Let me introduce you to Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Japan. This is one of the largest and most famous temples in the country, as well as the oldest temple in Tokyo. Founded in 628 A.D., Sensoji Temple is a must-visit historical and cultural site, drawing millions of visitors every year.
The Journey to Sensoji Temple
When you visit Sensoji Temple for the first time, you’ll most likely be dropped off near Nakamise Shopping Street, a lively pathway leading up to the temple. For two full blocks, you’ll find a variety of shops selling souvenirs, traditional crafts, and sweet treats—perfect for grabbing a memento from your time in Japan. You’ll see everything from hand-painted fans to delicate porcelain, as well as delicious snacks like freshly made rice crackers and traditional red bean pastries.
The Legend Behind Sensoji
Sensoji Temple is dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. According to legend, in the year 628, two fishermen discovered a small statue of Kannon in the Sumida River. Recognizing its spiritual significance, a temple was soon built to honor the goddess. Over the centuries, it has remained an important site for worship and cultural heritage.
Entering Through the Kaminarimon Gate
One of the first landmarks you’ll see when approaching the temple is the famous Kaminarimon Gate, or "Thunder Gate." This massive red gate is one of Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks. Hanging in the center is an enormous red lantern with the kanji characters for "Thunder Gate" written on it. Visitors from all over the world stop here to take photos—it’s one of the most recognizable images of Tokyo.
Nakamise Shopping Street
Beyond Kaminarimon, you’ll walk through Nakamise Shopping Street. This long, bustling street is lined with vendors selling everything from handcrafted souvenirs to traditional Japanese sweets. It’s a great place to experience a slice of old Tokyo while picking up gifts for friends and family back home.
The Main Temple Grounds
Once you reach the temple grounds, you’ll see the Hondo, or main hall of Sensoji Temple. The current structure was rebuilt in 1958 after the original was destroyed during World War II. In fact, many famous historical sites across Japan—temples, castles, and entire city districts—were reconstructed after the war as part of the country’s economic recovery.
Fortune-Telling at Sensoji
A fun experience at Sensoji is drawing an O-mikuji fortune. For a small fee, you shake a metal container until a numbered stick falls out. You then match your number to a corresponding drawer to retrieve your fortune paper. The fortunes range from very good to very bad. If you receive bad luck, don’t worry—you can tie the paper to a designated rack on the temple grounds to leave the misfortune behind. Personally, I always seem to draw the very best fortune, so if you’re around me, I might end up taking all the luck. Sorry about that!
Nearby Attractions
Sensoji Temple is located in Asakusa, on the eastern side of Tokyo. It’s not too far from Akihabara, so if you're spending a couple of days exploring the anime and gaming district, you can easily make a trip to Asakusa as well. Other nearby attractions include Ueno Zoo, which is just a couple of train stops away. If you're looking for Tokyo’s modern nightlife, keep in mind that Sensoji is on the opposite side of the city from places like Shinjuku and Shibuya.
Plan Your Visit
If you ever find yourself in Tokyo, make sure to visit Sensoji Temple in Asakusa. Maybe when you're on a tour with me to Japan. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just experiencing the energy of an ancient Buddhist temple in the heart of the city, it’s well worth the trip. Take some time to explore the surrounding area, try some traditional snacks, and immerse yourself in this incredible piece of Japanese history.
So check it out next time you're in Japan!