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Years ago, I visited Sensoji Temple with my family. We wore kimonos and took lots of photos here. When I returned to Tokyo years later, I headed out alone to visit the temple while my family was still asleep.
Sensoji Temple isn't very crowded early in the morning. I prayed for a safe and smooth family trip and also drew an omikuji. I'd heard that Sensoji has a higher chance of drawing bad luck than other temples, so I was relieved to get good luck!
Sensoji Temple is basically a must-visit photo spot in Tokyo. It feels like if you haven’t taken a picture at Kaminarimon Gate, you haven’t really been to Tokyo. The temple is huge and impressive, and it’s absolutely packed with tourists. There are also tons of people wearing kimono, and of course I had to join in too. I heard the omikuji fortunes here are really accurate.
The first time I went to Sensoji, my family and I somehow stayed for a full seven hours. We shopped, bought souvenirs, and had some amazing Taisho matcha ice cream. Time just flew by, and looking back now, I honestly don’t know how we managed to stay that long.
Of course, I also drew an omikuji. But two sticks accidentally came out, and I remembered both numbers. The first one turned out to be bad luck, so I quietly pushed it back in, haha. Then I opened the drawer for the second one, and although it wasn’t bad luck, all I could think about was that first bad fortune. I was afraid my mom would laugh at me, so I just pretended I didn’t see it.
When I went again the second time, I thought, whatever, good or bad, I’ll just accept it. It’s not a big deal. Plus, this time I was by myself!
I ended up drawing number 89, and I was like, 89? Is it secretly insulting me? But when I opened it, it was actually great luck! The fortune said I was like an unpolished gem and that I’d meet someone who would help me in the future. I was so happy in that moment. I was just about to enter the workforce and was honestly pretty anxious, so reading those words felt like a real confidence boost. I brought the great-luck fortune home to keep, and also to show it off a little〜🤭
It’s only been three months since then, so I haven’t met any special benefactor yet. But I heard omikuji fortunes are good for one year, so I hope when I look back a year from now, it really will have come true. I also hope I’ll have another chance to visit Tokyo again by then.
Sensoji Temple really is one of Tokyo’s classic landmarks! No matter how many times I’ve been, seeing that huge red lantern still makes me admire how impressive it is.
The place is packed every day with visitors from all over the world.
During the day, Kaminarimon and Sensoji Temple are always packed with tourists, so I didn’t expect the nighttime atmosphere to feel completely different.
Without the constant crowds, the lighting made everything feel especially quiet and atmospheric. Walking slowly through Kaminarimon and exploring Sensoji Temple without having to rush past crowds made it even easier to appreciate the beauty of this historic temple.
Sensoji Temple has a rich historical and cultural atmosphere. Kaminarimon Gate and Nakamise Shopping Street are lively and full of character. Besides visiting the temple, you can enjoy local food and shop for souvenirs. It’s a must-visit spot in Tokyo.
Sensoji Temple is definitely worth visiting. Don’t spend too much time at the street stalls near the entrance right away—the temple itself is the real highlight. It has a striking presence that really lets you feel a sense of awe, and almost every time I go, it’s packed with people.
It was a very unforgettable trip.
If you're visiting Tokyo, I highly recommend staying in Asakusa. You can appreciate a different side of Sensoji Temple there.
In the early morning, before the tourists arrive, you can visit and pray at a relaxed pace. At night, after the crowds have gone, it's completely different from the daytime bustle. Sensoji Temple has a quiet, wabi-sabi kind of beauty in the evening.
Kaminarimon is really impressive. The moment you see the big red lantern, you know you’ve arrived in Asakusa.
There’s also a small Inari shrine nearby. It’s tiny and easy to miss, but the fox guardian statues are adorable.
It’s really easy to get to. You’re basically there as soon as you come out of the subway, so it’s easy to fit into your itinerary. Besides visiting the temple, the surrounding area is also really fun to explore, so it’s worth setting aside a little extra time.
