history.
Read on for more information on how to get there, temple visiting times and our Sensoji Temple rating.
10 Interesting facts about Sensoji Temple
1. Sensoji Temple is the oldest and most significant Buddhist temple in Tokyo, Japan. It was founded in the year 628 CE, making it over 1,300 years old. The temple is dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy and compassion. The small statue of Kannon that was discovered in the Sumida River is enshrined in the temple and is a major object of worship.
2. Sensoji Temple is the most visited temple in the world, with an estimated 30 million visitors per year. It is followed by the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, India, with an estimated 25 million visitors per year. The third most visited temple in the world is the Angkor Wat temple complex in Cambodia, with an estimated 20 million visitors per annum.
3. The temple is located in the Asakusa district of Tokyo, which is known for its traditional Japanese atmosphere, street food, and souvenir shops.
4. The Hozo-mon gate, the main entrance to the temple, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Tokyo. It features a large red lantern that weighs almost 700 pounds and is over 4 feet in diameter.
5. Visitors to the temple can purify themselves by washing their hands and mouth with water from a large stone basin known as the chōzuya.
6. Sensoji Temple is home to a large pagoda that stands over 5 stories tall. The pagoda was originally built in the 7th century, but the current structure was built in 1648.
7. The temple's main hall, known as the Kannondo, houses the statue of Kannon and is one of the most important buildings in the complex.
8. Sensoji Temple is surrounded by a bustling street market called Nakamise-dori, which features dozens of shops selling traditional Japanese souvenirs and snacks.
9. The temple is a popular destination for Japanese festivals and events, including the Sanja Matsuri, one of Tokyo's largest and most famous festivals.
10. The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times throughout its history, including after fires in the 17th and 18th centuries and bombings during World War II. However, it has always been rebuilt to its original design, making it a testament to the resilience of the Japanese people.
The large woven shoes at Sensoji Temple are called "O-Waraji" in Japanese, which translates to "big straw sandals." These sandals are a traditional form of footwear that were commonly worn by Japanese farmers and laborers in the past.
The O-Waraji at Sensoji Temple are enormous, measuring over 4 meters in length and weighing about 2 tons each. They are displayed on a platform near the Hozomon Gate, one of the main gates of the temple.
The shoes are made from straw, with the weaving technique passed down through generations of craftsmen. The giant O-Waraji at Sensoji Temple were first made in 1979 and were created to commemorate the 1,250th anniversary of the founding of the temple.
The O-Waraji are considered to be a symbol of good luck and are said to bring success and prosperity to those who touch or walk through them. Visitors can walk through the giant sandals and make a wish, or simply touch them for good luck.
A unique and fascinating part of the Sensoji Temple complex, the O-Waraji are a popular attraction for both tourists and locals alike. They are a great example of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and culture, and are definitely worth checking out when exploring the temple grounds. To be honest, you can't really miss them!
Sensoji Temple visiting times
The visiting times for Sensoji Temple vary depending on the season. Generally, the temple grounds are open to visitors year-round and there is no admission fee. Here are the typical visiting times for the temple:
⪢ March to September
The temple is open from 6:00 am to 5:00 pm.
⪢ October to February
The temple is open from 6:30 am to 5:00 pm.
It's worth noting that the temple can get quite crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Additionally, some areas of the temple complex, such as the main hall, may have limited hours or require an additional fee to enter. Be sure to ask at the entrance for the latest information.
Best time to visit Sensoji Temple
The best time to visit Sensoji Temple depends on your preferences and travel plans. Here are some factors to consider:
⪢ Weather
Tokyo can be hot and humid in the summer, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). If you prefer cooler weather, consider visiting in the spring or fall when temperatures are more moderate.
⪢ Crowds
Sensoji Temple is a popular destination year-round, but it can be especially crowded during Japanese holidays and festivals. If you want to avoid the crowds, try visiting on a weekday, early in the morning, or late in the afternoon.
⪢ Seasonal events
Sensoji Temple hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Sanja Matsuri in May and the Hagoita Market in December. If you're interested in attending a festival, plan your visit accordingly.
