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Sensoji Temple

Ⓒ浅草寺

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Sensoji Temple

One of Japan’s most frequented destinations! Over 1300 years of history here at the oldest temple in Tokyo.

4.73 75

Last update :
Supervised by :  浅草寺

This iconic destination in Asakusa sees as many as 30 million visitors each year. It stands as a well-loved mainstay in Tokyo, all while hosting a number of annual traditions like the first temple visit at New Years, Setsubun and more across the year.

From the main Kaminari-mon or “Thunder Gate” known as an icon of Asakusa, you’ll find a larger-than-life, red lantern suspended above, while the guardian statues of Fujin (wind god) and Raijin (thunder god) flank the gate at both sides. From the gate up to the main hall is a 250m stretch known as Nakamise-Dori, lined with a number of souvenir and food shops.

Just steps in front of the main hall you’ll find a hub for burning incense. Many believe that the incense smoke itself can aid in healing any ailments, making it a common stop for visitors looking to waft the smoke over any offending areas.

Highlights

  • Snap a photo to commemorate your trip in front of Kaminarimon, the iconic temple gate of Asakusa!
  • Waft a plume of incense for a healing boost over any physical ailments.
  • After visiting the temple, enjoy a stroll down the sprawling shopping streets of Nakamise-Dori.

Photos

  • Sensoji Temple, Kaminarimon Gate © Sensoji Temple

    Sensoji Temple, Kaminarimon Gate © Sensoji Temple

  • Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Shopping Street © Sensoji Temple

    Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Shopping Street © Sensoji Temple

  • Sensoji Temple, Main Hall © Sensoji Temple

    Sensoji Temple, Main Hall © Sensoji Temple

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Could you inform me about the accessibility here?
A

To your left facing the main hall, there is an elevator available for those who have difficulty with stairs. Also, there are accessible toilets located to the right of the Treasure House Gate and at the back of the main hall. They are equipped with handrails for wheelchairs, changing tables, and baby chairs.

Q

Are we not able to see the principal image of Buddha?
A

The principal image of Buddha and the standing image of Buddha in front are hidden Buddhas, therefore they cannot be viewed for worship. However, you can catch a glimpse of the standing image of Buddha once a year, specifically at 2 p.m. on December 13th.

Q

Is it true that there are many 'bad luck' fortunes in the omikuji?
A

It's often said that "Sensoji Temple has many bad luck omikuji", but that’s to be expected with the culture of omikuji. If you do pull a bad luck fortune, fret not, because it’s believed that living sincerely is enough to turn your luck for the better.

Reviews

75

Some reviews are AI-translated.

  • Mei
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    I had excitedly planned to take a photo with the huge lantern at Sensoji Temple's Kaminarimon Gate, but the crowd was absolutely overflowing. After waiting forever without finding an opening, I finally decided to give up!

    I was a little disappointed that I couldn't get the photo, but then I realized that casually taking pictures of the scenery around the temple was wonderful too. The vermilion buildings stood out against the blue sky, and every quick shot of the details in the eaves and lanterns was so beautiful and calming. Looking at the serene, elegant atmosphere in the photos made me feel completely relaxed and at ease. That's travel—going with the flow can be a wonderful reward in itself!

  • Eddie
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    📸 Asakusa in May, Kaminarimon in the sunlight

    On this trip to Tokyo, I was looking forward to the scenery in Asakusa the most. The May sunlight was just right—warm but not harsh, illuminating this historic corner of the city.

    Standing beneath the famous giant Kaminarimon lantern and looking at its red body and gold lettering, I felt as though I could sense the long history and sacredness of this place. Although it was crowded, everyone had a smile on their face. This place truly is full of energy and joy.

    In Asakusa, you can not only pray and worship, but also try all kinds of traditional Japanese snacks. Walking along Nakamise Shopping Street, the aromas from the shops and the wide variety of souvenirs were almost overwhelming.

    It’s a great place for the whole family to visit. If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, remember to add Asakusa’s Kaminarimon to your itinerary! ✨

  • 李婕妤
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    Sensoji Temple was packed with people, but exploring among the traditional buildings was truly worthwhile. Kikus Suido's “Love Fortune Bear Skewer” on Nakamise Shopping Street was super eye-catching, featuring adorable bear-shaped monaka, heart-shaped castella cakes, and sweet, fresh strawberry daifuku. It had a delightful variety of flavors and was so comforting. You can even read your fortune after finishing it, adding another romantic memory to this Tokyo trip!

  • WANG
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    In front of Kaminarimon Gate, the huge red “Kaminarimon” lantern hanging high above and the bustling crowds immediately come into view, creating an impressive sight.

    After passing through the gate, you enter the lively Nakamise Shopping Street, lined with all kinds of traditional snacks, ningyo-yaki, and beautiful souvenirs, making it hard to stop browsing as you walk.

    Near the main hall and the majestic five-story pagoda, you can not only feel the serene history of this ancient temple, but also capture the unique view of the traditional vermilion buildings and the modern Tokyo Skytree in the same frame.

    I highly recommend including Sensoji Temple in an in-depth walking tour of Tokyo. Whether you come to worship, experience the traditional warmth of the old downtown area, or capture striking classic scenes, it will definitely leave you with wonderful memories that last a lifetime!

  • Ming Yu
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    Sensoji Temple, Tokyo's oldest temple, bustles with crowds during the day, but after it is illuminated at night, it reveals another side that is serene and magnificent!

    Walking through the temple grounds at night, the imposing Hozomon Gate and powerful Nio guardian statues look especially dramatic under the lights. The towering five-story pagoda lights up the night sky, creating unparalleled classical beauty and a sacred atmosphere. Away from the daytime noise and crowds, Sensoji Temple at night is perfect for a leisurely stroll, taking commemorative photos, and quietly experiencing the refined beauty and awe inspired by this ancient temple with a thousand-year history!

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Details

Name in Japanese
浅草寺
Official Name
Kinryuzan Sensoji Temple
Founded
628 AD
Postal Code
111-0032
Address
2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Telephone
03-3842-0181 (9:00 am to 4:30 pm, excluding Sundays and Holidays)
Admission
Free
Closed
No holidays
Hours
6:00 am to 5:00 pm (Apr.-Sept.); 6:30 am to 5:00 pm (Oct.-Mar.)
Access
1) About 5 minutes on foot from Asakusa Station on the Tobu Skytree Line
2) About 5 minutes on foot from Asakusa Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line
3) About 5 minutes on foot from Asakusa Station on the Tsukuba Express
4) About 5 minutes on foot from the A4 Exit of Asakusa Station on the Toei Subway Asakusa Line
Official Website
Official Website(English)
Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto Chubu Hokuriku Kansai Chugoku Shikoku Kyushu Okinawa