Sensoji Temple is just a short walk from Asakusa Station, which is served by the Ginza Line, Asakusa Line, and Tobu Railway.





Senso-ji Temple
Sensoji Temple (浅草寺, Sensōji)—also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple—is Tokyo’s oldest and most revered Buddhist temple, with roots dating back to the year 645. Its founding is steeped in legend: two fishermen are said to have discovered a statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, in the nearby Sumida River. Each time they returned it to the water, the statue miraculously reappeared—a divine sign that inspired the local community to build a temple on that very spot. Although much of the complex was destroyed during World War II, it was faithfully rebuilt in the postwar years and continues to stand as a powerful symbol of faith, resilience, and tradition. Today, Sensoji is not only a sacred religious site but also a cornerstone of Tokyo’s cultural identity, attracting millions of worshippers and tourists each year.
Visitors begin their journey at the iconic Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), with its massive red lantern and fierce guardian statues marking the entrance to the temple grounds. From there, they stroll down Nakamise-dori, a lively shopping street that has served temple-goers for centuries, lined with stalls offering traditional treats like ningyo-yaki (sweet cakes), senbei (rice crackers), yukata, folding fans, and handcrafted souvenirs. At the end of Nakamise-dori stands the majestic Hozomon Gate, beyond which lie the main hall and a striking five-story pagoda. Just a few steps away is Asakusa Shrine, built in 1649 and dedicated to the fishermen who discovered the sacred statue. The temple area hosts major events throughout the year, including the vibrant Sanja Matsuri in May—one of Tokyo’s biggest and liveliest festivals—as well as the Asakusa Samba Carnival in August and the traditional Hagoita-Ichi (battledore fair) in December. With its rich blend of history, spirituality, and local color, Sensoji offers an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of old Tokyo.
Hours and Fees
- Opening hours
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Main hall:
6:00 to 17:00 (from 6:30 from October to March)
Temple grounds:
Always open
- Closed
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No closing days
- Entrance fee
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Main hall:
500 yen
- Tours
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Guided tours of Senso-ji Temple, led by experienced guides who share the rich history and legends of Tokyo’s oldest temple, start at just $60. These tours provide deeper insight into one of Japan’s most spiritual and culturally significant sites.
See tours →
Getting there
Resources
Events
Nearby
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Asakusa Shrine — 10-minute walk
Historic shrine, Sanja Matsuri festival
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Kaminarimon (Kaminari Gate) — 10-minute walk
Historical gate, symbol of Asakusa
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Nakamise Shopping Street — 10-minute walk
Historic shops, souvenirs, local specialties
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Shin-Nakamise Shopping Street — 10-minute walk
Covered shopping, unique shops, restaurants
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Suzukien Nanaya Gelato — 10-minute walk
World’s richest matcha gelato
Reviews
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5/5 - Excellent
Senso-ji Temple is a beautiful and vibrant place to visit! The atmosphere is lively, with the bustling Nakamise Shopping Street leading up to the temple. I loved exploring the shops filled with souvenirs and traditional snacks. The iconic Kaminarimon Gate and the massive lantern are stunning and make for great photos.
The temple itself is breathtaking, with its rich history and beautiful architecture. The incense and prayers create a peaceful, spiritual vibe. It’s a must-visit spot in Tokyo for its cultural significance and lively ambiance. I truly enjoyed my visit!4 months ago — by Wesley