⪢ Cherry blossom season
The cherry blossoms in Tokyo typically bloom in late March to early April, making it a popular time to visit Sensoji Temple and other sights in the city. However, this is also one of the busiest times of year, so be prepared for large crowds.
⪢ Best time to visit
Overall, the best time to visit Sensoji Temple is during the weekdays and during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are more manageable.
Tips for visiting Sensoji Temple
Here are some important things to know when visiting Sensoji Temple:
⪢ Dress appropriately
As a religious site, it is important to dress modestly when visiting Sensoji Temple. Avoid wearing shorts, mini-skirts, or revealing tops. Also, be sure to remove your hat and shoes before entering the main hall.
⪢ Respect the customs and traditions
Sensoji Temple is an active place of worship, so it is important to respect the customs and traditions of the temple. This includes bowing before the altar, refraining from taking photos in certain areas, and not touching any of the objects of worship.
⪢ Be mindful of the crowds
Sensoji Temple is a popular destination and can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Be aware of your surroundings and be patient when navigating through the crowds.
⪢ Take your time to explore
The temple complex is quite large and there is much to see and experience. Take your time to explore the different areas, including the Hozo-mon gate, Nakamise-dori, and the Kannondo main hall.
⪢ Try the local street food
Asakusa is known for its street food, and the area around Sensoji Temple is no exception. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as senbei (rice crackers), melon bread, or ningyo-yaki (small cake-like sweets shaped like dolls).
⪢ Watch for signs and announcements
Sensoji Temple has several rules and regulations, so be sure to watch for signs and announcements posted around the temple grounds. For example, some areas may be off-limits or require an additional fee to enter.
⪢ No smoking on temple grounds
As with all temples in Japan, and indeed even on the main streets of Tokyo, smoking is forbidden and subject to heavy fines. Refrain from doing so on temple grounds, and look for designated smoking areas if you really need to light up.
⪢ Consider joining a guided tour
If you want to learn more about the history and significance of Sensoji Temple, consider joining a guided tour. There are several tour companies that offer guided tours of the temple complex, which can provide a deeper understanding of the temple's history and culture.
Things to see and do at Sensoji Temple
There are several things to do at Sensoji Temple and in the surrounding area of Asakusa. Here are a few suggestions that you can try:
⪢ Explore the temple complex
Take your time to explore the different areas of the temple complex, including the Hozo-mon gate, the Nakamise-dori shopping street, and the Kannondo main hall. There is plenty to see and you can easily get lost amongst the endless stores and beautiful monuments!
⪢ Light some incense
One of the most popular activities at Sensoji Temple is to light an incense stick at the giant incense burner in front of the main hall. It is believed that the smoke from the incense has healing properties.
⪢ Try the local restaurants or street food
Asakusa is known for its street food, and the area around Sensoji Temple is no exception. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as senbei (rice crackers), melon bread, or ningyo-yaki (small cake-like sweets shaped like dolls). There are also tons of tempting restaurants to try, many of them very local and traditional.
We found this cute spot on the side road running parallel with Nakamise-dori shopping street. You will certainly feel the full Japanese restaurant experience here! It was very reasonable on price and the food was great. It was cash only though so be prepared if you do give it a try.
Do you recognize this restaurant? If you know the name of it please get in touch so we can add a map to it!
⪢ Visit the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
The Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center is located next to Sensoji Temple and offers great views of the surrounding area from its observation deck. The center also provides information on other attractions and events in Asakusa (in English too).
⪢ Take a boat ride on the Sumida River
The Sumida River flows through Asakusa and offers great views of the city skyline. You can take a boat ride along the river to see some of the city's landmarks from a different perspective.
⪢ Attend a festival or event at Sensoji Temple
Sensoji Temple hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Sanja Matsuri in May and the Hagoita Market in December. Be sure to check the temple's event calendar to see what's happening during your visit.
⪢ Visit the Tokyo SkyTree
The Tokyo Skytree is a towering observation tower located a short distance from Sensoji Temple (just look up, you literally can't miss it. From the observation deck, you can enjoy incredible panoramic views of Tokyo and the surrounding area, weather permitting. Find out more information about the Tokyo SkyTree here.
