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Hōzōmon Gate: Guardian of Sensō-ji Temple

Discover Tokyo's iconic Hōzōmon Gate at Senso-ji Temple, a cultural treasure guarded by towering statues and steeped in history.

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The Hōzōmon Gate is the impressive inner gate to Tokyo's oldest temple, Sensō-ji. This two-story structure houses treasured Buddhist scriptures and is guarded by imposing Niō statues, offering visitors a glimpse into the temple's rich history and spiritual significance.

A brief summary to Hōzōmon Gate

  • Monday 6:30 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 6:30 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 6:30 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 6:30 am-5 pm
  • Friday 6:30 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 6:30 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 6:30 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and experience a more peaceful atmosphere.
  • Take time to appreciate the intricate details of the Niō statues and the massive waraji sandals on the gate's north side.
  • Capture a photo of the iconic red chōchin lantern, a symbol of Asakusa, hanging in the center of the gate.
  • Explore Nakamise-dori, the shopping street leading to the gate, for traditional snacks and souvenirs.
  • Consider visiting during the evening when the gate is beautifully illuminated, creating a magical ambiance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Asakusa Station, follow the signs towards Sensō-ji Temple. Exit the station and walk along Nakamise-dori, a vibrant shopping street filled with traditional crafts and snacks. Continue through the Kaminarimon Gate, with its iconic red lantern, and you'll soon reach the Hōzōmon Gate at the entrance to the main temple grounds. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes and is free of charge.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Toei Bus from Asakusa Station (東武浅草駅前) to the Nitenmon stop (二天門), which is a short walk from Sensō-ji Temple. The bus ride takes about 2 minutes and costs ¥210. From the bus stop, walk towards the temple entrance and you will see the Hōzōmon Gate.

  • Taxi

    From Asakusa Station, a taxi ride to Sensō-ji Temple is a quick option. The taxi will drop you off near the temple entrance, from where you can easily walk to the Hōzōmon Gate. The ride typically takes only a few minutes, with an estimated cost of ¥1,300 - ¥1,600.

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Discover more about Hōzōmon Gate

The Hōzōmon Gate, meaning "Treasure-House Gate," is the inner gate leading to Sensō-ji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo. Serving as both a grand entrance and a protective barrier, it stands as a testament to the temple's enduring legacy. The Hōzōmon's history dates back to 942 AD, though the current structure is a 1964 reconstruction following damage from war. As a two-story gate (nijūmon), the Hōzōmon houses many of Sensō-ji's treasures in its second story, including treasured sutras. The first story features two imposing 5.45-meter-tall Niō statues, the guardian deities of the Buddha, which give the gate its original name, Niōmon. These statues stand on either side of the gate’s south face. The gate also displays three large lanterns, including a prominent red chōchin lantern that weighs over 400 kg and bears the name of Kobunachō. On the north face are two massive waraji (straw sandals), each 4.5 meters long and weighing 400 kg. Passing through the Hōzōmon is a symbolic purification, preparing visitors to approach the main hall. The gate marks a transition from the lively Nakamise-dori shopping street to the temple's serene grounds. The Hōzōmon is a highlight of Sensō-ji, offering a blend of architectural grandeur, cultural symbolism, and spiritual significance.

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