Sensō-ji: Tokyo's Ancient Temple of Mercy

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Explore Tokyo's oldest temple, Sensō-ji, with its iconic gates, traditional shopping street, and serene temple complex in the heart of Asakusa.

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Sensō-ji

Sensō-ji, Tokyo's oldest temple, is a vibrant and historically significant Buddhist site in Asakusa. Founded in 645 AD, it's dedicated to Kannon, the Bodhisattva of compassion. The temple complex features the iconic Kaminarimon gate, Nakamise shopping street, Hozomon Gate, a five-story pagoda, and the main hall, offering visitors a glimpse into Tokyo's rich cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Sensō-ji

2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, 2 Chome Asakusa, Tokyo, 111-0032, JP
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Sensō-ji.

Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the largest crowds.
Take time to explore Nakamise street for unique souvenirs and local snacks.
Try your luck with an 'omikuji' (fortune slip) for 100 yen, but don't be discouraged if you get a bad one – you can tie it to a designated post to change your destiny.
Rub the smoke from the large incense burner onto any painful areas of your body, as it is believed to have healing properties.
Check out the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center across from Kaminarimon Gate for free panoramic views of Sensoji and Tokyo Skytree.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Asakusa Station, served by the Ginza Subway Line, Asakusa Subway Line, and Tobu Railway, Sensō-ji Temple is a short walk away. From the Ginza Line, use Exit 1; from the Toei Asakusa Line, use Exit A5; and from the Tobu Skytree Line, use the Main Exit. The temple is within a 1-5 minute walk from any of these exits. Subway fares in Tokyo range from 180 to 330 yen depending on the distance.
Walking

If you are already in the Asakusa area or near Tokyo Skytree, walking to Sensō-ji is a great option. From Tokyo Skytree, the walk is approximately 20 minutes. From Ueno Park, the walk is about 30-35 minutes, passing through Kappabashi, Tokyo's kitchen street. Walking allows you to explore the surrounding neighborhood and experience the local atmosphere.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Asakusa, especially on the west side of Tobu Asakusa Station. A short taxi ride from Asakusa Station to Sensō-ji costs approximately 1,300 - 1,600 yen. The standard taxi fare starts at 410 yen for the first 1,052 meters, with an additional 80 yen for every 237 meters thereafter. Note that there may be a 20% surcharge for rides between 10:00 PM and 5:00 AM.

Discover more about Sensō-ji

Sensō-ji, also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple, is Tokyo's oldest temple, with a history stretching back to 628 AD. Legend says that two brothers, while fishing in the Sumida River, discovered a golden statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. Despite returning the statue to the river, it kept returning to them. Recognizing the statue's sanctity, the village chief enshrined it, remodeling his home into a small temple for villagers to worship Kannon.The temple complex is accessed through the Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), the outer gate of Sensō-ji and a symbol of Asakusa. The gate houses statues of the gods of wind and thunder. Passing through Kaminarimon, visitors enter Nakamise, a shopping street stretching over 200 meters. This street is lined with traditional souvenir shops offering local snacks, yukata, and folding fans.At the end of Nakamise stands the Hozomon (Treasure House Gate), the inner gate of the temple. The current steel-reinforced concrete structure was built in 1964 after the previous gate was destroyed in the Tokyo air raids of 1945. The upper story stores Sensō-ji's treasured sutras. Beyond the Hozomon Gate are the main hall and a five-storied pagoda. The main hall, or Kannon-do, enshrines the statue of Kannon, which has been hidden from public view since 645 AD. The five-storied pagoda, rebuilt in 1973, is said to contain some of the ashes of Buddha.Sensō-ji has been rebuilt several times throughout its history due to fires and natural disasters. The temple was completely destroyed in the firebombing of Tokyo in 1945 but was rebuilt as a symbol of rebirth and peace. Today, Sensō-ji remains an important center of religious faith, drawing millions of worshippers every year. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, admire the architecture, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Asakusa.