Omikuji at Sensoji Temple - What is Omikuji?
What is the name of the fortune telling game at the Sensoji temple and other temples in Japan? That name is Omikuji, a traditional Japanese practice of fortune-telling found in many shrines and temples, including Sensoji Temple. It involves drawing a random paper strip that reveals a person's fortune or prediction for the future.
To participate in Omikuji at Sensoji Temple or any other shrine/temple, follow these steps:
1. Purchase an Omikuji: Look for the Omikuji stall or booth within the temple grounds. Usually, there will be a designated area where you can buy an Omikuji for a small fee.
2. Shake the container: Once you have your Omikuji, shake a cylindrical container filled with numbered sticks. Shake it until one stick falls out.
3. Retrieve your numbered stick: The stick you retrieve corresponds to a numbered drawer or compartment containing paper strips with different fortunes.
4. Obtain your fortune: Take the paper strip from the corresponding drawer. The strip will have your fortune written on it, ranging from very good luck (daikichi) to very bad luck (daikyo).
5. Read your fortune: Unfold the paper strip and read your fortune in detail. It may provide insights into various aspects of your life, such as health, love, career, or relationships.
6. Accept or discard the fortune: Depending on your fortune, you have options. If the fortune is positive, you may keep it as a good omen. If the fortune is negative, you can tie the strip to a designated area within the temple or shrine to leave the bad luck behind.
Omikuji was a really a fun and culturally enriching experience for us, providing a glimpse into Japanese beliefs and superstitions. It's a wonderful way to engage with the traditions and rituals of Sensoji Temple and other sacred places in Japan for sure. We really felt the vibes here... will you? What will your fortune be?
How to get to Sensoji Temple
There are several ways to get to Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo. Here are some of the most convenient options:
⪢ By train
Take the Tokyo Metro Ginza line or Toei Asakusa line to Asakusa Station. From there, it's just a short walk to Sensoji Temple.
⪢ By Bus
Take the Toei bus or the Tobu bus to Asakusa Kaminarimon bus stop. It's a 5 minute walk to the temple from there.
⪢ By Taxi
Taxis are widely available in Tokyo, and you can simply tell the driver that you want to go to Sensoji Temple in Asakusa. They are known to be on the pricey side, so be sure to settle your price before you head out.
⪢ By Bike
Asakusa is a bike-friendly area, and there are several bike rental shops in the area. You can rent a bike and cycle to Sensoji Temple and other nearby attractions.
If you are coming from Tokyo's Narita International Airport, the most convenient way to get to Sensoji Temple is by the Keisei Skyliner. Take the Skyliner to Ueno Station, and transfer to the Tokyo Metro Ginza line or Toei Asakusa line to Asakusa Station.
Regardless of how you choose to get there, Sensoji Temple is a popular destination, so it's best to plan ahead and allow plenty of time to explore the temple and surrounding area.
Our first impressions of Tokyo on YouTube
Tokyo Japan is a remarkable city! We arrive to explore this state of the art technological and visual art capital. We try out the 7-11 which is a large part of Tokyo culture and became a quick favourite of ours as well.
We start by exploring the subway system and head to see Shibuya Crossing. In this video it wasn't too busy because of the time of day but in our future visit in an upcoming video we saw it in a much busier state. We head to the iconic red lantern at Senso-ji Temple and stroll the lovely walkways and shops leading up to the temple. We stop for a delicious traditional Japanese lunch before strolling across the Sumida River Walk Bridge.
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Our Sensoji Temple experience rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
Sensoji Temple is one of the most visited temples in Japan for good reason! You can certainly feel the energetic presence here and the temple itself is a wonderful place of pause, calm and reflection. Even with the masses of people around us we were completely enamoured by this important site.
There is plenty do do here alongside the visiting the temple and it is most certainly a must-see in Tokyo. The shopping street is awesome to walk through too and you can really feel the Japanese tradition running through the entire area. For us it was the first temple we saw in Japan itself too so even just for this reason alone it will always hold a special space in our memories.
As ever thank you for stopping by, and please feel free to share your experience, or ask any questions you may have, in the comments below. All feedback on the post is welcome too!
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