History of Sensoji Temple
Senso-ji Temple was founded in 628. In that year, two local fishermen, brothers Hinomae Hamanari and Takenari, were fishing in the Sumida River when they pulled a statue of Saint Kannon into their net. This event had a special meaning to the local people, and they showed the statue to Doji Nakachi, an influential local figure. Doji Nakachi rebuilt his house to worship the statue, which is believed to be the beginning of the Sensoji Temple. This established Senso-ji as a place of worship.
In the Heian period (794-1185), Senso-ji further developed: in 645, Shokai Shonin built the Kannon Hall and designated the temple's principal image as a secret Buddha. During this period, Taira no Kunga contributed to the rebuilding and expansion of the temple, increasing its size and authority. With the support of Taira no Kōga, Sensō-dera attracted many followers and became an important religious center in the region. As a result, Senso-ji became more than just a temple; it became a cultural center.
During the Edo period (1603-1867), Senso-ji further developed under the patronage of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Ieyasu valued Sensoji as a symbol of the authority of the Edo shogunate, and many rebuildings and expansions were undertaken. During this period, the temple's architecture grew in splendor, making it an essential destination for devotees and tourists. In particular, the reconstruction of the Kaminarimon and the main hall further enhanced the prestige of Senso-ji.
During World War II, the Senso-ji Temple, including the main hall, was destroyed by fire in the Tokyo Air Raid. However, the local community worked hard to rebuild the temple after the war, and in 1958, the main hall was rebuilt as a reinforced concrete structure, ushering in a new era for Senso-ji. This reconstruction became a symbol of local piety and culture.
Even today, Senso-ji Temple is one of Japan's most popular tourist attractions, attracting more than 30 million visitors annually. The temple is also known for its downtown Tokyo atmosphere, offering a unique experience for visitors. By passing through the Kaminarimon gate and walking along Nakamise-dori, tourists can feel close to traditional Japanese culture and history and enjoy local food, culture, and souvenirs. Senso-ji Temple is a sightseeing destination that profoundly touches everyone's hearts.
Within the precincts of Sensoji Temple are numerous historical buildings have been designated as important cultural properties. In particular, the Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), Hozomon (Treasury Gate), the main hall, and the five-story pagoda leave a strong impression on visitors. These buildings are a concentrated collection of ancient architectural techniques and art; visitors will be overwhelmed by their beauty. The five-story pagoda, in particular, is characterized by its bright vermilion color and is illuminated at night, creating a fantastic atmosphere. These buildings are important testaments to the history and culture of Sensoji Temple.
At Senso-ji, visitors not only visit the temple to pray but also enjoy a variety of experiences. Visitors can form their own wishes and thoughts through omikuji and red seals. Another attraction is the seasonal events held at the temple, especially the Hozuki (Japanese Lantern) Market in July and the Hagoita (Japanese wooden board) Market in December, which attracts many people. Through these experiences, visitors can better understand and enjoy the culture and traditions of Sensoji Temple.
Sensoji Temple is valuable for domestic and international visitors who want to experience traditional Japanese culture. Sensoji Temple is a popular spot for foreign visitors to experience Japanese history and culture directly. Visitors can not only shop along Nakamise Street and enjoy traditional Japanese sweets but also experience the spiritual culture of Japan through worship and cultural experiences inside the temple. In this way, Sensoji Temple continues to serve as an international tourist destination and is loved by many people.
Highlights of Sensoji Temple
Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) is the symbolic entrance to Senso-ji Temple and is vital in welcoming visitors. This gate enshrines the Wind God and Thunder God, and the extensive paper lantern hanging in the center of the gate is a popular photo spot for tourists. The bottom of the lantern is decorated with beautiful dragon carvings, and statues of the God of Thunder and the God of Wind stand on either side of the gate. These carvings are essential in giving visitors a sense of traditional Japanese art.
The five-story pagoda is a particularly striking feature of the Senso-ji temple grounds, its bright vermilion color attracting visitors' attention. This pagoda was rebuilt in 1973 and has a beautiful silhouette in the to-in style. At night, the five-story pagoda, along with the main hall and the Hozomon gate, is illuminated, creating a fantastic atmosphere. The topmost layer of the pagoda enshrines a chedi (stupa) acquired from Sri Lanka and plays an important role as an object of worship.
Hozomon Gate is a two-story gate in front of the main hall of Sensoji Temple, with statues of Nio statues enshrined on either side. These Niou statues are considered important as protectors of worshippers, and their powerful expressions make a powerful impression on visitors. Hozomon also houses the sutra repository, the "Genban Zenjikyo," an important cultural property of Japan.
