Senso-ji
浅草寺
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Tokyo's Oldest Temple
Senso-ji is a historic shrine and temple in Asakusa, Tokyo. 8 traveler-shot videos let you feel the atmosphere and catch the highlights before you go.
Senso-ji in Asakusa is Tokyo's oldest temple, founded in 645 and dedicated to the Bodhisattva Kannon. Visitors enter through the great Kaminarimon ('Thunder Gate') with its giant red lantern, then walk the Nakamise shopping street — lined with stalls of traditional snacks and souvenirs — to the soaring main hall and five-storey pagoda. As the heart of Tokyo's old downtown (shitamachi), it blends centuries of faith with the lively atmosphere of a festival every day of the year.
Best Season
- JanNew Year Crowds
- MaySanja Matsuri
- JulSumida River Fireworks
- NovAutumn Tori-no-ichi
Lively all year, Asakusa is especially vibrant during the Sanja Matsuri in May and the summer fireworks. The main hall grounds are open at all hours, and evenings offer beautifully lit gates and pagoda.
History & Culture
A Statue from the River
By legend, two fishermen found a tiny statue of Kannon in the Sumida River in 628; the temple was established to enshrine it, and has drawn pilgrims ever since.
Heart of the Shitamachi
Under the patronage of the Tokugawa shogunate, Asakusa flourished as Edo's great entertainment and pilgrimage district, a role it still plays today.
2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032
- By Asakusa Stn (Metro / Toei / Tobu)
Main hall 6:00–17:00 (grounds always open)
Free
Hours and fees are a guide and may change — please check official information before your visit.
