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2-chōme-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
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More than any other site in Japan’s capital, Tokyo’s Senso-ji temple seems tuned into the pulse of Japan’s religious heartbeat. The flurry of activity that surrounds this temple at all times of the year underscores its significance — even today, sumo wrestlers come here to pay their respects before the big annual tournaments, driven by hopes of defeating their opponents and becoming champions.
While Senso-ji is located in a major sightseeing area, there are still a few hidden spots that even the most seasoned Tokyo travelers have yet to discover. This is a complete guide to the history and attractions of one of Japan’s most famous temples.
The Temple’s History
Senso-ji is Tokyo’s oldest and most important Buddhist temple, making it a requisite stop on any Japan itinerary, especially if you don’t plan on visiting a temple-heavy destination like Kyoto.
The origin story of Senso-ji heavily involves Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of compassion. In the year 628, two fishermen brothers discovered a statue of the goddess in the nearby Sumida River. Not knowing what it was, they initially discarded the image, throwing Kannon back into the river. Shortly after, however, the goddess reappeared in their fishing nets. Regardless of how many times the brothers threw it back, the mysterious figure would continue to reappear. Eventually, they carried the image to the head of the village, who recognized it as the goddess of compassion. Senso-ji grew around the worship of this image of Kannon.
Today, no one knows where this statue is located — the legend suggests that 17 years later, a Buddhist priest hid the image from public sight somewhere within the temple. Others say that Kannon lies buried somewhere beneath the temple grounds.
A Guide Through Senso-ji
Visitors approach Senso-ji temple through Kaminari-mon, or Thunder Gate. With its gigantic red-paper lantern, this serves as the main entrance to the temple complex. Thunder Gate has endured many changes since its initial construction in 941. Fires destroyed the gate at least five times between 941 and the late 1880s, and air raids again destroyed Kaminari-mon during World War II.
At almost 40 feet tall and wide, the current Kaminari-mon is a post-war reconstruction largely funded by the founder of Panasonic. Its impressive lantern measures about 13 feet tall by 11 feet wide and weighs approximately 1500 pounds. Guarding the temple from evil spirits are two wrathful deities standing in tall, fenced alcoves: the Thunder God on the left and the Wind God on the right.
Before reaching Senso-ji’s main hall, visitors pass through Nakamise-dori, an area lined with food stalls and shops. Behind the last block of shops, there’s Denbo-in — a smaller Buddhist temple with a secret garden. Once reserved exclusively for the temple’s abbot and Japanese nobility, today the garden is open to the public. Unbeknownst to most tourists, this serene enclave provides an ideal escape from midday crowds. Denbo-in welcomes outside visitors in spring, from March to May.
Hozomon, or Treasure House Gate, marks the entrance to Senso-ji’s inner area with three large lanterns. The gate houses sutras (Buddhist texts) and other treasures, and two fearsome guardian gods stand watch here along with an enormous pair of traditional sandals that hang on the back wall.
As visitors move through Hozomon, they will encounter a huge bronze incense burner in front of Senso-ji’s Main Hall. Many visitors fan the wafting incense smoke toward their bodies as a form of protection against illness and misfortunes. The Main Hall is where people offer their prayers, and it’s advisable to have some loose change to toss into the offering box. Before leaving the inner grounds, don’t forget to appreciate the looming five-story pagoda to the right.
Where to Eat at Senso-Ji
Nakamise-dori is the area leading up to the Main Hall, featuring over 80 stalls selling a vibrant array of souvenirs and snacks. For friends back home, consider picking up a few maneki-neko figurines — the beckoning cats that greet customers at almost every commercial establishment in Japan.
This area is an excellent place to try local street food, including baked senbei crackers and imo yokan, delightful balls of sweet potato jelly. One of Senso-ji’s signature street foods is ningyo yaki, small sponge cakes filled with red bean paste. Among these cakes are tiny replicas of Senso-ji’s notable sights, like the giant lantern at Kaminari-mon. This area also has another popular treat called kaminari okoshi, or “thunder crackers.” These uniquely satisfying puffed rice crackers are made from rice, millet, sugar, and beans, and are available fresh or packaged. Most shops at Nakamise-dori remain open until 5 p.m., and it’s best to arrive mid-morning, before the afternoon tour groups flock in.
Temple Festivals and Events
Senso-ji hosts numerous exciting festivals throughout the year, including Tokyo’s largest cultural event, the Sanja Matsuri. Over the third weekend in May, dozens of portable Shinto shrines are carried from the temple through the nearby streets. Senso-ji becomes a festive hub, bustling with street food, games, and musical performances. Don’t miss the opening procession that features Buddhist monks, geisha, and dancers clad in traditional attire.
If you’re in Tokyo in late August, don’t miss the annual Samba Festival, a vibrant event celebrating Japan’s connections with Brazil. It takes place in the area immediately adjacent to Senso-ji, where one can witness dazzling samba dancers gliding in front of Kaminari-mon’s iconic gate.
Around Christmas, Senso-ji hosts a market that exclusively sells hagoita, decorative wooden paddles originally used for games similar to badminton. Today, they serve as lucky amulets and toys.
What to Do Nearby
Tucked into the northeastern districts of Tokyo, Senso-ji is situated in Asakusa, just a few subway stops from the National Museum in Ueno and the bustling anime center of Akihabara.
To better orient yourself, consider joining a free walking tour that explores Senso-ji and the surrounding Asakusa neighborhood. The entire area is very pedestrian-friendly, and it’s home to fantastic restaurants, including Unagi Sansho, known for its eel on rice. If you’re not keen on eating a box of roasted eel, you might enjoy Aoi Marushin, a cozy spot offering sashimi and tempura.
Where to Stay
If you’re on a budget, Nui is a stylish new hostel located in Kuramae, a trendy neighborhood very close to Asakusa. For travelers willing to spend a little more, the Asakusa View Hotel offers luxurious accommodations. This four-star hotel provides breathtaking views of Asakusa and beyond and the stunning sight of Senso-ji temple is a serene way to conclude a day of intense sightseeing.
