Senso-ji: Tokyo's Oldest Temple and the Thunder Gate
How to visit Senso-ji in Asakusa: the Thunder Gate, Nakamise shopping street, the story of the temple and the best time to go.
Quick answer
- What it is: Tokyo's oldest temple, dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy.
- Famous for: the Kaminarimon or Thunder Gate, with its giant red lantern, and the Nakamise shopping street.
- Cost: free. The grounds are open at all hours, and the main hall opens early each morning.
- Time needed: 1 to 1.5 hours, longer if you browse the shops.
- Best time: early morning or after dark, when the crowds thin and the buildings are lit up.
Step through the Thunder Gate at Senso-ji and modern Tokyo fades into incense smoke, red lanterns and the chatter of a street market that has served pilgrims for centuries.
Why Senso-ji is a wonder
According to legend, in 628 two fishermen brothers pulled a small golden statue of Kannon from the Sumida River. The temple was founded to enshrine it, making Senso-ji the oldest temple in Tokyo.
The statue itself is never shown to the public. The temple has been rebuilt many times, most recently after the air raids of 1945, and remains one of the busiest places of worship in Japan.
From the Thunder Gate to the main hall
The Kaminarimon, or Thunder Gate, is guarded by statues of the gods of wind and thunder and hung with an enormous red lantern.
Beyond it, Nakamise-dori is a lane of around 90 small shops selling snacks, fans, souvenirs and sweets. It leads to the Hozomon gate, the main hall and a five-storey pagoda.
Walking through Senso-ji
| Spot | What you see | Time (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Kaminarimon | The giant red lantern and guardian statues | 10 minutes |
| Nakamise-dori | Snack stalls and traditional souvenirs | 20 to 30 minutes |
| Hozomon gate | Huge straw sandals hanging on its back | 5 minutes |
| Main hall and incense burner | Prayers, incense smoke and fortunes | 20 minutes |
| Five-storey pagoda | Best seen lit up at night | 10 minutes |
When to go
- Early morning: peaceful, with locals praying before work.
- After dark: the shops close, but the temple is beautifully lit and much quieter.
- Sanja Matsuri: one of Tokyo's liveliest festivals, held in May at the neighbouring Asakusa Shrine.
- New Year: huge crowds for the first temple visit of the year.
Our tip: Try drawing an omikuji fortune. If you get a bad one, tie it to the racks so the bad luck stays at the temple instead of following you home.
Getting there
- By subway: Asakusa Station on the Ginza Line or Toei Asakusa Line is a few minutes' walk away.
- By train: Tobu trains also stop at Asakusa, handy for trips to Nikko.
- By river: sightseeing boats on the Sumida River connect Asakusa with other parts of Tokyo.
Temple etiquette
- Waft a little incense smoke over yourself at the burner. It is said to bring good health.
- At the main hall, offer a coin, bow and pray quietly. There is no clapping at Buddhist temples.
- Avoid eating while walking along Nakamise. Eat beside the shop where you bought your snack.
- Be patient in the crowds, especially on weekends.
Frequently asked questions
Is Senso-ji free to visit?
Yes. There is no charge to enter the temple grounds or the main hall.
What time does Senso-ji open?
The grounds are open at all hours. The main hall opens early in the morning and closes in the late afternoon.
What is the best time to visit Senso-ji?
Early morning or after dark, when the crowds are smaller and the buildings are lit up.
How do I get to Senso-ji?
Take the Ginza Line or Toei Asakusa Line to Asakusa Station, a few minutes' walk from the Thunder Gate.
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Row a boat beneath a waterfall in a gorge of volcanic cliffs.
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