Sensō-ji: Tokyo's Ancient Temple of Mercy
Explore Tokyo's oldest temple, Sensō-ji, with its iconic gates, vibrant shopping street, and serene temple grounds in the heart of Asakusa.
Sensō-ji, Tokyo's oldest temple, is a vibrant Buddhist site in Asakusa. Founded in 645 AD, it's dedicated to Kannon, the Bodhisattva of compassion. The iconic Kaminarimon gate, Nakamise shopping street, and five-story pagoda create a captivating cultural experience.
A brief summary to Sensō-ji
- 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, 2 Chome Asakusa, Tokyo, 111-0032, JP
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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 late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
- Take cash, as many shops in Nakamise-dori may not accept credit cards.
- Try your luck with Omikuji (fortune paper), but don't be discouraged if you get a bad fortune – it's common at Sensō-ji.
- Rub the smoke from the large incense burner onto yourself for good health.
- Check out the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center across from Kaminarimon Gate for free views of Sensō-ji and Tokyo Skytree.
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Getting There
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Walking
Sensō-ji is a short walk from multiple stations in Asakusa. From Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Toei Asakusa Line, or Tobu Railway Asakusa Station, head towards Exit 1. Kaminarimon Gate, the main entrance to Sensō-ji, is about a 1-minute walk from Exit 1. From Tsukuba Express Asakusa Station, take Exit A1 and walk along Kokusai Dori for about 5 minutes, then turn left at Kaminarimon Street. The temple will be on your left. Navigating Nakamise-dori can be crowded, especially on weekends. Wheelchair users may find it easier to use the street behind the left-hand side of Nakamise. The main hall is accessible by elevator.
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Public Transport
To reach Sensō-ji via public transport, take the Ginza Subway Line, Asakusa Subway Line, or Tobu Railway to Asakusa Station. From Tokyo Station, take the JR Yamanote Line to Kanda Station (2 minutes, 150 yen) and transfer to the Ginza Subway Line for Asakusa (10 minutes, 180 yen). From Shinjuku Station, take the orange JR Chuo Line to Kanda Station (10 minutes, 180 yen) and transfer to the Ginza Subway Line for Asakusa (10 minutes, 180 yen). From Asakusa Station, Sensō-ji is a short walk. Follow the signs to Kaminarimon Gate, which marks the entrance to the temple.
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Parking
Sensō-ji Temple does not have its own parking facilities. Visitors are encouraged to use nearby coin-operated parking lots. The Kaminarimon Underground Parking Lot is a popular choice due to its proximity. The Kaminarimon Underground Parking Lot operates from 7:00 am to 11:00 pm. Parking fees are 200 yen for the first 30 minutes, then 100 yen per 15 minutes. Weekday daytime rates are capped at 2,400 yen for 6 to 12 hours. Overnight parking is possible, but entry and exit are not allowed outside of operating hours. Vehicle size restrictions apply: Vehicles must not exceed 5.3m in length, 2.0m in width, or 2.1m in height.
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