Sensō-ji: A Timeless Journey Through Japan's Spiritual Heritage
Experience the spiritual essence of Tokyo at Sensō-ji, the city's oldest Buddhist temple, rich in history and cultural significance.
Sensō-ji, Tokyo's oldest and most famous Buddhist temple, invites visitors to explore its rich history and vibrant cultural atmosphere. Located in Asakusa, this sacred site is a perfect blend of tradition and spirituality, making it a must-visit for tourists seeking an authentic Japanese experience.
A brief summary to Sensō-ji
- 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, 2 Chome Asakusa, Tokyo, 111-0032, JP
- +813-3842-0181
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience before the crowds arrive.
- Don't miss the chance to try traditional snacks from Nakamise Street, such as ningyo-yaki and melon bread.
- Take part in the temple rituals, like incense burning, to enhance your visit and connect with the local culture.
- Check the festival calendar to experience vibrant events like the Sanja Matsuri, held annually in May.
- Explore the surrounding Asakusa area for additional attractions, including the Tokyo Skytree and Sumida River.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car from Shimotsuke to Sensō-ji, the drive will take approximately 2 hours. Start by getting onto Route 4 from Shimotsuke, heading south. Continue on Route 4 until you reach the junction with the Shuto Expressway (also known as the Tokyo Metropolitan Expressway). Merge onto the Shuto Expressway toward Ueno. Follow the signs toward Asakusa, and take the exit for Asakusa. After exiting, follow the signs to Sensō-ji, which is located at 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032. Note that parking near Sensō-ji can be limited, and you may need to use a nearby paid parking lot.
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Public Transportation - Train
To reach Sensō-ji using public transportation, start by making your way to the nearest train station in Shimotsuke. Take the JR Utsunomiya Line to Ueno Station. From Ueno Station, transfer to the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and take the train heading toward Asakusa Station. Alight at Asakusa Station, which is about a 5-minute walk from Sensō-ji. Once you exit the station, follow the signs toward the temple. You will pass through the famous Nakamise shopping street before reaching the temple entrance.
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Public Transportation - Bus
For those who prefer bus travel, you can take a local bus from Shimotsuke to Utsunomiya Station. From Utsunomiya, transfer to an express bus that goes directly to Tokyo. Make sure to get off at Asakusa. From there, it’s a short walk to Sensō-ji. Keep in mind that bus fares will vary depending on your starting point and the bus service used, so check the local transport website for the most current rates.
Discover more about Sensō-ji
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mr. and Mrs. Yonetaro Otani Statues
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Akaboshi Juzaburo Statue
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Nippon-Daemon
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2-chōme-3-19 Asakusa
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1-chōme-36-4 Asakusa
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Stars Plaza
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hotel MONday Asakusa
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Rokugeishin
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Ryōunkaku Memorial Marker
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Azumbashi Bridge
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Sumidagawa Boat Memorial Monument
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Kototoi Bridge
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Kappabashi Kitchen Tools Street
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Sumida River
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Sakurabashi Bridge
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Unmissable attractions to see
Sensō-ji main hall
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Purification Fountain
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Yōgō-dō Pavilion
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Asakusa Shrine
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Mitsumine-jinja Shrine
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Five-Storied Pagoda
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Nitenmon Gate
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Senso-ji Nitemmon Gate
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Senso-ji Hozomon Gate
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Hōzōmon Gate
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Site of Former Five-Story Pagoda
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Benten-dō
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Suzukien Asakusa
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Asakusa Hanayashiki
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Asakusa Nishi-sandō Shopping Street
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Essential places to dine
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Asakusa kanna
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Kura
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Okonomiyaki Teppanyaki Asakusa Tsurujiro
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Asakusa Sushi Ken
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Asakusa Imahan
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Sky Grill Buffet Musashi
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San-Sada
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Gyoza Bar Keisuke
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Yokoi
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Owariya
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Ninja Experience Cafe Asakusa
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Kudaka Tepannyaki Asakusa
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Sometarō
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
SUZUYA
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Minoriya
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Asakusa Sparkle
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Asakusa Haneda
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Marugoto Nippon
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Tokyo Hotarudō
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MUSASHI JAPAN 浅草店 Knife Shop
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Kannondoori street
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Asakusa Tatsumiya
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Kaminarimon Gate Fukuko-ya
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THE SKYTREE SHOP
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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NinjaBar
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FOS
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Samboa Bar
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BAR WALK
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Kamiya Bar
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Barley Asakusa
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Nemo
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Wolf Bar Asakusa
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BAR SOMETHIN’
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The Auditorium - Japanese Whisky, Cocktail & Good music Bar 上野
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Samurai
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