Asakusa Temple Guide 2024 | 5 Major Worship Introductions + 4 Recommended Surroundings Attractions

Senso-ji Temple is Tokyo's oldest and most representative temple, attracting a large number of tourists every year to pay homage. To fully experience Senso-ji Temple, besides visiting the temple itself, there are many other attractions around it worth exploring in depth. Kinnso has compiled 5 must-visit highlights of Senso-ji Temple for you, as well as recommendations for 4 nearby attractions, allowing you to explore the Asakusa area!

Asakusa Temple was built in 628 AD and is Tokyo's oldest temple, as well as one of the most representative tourist attractions. Legend has it that in 628 AD, two fishermen were fishing in Sumida River when they pulled up a 5.5-centimeter gold statue of Kannon. Villagers nearby believed it to be a miracle and flocked to worship and offer it. They built a temple to house the golden Kannon statue, and thus Asakusa Temple was born. As Tokyo's most representative temple, Asakusa Temple not only carries deep historical and cultural significance but also embodies Tokyo's inclusiveness and vitality. The main hall is solemn and incense is constantly burning, yet its surroundings are bustling with market atmosphere, offering a variety of food stalls and souvenir shops. This blend of tradition and modernity, faith and secularity, creates the unique charm of Asakusa Temple, attracting visitors from around the world every year to worship and explore. [Transportation Guide] 1. Train: Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Toei Asakusa Line to "Asakusa Station"; Tobu Railway to "Asakusa Station". 2. JR: JR Sobu Line, JR Tohoku Main Line to "Tsukuba-Eki", transfer to Toden Arakawa Line to "Yanaka-Ginza Station". [Opening Hours] Asakusa Temple is free to enter and open daily from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM. * The Kaminarimon Plaza and Nakamise-dori shopping street are open all year round and can be visited freely.

Nakamise-dori, a shopping street stretching from Kaminarimon to the main hall of Sensō-ji Temple, is lined with shops selling various goods such as wagashi (Japanese sweets), ningyo-yaki (fish-shaped cakes) – popular Asakusa souvenirs – and a wide range of souvenirs. It's a great place for shopping and bargain hunting.

Built in 1649, it is a five-story pagoda with an Edo period style, standing 53 meters tall. Along with Raijin Gate and Senso-ji Temple, it is considered one of the three major attractions of Asakusa. Many precious artifacts are housed within the pagoda, but it is generally not open to the public.

Located within Senso-ji Temple, it enshrines the spirits of three fishermen and villagers. Many locals come here to pray for peace. The Sanja Festival held in May and June each year is one of Asakusa's most grand celebrations.

Senso-ji Temple's main hall houses the statue of Kannon, a legendary golden figure said to have been fished out of the river. The Hall of Kannon is solemn and awe-inspiring, with many devout men and women offering prayers here, seeking the protection of the bodhisattva Guanyin.

Sumida Park, located by the Sumida River, is an excellent spot in Tokyo for viewing cherry blossoms and fireworks. With thousands of cherry blossom trees inside the park, during March and April when they bloom, a large number of visitors come to have picnics and admire the flowers, creating a lively atmosphere. And during the Sumida River Fireworks Festival in the summer, hundreds of thousands of people flock to the park to watch the fireworks, a truly spectacular sight! Why not reserve your spot in advance and enjoy a picnic under the cherry blossom trees while watching the fireworks for an unforgettable summer night.

Asakusa Bridge is a filming location for the Japanese drama "Halfway," and the protagonist often gazes at Tokyo Tower here. When you come to Asakusa Bridge, why not imitate Halfway's pose and take a commemorative photo in front of Tokyo Tower? There is also a cute owl statue at each end of the bridge. Not only is it a pilgrimage site for "Halfway" fans, but it has also become a new favorite in Asakusa. It is said that if you touch the statue and then your wallet, your fortune will increase. You might as well come here to make a wish, who knows, maybe you can soar like Halfway!

It is Tokyo's oldest theme park, with 25 amusement rides such as roller coasters, carousels, and haunted houses. Since its opening in 1853, it has accompanied Tokyoites for over 160 years. The park also features traditional Japanese gardens and a noh theater, fully showcasing the charm of Edo period. Wearing a yukata to play here, as if traveling through time, back to the bustling Edo era.

As Tokyo's oldest and most representative temple, Senso-ji not only witnesses the development of Tokyo but also embodies its profound cultural heritage. With solemn temple architecture and lively street vibes, the surrounding attractions like Skytree and Sumida River bring a modern touch to this ancient district. Take a day to join a tour! Explore Senso-ji and discover the purest taste of Tokyo, experiencing its unique blend of ancient and modern charm!