Sensō-ji Travel Guide

Free Guide: Explore Tokyo's oldest temple, Sensō-ji, a vibrant center of Buddhist worship with iconic gates, traditional shops, and a rich cultural history in Asakusa.

Download the Free PDF guide

A brief summary of Sensō-ji

Explore Tokyo's oldest temple, Sensō-ji, a vibrant center of Buddhist worship with iconic gates, traditional shops, and a rich cultural history in Asakusa.

Sensō-ji, Tokyo's oldest temple, is a vibrant and historically significant Buddhist site in Asakusa. Dedicated to Kannon, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, it attracts millions annually with its iconic Kaminarimon gate, Nakamise shopping street, and serene temple complex.

4.5 Excellent · 75,244 Google reviews

Address: 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032
Phone
Website

Getting there

Public Transport

Sensō-ji is easily accessible via Asakusa Station, which is served by the Ginza Subway Line, Asakusa Subway Line, and Tobu Skytree Line. From Asakusa Station, it's a short walk to the Kaminarimon Gate, the main entrance to Sensō-ji. * **From Tokyo Station:** Take the JR Yamanote Line to Kanda Station (2 minutes, ¥150) and transfer to the Ginza Subway Line for Asakusa (10 minutes, ¥180). * **From Shinjuku Station:** Take the orange JR Chuo Line to Kanda Station (10 minutes, ¥180) and transfer to the Ginza Subway Line for Asakusa (10 minutes, ¥180). A single subway fare in Tokyo typically costs between ¥170 and ¥320, depending on the distance.

Walking

If you are already in the Asakusa area or near the Tokyo Skytree, walking to Sensō-ji is a viable option. * **From Asakusa Station (Ginza Line):** Use Exit 1, which is closest to the Kaminarimon Gate. It's about a 1-minute walk. * **From Asakusa Station (Toei Asakusa Line):** Head for Exit A5. From here, it's about a 1-minute walk to Kaminarimon Gate. * **From Tokyo Skytree:** The walk to Sensō-ji takes approximately 20 minutes. Follow the Sumida River Walk, passing the Asahi Beer headquarters.

Taxi

Taxis are available in Tokyo, but they can be an expensive option. A short taxi ride from a nearby location in Asakusa to Sensō-ji would likely cost between ¥730 and ¥1000, plus any potential waiting time charges. Consider using a taxi as a last resort.

Discover more about Sensō-ji

Overview

Sensō-ji, also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple, is Tokyo's oldest temple, dating back to 645 AD. Legend says that in 628 AD, two fishermen, Hinokuma Hamanari and Hinokuma Takenari, found a statue of Kannon in the Sumida River. The village chief, recognizing its sanctity, enshrined it in a small temple, which evolved into the Sensō-ji we know today.The temple complex is entered through the Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), a symbol of Asakusa. A massive red lantern hangs beneath the gate, flanked by statues of wind and thunder deities. Nakamise-dori, a bustling shopping street over 200 meters long, leads from Kaminarimon to the Hozomon Gate, the temple's inner gate. Here, visitors can find souvenirs, traditional crafts, and local snacks.Beyond the Hozomon Gate lies the main hall, where the statue of Kannon is enshrined, though it remains hidden from public view. A five-story pagoda stands to the side, adding to the temple's architectural beauty. The Asakusa Shrine, built in 1649, is also located nearby. Though much of the temple was destroyed during World War II, it has been reconstructed as a symbol of rebirth and peace. Visitors can also purify themselves at the purification well and enjoy the fragrant smoke from the Jōkōro incense burner, believed to promote good health.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from

Google

By star rating

Guest reviews

Explore Sensō-ji on the map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Sensō-ji, mapped for you.

Get your free copy of our complete guide to Sensō-ji, delivered straight to you.

Everything on this page, from opening hours and how to get there to Eve’s tips and the best time to go, in one PDF you can read offline, print or share.

Already have an account? Sign in