This makes Hozomon more than just a gateway; it is a place of cultural value.
The main hall is the central building of Senso-ji Temple and is dedicated to the Bodhisattva Sho-Kanzeon. The main hall is believed to be beneficial for the "fulfillment of one's wishes," and visitors visit the temple with various wishes. The inner sanctum is a particularly sacred space, with a palace in the center, where the main image of the Buddha is enshrined and is not available to the public.
Dori is a tourist attraction that runs from Kaminarimon to Hozomon. The street is lined with 90 stores selling Japanese sweets, tea, and traditional handicrafts. Visitors can experience Japanese culture here while choosing a memorable souvenir. Dori is an important part of the experience of visiting Senso-ji Temple.
How to get to Senso-ji Temple
Access to Senso-ji Temple is very convenient, with the nearest stations being Asakusa Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Toei Asakusa Line, and Tobu Skytree Line. In particular, Asakusa Station is very convenient for tourists, as the Kaminarimon gate is only a one-minute walk from the station. This makes it easy for visitors to enjoy the attractions of Sensoji Temple. In addition, the Tsukuba Express "Asakusa Station" is also available, which is only a 3-minute walk away.
The distance from Asakusa Station to Sensoji Temple is approximately a 5-minute walk. This short distance allows tourists to easily visit the temple and enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the surrounding area. In particular, passing through Nakamise Street is one of the most attractive ways to enjoy a variety of souvenirs and food while feeling the traditional Japanese atmosphere. Seasonal events are also held on the grounds of Senso-ji Temple, so a new experience awaits you each time you visit.
Access by car is very convenient, and Senso-ji Temple can be reached in about 10 minutes from the Komagata Exit on the Metropolitan Expressway Route 6 Mukojima Line. Access from central Tokyo is especially good, and cars can be used to travel smoothly to other sightseeing spots between sightseeing tours. Securing a parking space is essential, but many parking lots in the area can be reserved in advance.
Using public transportation, access from Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ikebukuro, and Tokyo is very convenient. For example, from Shinjuku, take the Toei Shinjuku Line and arrive at Sensoji Temple in about 45 minutes. From Shibuya, the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line can reach the temple in about 40 minutes. This information is essential for tourists to be able to travel efficiently. In particular, trains are the most convenient means of transportation in Tokyo.
There are several parking lots near Sensoji Temple that can be reserved for tourists. Reserving a parking space in advance can reduce stress on the day of sightseeing. Since reserving a parking space can be quickly done online, we recommend planning before you visit. This will ensure a smooth and enjoyable sightseeing experience.
Annual events at Sensoji Temple! You are lucky if you can come during this time of year.
Sanja Matsuri is an important festival held annually in May that heralds the beginning of spring in Asakusa. Three portable shrines are paraded through the streets during this festival, bringing local residents and tourists together. The mikoshi are made using traditional techniques and are usually kept in the Mikasha. During the festival, approximately 3 million visitors come to watch the Mikoshi parade, which is a spectacular sight to behold. The enthusiasm and participation of the local people make this festival even more attractive.
The Hozuki Market, held in July, is the next traditional market held on the grounds of Sensoji Temple. At this event, visitors are mesmerized by the colorful array of hozukis. The stalls sell not only Hazuki but also a variety of other traditional items, creating a lively atmosphere. The festival attracts locals and tourists alike and has become a popular summer tradition.
In December, the Hagoita Market is held. This market has been held since the Edo period (1603-1867) and is a traditional year-end market. Hagoita (wooden shuttlecocks) with oshie (pressed wooden boards) are especially popular. About 30 stalls line the streets, selling unique Hagoita boards that reflect the year's current world affairs. The Hagoita Market is a much-loved year-end tradition, and visitors can enjoy preparing for the New Year.
The Kinryu no Mai (Golden et al.) is a traditional dance derived from the name of Senso-ji Temple, in which a golden dragon parades through the Nakamise and the temple grounds, led by a "lotus pearl" symbolizing Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy. This dance represents the golden dragon that descended from the sky on the occasion of the manifestation of Kannon and is characterized by its heroic and splendid performance. Tourists and locals gather to be impressed by the power of the dance and to applaud. The Golden Dragon Dance is a rare opportunity to experience the culture of Sensoji Temple.
Senso-ji Temple is illuminated at night throughout the year, creating a fantastic atmosphere. In particular, when the Kaminarimon and the main hall are lit up, their beauty is even more striking and captivates visitors. The sight of these historic buildings illuminated in the stillness of the night gives visitors the feeling of being in another world. The light-up is a beautiful opportunity to experience the charm of Sensoji Temple from a new perspective.
