The Majestic Kaminarimon Gate: A Gateway to Tokyo's Rich Heritage
Discover the iconic Kaminarimon Gate, a stunning gateway to Senso-ji Temple, and immerse yourself in Tokyo's rich cultural heritage.
Kaminarimon, known as the Thunder Gate, is a stunning entrance to the famous Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo. This impressive structure, painted in vivid reds and adorned with a colossal lantern, serves as a symbol of the city's deep cultural and historical roots. As you approach the gate, you'll be greeted by the sight of two fierce guardian statues, Raijin and Fujin, who are believed to protect the temple and its visitors. The bustling atmosphere surrounding Kaminarimon is a feast for the senses, with street vendors selling traditional snacks and souvenirs, creating a vibrant tapestry of local life. As the gateway to one of Tokyo's oldest temples, Kaminarimon offers not only a glimpse into Japan's rich spiritual heritage but also a gateway to explore the enchanting streets of Asakusa. Visitors can stroll down Nakamise Street, where they can indulge in local delicacies and shop for unique crafts, making the journey from the gate to the temple itself a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you're capturing photographs of the majestic gate or immersing yourself in the spiritual ambiance of Senso-ji, Kaminarimon is an essential stop for any traveler seeking to understand the essence of Tokyo's cultural landscape.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Don't forget to try the traditional snacks available on Nakamise Street.
- Take your time to admire the intricate details of the gate and the guardian statues.
- Check the local calendar for festivals, as Kaminarimon hosts various cultural events throughout the year.
A brief summary to Kaminarimon
- 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, 2 Chome Asakusa, Tokyo, 111-0032, JP
- +813-3842-0181
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Walking
If you are already near Asakusa Station, exit the station and head towards the Kaminarimon Gate. Follow the signs pointing to Senso-ji Temple, which is located just a short walk away. Once you exit the station, you will need to walk along Asakusa's Nakamise Street. This street leads directly to Kaminarimon, and it is lined with shops selling traditional snacks and souvenirs. Keep walking straight until you reach the large red gate, Kaminarimon, at the entrance of Senso-ji Temple. The total walking distance is approximately 5-10 minutes depending on your starting point.
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Subway
If you are coming from another area in Tokyo, take the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and get off at Asakusa Station. Once you arrive, take Exit 1, which will lead you directly onto Asakusa's main street. From there, follow the directions provided above to reach Kaminarimon. The subway fare from central Tokyo to Asakusa is usually around 200-300 yen, depending on your starting station.
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Bus
If you prefer to take a bus, you can catch a bus to Asakusa from various locations around Tokyo. Look for the Toei Bus or other local buses that have stops at Asakusa. Once you arrive at the bus stop, follow the signs to Senso-ji Temple. It is a short walk from the bus stop to Kaminarimon, generally taking around 5 minutes. Bus fares in Tokyo typically range from 210 yen to 500 yen based on distance.
Attractions Nearby to Kaminarimon
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Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
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Izumiya Honten
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Kan'non-dōri
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Nakamise-dori Street
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Cat Cafe Calaugh
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Gyōza no Ōsama
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Asakusa's Mameshiba Cafe
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Sushi Making Tokyo Cooking Class in Asakusa(寿司握り体験)
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Gonpachi Asakusa Azumabashi
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sora-chan cat photo spot
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Asakusa kaminarimon Gate
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Cat Cafe MONTA
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Tokyo Cruise
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Asakusa Menchi
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Asakusa Public Hall
Landmarks nearby to Kaminarimon
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Akaboshi Juzaburo Statue
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Nippon-Daemon
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Stars Plaza
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Sumida River
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Rokugeishin
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Mr. and Mrs. Yonetaro Otani Statues
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Ryōunkaku Memorial Marker
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Sumidagawa Boat Memorial Monument
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Asakusa Hisago-dori Shopping Street
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hotel MONday Asakusa
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Kappabashi Kitchen Tools Street
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KAIKA Tokyo by The Share Hotels
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Tokyo Skytree Observation Deck
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Tokyo Skytree
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Oshinari Bridge