Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa Temple)

The basics

Even those with little interest in religious architecture should include this top sight on their Tokyo itinerary. Senso-ji Temple is unlike anything else in the city—and as one of Tokyo’s most popular attractions, it’s on many city sightseeing tours that may also visit the Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower, Imperial Palace Plaza, the Tsukiji Fish Market, and the Nakamise-Dori shopping district. For in-depth experiences in the Asakusa area, opt for walking, rickshaw, or evening food tours.

Things to know before you go

• Senso-ji Temple is a must-see for first-time visitors to Tokyo.

• It’s possible to experience the temple on themed tours of the Asakusa neighborhood or on comprehensive city sightseeing tours.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for a variety of surfaces.

• Don’t forget your wallet—interesting shops dot the area.

How to get there

Senso-ji Temple is in Asakusa, within central Tokyo’s Taito district. The temple is just a few steps away from Asakusa Station, served by Tobu Railways and the Ginza and Asakusa subway lines. Nitemmon Gate is the nearest bus stop on Umamichi dori Street.

When to get there

The temple grounds are always open. The main hall is open from 6am to sunset each day, but many of the shops don’t open until late morning. The temple can get crowded around midday, particularly on weekends, so if you’d like more elbow room, visit before 10am or after 6pm.

The mystery of Kannon

According to local legend, in AD 628 a pair of fishermen discovered a golden statue of the goddess Kannon in the nearby Sumida River. The statue was allegedly enshrined at the site during its construction 17 years later, but it has never been on public display. It’s hard to say whether the ancient image of Kannon exists, but it hasn’t stopped Asakusa from becoming Tokyo’s most visited temple.

What is the history of Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa Temple)?

Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa Temple) was founded in 645 AD and is one of Tokyo's oldest temples. Legend says two fishermen found a Kannon statue in the Sumida River and built the temple as a dedication to the Bodhisattva of compassion. Over centuries, it has become a significant cultural and spiritual site, attracting millions of visitors annually.

How can I get to Senso-ji Temple from central Tokyo?

The nearest station to Senso-ji Temple is Asakusa Station, which is served by the Toei Asakusa subway line, the Ginza subway line, and the Tobu Railway. If traveling from Tokyo Station, take the JR Yamanote Line to Kanda station and switch to the Ginza line, which takes you to Asakusa in around 10 minutes.

What are the main attractions at Senso-ji Temple?

Senso-ji Temple features several prominent attractions, such as the Kaminarimon Gate (also known as the Thunder Gate), which is famous for its giant red lantern. Also you can find Nakamise-dori Shopping Street, the Hōzōmon Gate, and the five-storied pagoda, which makes a fantastic photo opportunity.

What is the best time to visit Senso-ji Temple?

The best time to visit Senso-ji Temple is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak crowds. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends and holidays. As for the time of year, spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) typically boast mild weather and either cherry blossoms or fall foliage.

What festivals are held at Senso-ji Temple?

Senso-ji Temple hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Sanja Matsuri, known for being one of Tokyo's largest and most vibrant festivals. Taking place typically on the third weekend of May, it attracts between 1.5 million and 2 million visitors each year, who come for its street parades, music, and dancing.

What is the significance of the Kaminarimon Gate at Senso-ji Temple?

The Kaminarimon Gate is significant for being the main gateway to Senso-ji Temple. Dating back over 1,000 years, it has been rebuilt multiple times due to fires. The current gate dates back to 1960 and is adorned by a large red lantern and statues of Shinto and Buddhist gods for protection.

Ways to explore

If you only have time to visit one of Tokyo’s Buddhist temples, Senso-ji Temple is the one. Many Tokyo sightseeing tours visit it. Join a walking tour of Asakusa to explore the neighboring Asakusa Shrine, browse the shops, and sample traditional street foods along Nakamise Shopping Street. Alternatively, combine your visit with nearby attractions like Tokyo Skytree for views, Akihabara Electric Town for anime, and the Sumida Riverfront for cherry trees.

Visit with a guide to learn the legend of the ancient temple, which was built in AD 645 after a golden Kannon statue was discovered in the Sumida River.

Accessibility

The temple is wheelchair-accessible with elevator access to the pagoda and accessible restrooms.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, water bottle, coins for donations/offerings

What to wear

Modest clothing suitable for a place of worship; slip-on shoes (you’ll remove them to visit sacred areas)

Not allowed

Entering without completing the purification ritual at the fountain. To do so, use the chozuya (ladel) to wash your left hand, your right hand, and your mouth. Don't swallow the water or contaminate the basin.

Amenities

Restrooms, drinking fountains, restaurants, street food vendors on nearby Nakamise

Address

Senso-ji Temple is in the old district of Asakusa within central Tokyo’s Taito district, and is easy to reach by public transport from anywhere in the city.

Driving

Driving through Asakusa’s narrow, congested streets is no fun, and the nearby parking lots are small and expensive—do as the locals do and use public transportation.

Public transportation

The temple is just a few steps away from Asakusa Station, served by Tobu Railway, and the Ginza and Asakusa subway lines. Nitemmon Gate is the nearest bus stop on Umamichi dori Street.

Best times to visit

While the temple grounds are always open, the Main Hall at Senso-ji is open at 6am or 6:30am to 5pm. Arrive early to avoid the crowds or come after closing to admire the illuminated temple.

Best days to visit

Avoid weekends, as crowds can overwhelm. Go Monday through Thursday to avoid the crush.

Best months to visit

Cherry blossom season (March–April) is peak visitor season in Tokyo; the temple is a short walk from the tree-lined Sumida River. Avoid visiting over the busy Golden Week (spring) or the week after New Year’s.

Special events

The Sensoji Temple area hosts Tokyo’s biggest annual festival, Sanja Matsuri (May), the Asakusa Samba Carnival (August), Hozuki Lantern Market (July), and Hagoita Market (December), marking the year's end.