Asakusa Shrine, Tokyo Travel Guide

4.4 (4222)

Discover Tokyo's spiritual side at Asakusa Shrine, a peaceful Shinto sanctuary honoring the founders of Senso-ji Temple and preserving ancient traditions.

Home
Travel Guides
Japan
Tokyo
Asakusa Shrine

Nestled next to the bustling Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Shrine offers a serene escape into Shinto tradition in the heart of Tokyo. Known as Sanja-sama, it honors the three founders of Senso-ji, providing a unique cultural experience.

A brief summary to Asakusa Shrine

2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, 2 Chome Asakusa, Tokyo, 111-0032, JP
Click to display
Click to display

Monday 9 am-4 pm
Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
Thursday 9 am-4 pm
Friday 9 am-4 pm
Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Asakusa Shrine.

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and experience a more serene atmosphere.
Check out the husband-wife pair of komainu (guardian dogs) at the entrance, a great spot to pray for good relationships.
If visiting in May, don't miss the Sanja Matsuri, one of Tokyo's most famous festivals.
Take a moment to appreciate the shrine's architecture, which survived the WWII air raids.
Purchase a card charm, which, according to priestesses, allows you to carry the protection of the gods with you.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Tokyo Tower-Camera Stand

Momiji Waterfall

Ninja Trick House In Tokyo

Yoyogi Park Clock Tower

Islamic Alley

Explore Asakusa Shrine on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Asakusa Shrine, mapped for you.

Unlock the Best of Asakusa Shrine

Buy tickets

No tickets available

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Getting There

Walking

From Asakusa Station, exit towards Senso-ji Temple. Pass through the Kaminarimon gate and walk along Nakamise-dori, the shopping street leading to Senso-ji. Once at Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Shrine is located to the east, marked by a stone torii gate.
Public Transport

From Asakusa Station (various lines), take the Toei Bus (都08) from 東武浅草駅前 bus stop to 二天門 bus stop. The ride is short, and from the bus stop, Asakusa Shrine is a short walk away. The fare is ¥210.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available around Asakusa Station. A short taxi ride from the station to Asakusa Shrine will cost approximately ¥730-930, depending on traffic and distance. Taxis can be hailed on the street or found at taxi stands.

Discover more about Asakusa Shrine

Asakusa Shrine, or Sanja-sama as it's affectionately known, stands as a testament to Tokyo's rich spiritual heritage. Located adjacent to the famed Senso-ji Temple, this Shinto shrine provides a tranquil contrast to its lively neighbor. Built in 1649 by Tokugawa Iemitsu, the shrine commemorates the three men who, according to legend, founded Senso-ji Temple in 628 AD. These men – two fishermen brothers, Hinokuma Hamanari and Hinokuma Takenari, and a village leader, Haji no Nakatomo – are enshrined here as deities. The story tells of the brothers finding a statue of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of compassion, in the Sumida River, leading them to establish a temple to worship her.Asakusa Shrine offers a glimpse into traditional Shinto architecture and practices. Unlike many structures in the area, it survived the air raids of World War II, making it one of the oldest buildings in Tokyo and an Important Cultural Property. The shrine is an example of the gongen-zukuri style. Visitors can explore the grounds, admire the sacred beasts, and experience the peaceful atmosphere.The shrine comes alive during the Sanja Matsuri, one of Tokyo's largest and most vibrant festivals, held annually in May. This lively event features parades, traditional music, and the carrying of portable shrines (mikoshi) through the streets, celebrating the history and spirit of Asakusa.