A grand red gate, a lively market street and an ancient Buddhist temple in the heart of old Tokyo.
The Oldest Temple in Tokyo
The oldest temple in Tokyo with a long history.
Find Your Next Trip
About Senso-ji Temple
Senso-ji, founded in 645 AD, is the oldest temple in Tokyo and one of the city's most visited places. It stands in Asakusa, an old district with a traditional feel, and honours Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy.
Visitors enter through the Kaminarimon, or Thunder Gate, with its huge red lantern, and then walk along Nakamise Street, a market lane about 250 m long lined with snack shops and souvenir stalls, before passing through the Hozomon gate to the five-storey pagoda and main hall. In front of the main hall, a large incense burner lets people waft smoke over themselves for good luck, and many people draw omikuji fortune slips and pray — the grounds are lively by day and calm and beautiful in the early morning and evening.
Why Visit Senso-ji Temple?
Local story
Good to Know
The grounds are free and open all day; the main hall and shops close earlier in the evening. The temple suits families, couples, groups and photographers, for a visit of 1.5 to 2 hours.
Sanja Matsuri in May brings especially large crowds, and it's best to eat snacks standing near the stalls rather than while walking through the temple grounds.
How to Reach Senso-ji Temple
- 01
Pakistan to Tokyo
Fly from Islamabad, Lahore or Karachi to Japan, usually with one connection through a Gulf, Southeast Asian or other Asian hub. Check current routes and book early.
- 02
Airport to Tokyo
Take the airport train, limousine bus or a taxi into Tokyo.
- 03
Tokyo to Asakusa
Take the Ginza Line or the Asakusa Line to Asakusa Station, a few minutes' walk from the temple.
- 04
Explore
Walk through the gate, along Nakamise Street and into the temple grounds.
Things to Do in Senso-ji Temple
Best Time to Visit Senso-ji Temple
Excellent
Autumn
September to November
Cool weather and clear skies. One of the best times.
Recommended season
Good
Spring
March to May
Cherry blossoms along the Sumida River and mild weather.
Good time to visit
Good
Winter
December to February
Cold and quiet, with crisp air and fewer crowds.
Good time to visit
Good
Summer
June to August
Hot and humid. Visit early or after sunset.
Good time to visit
Travel smart
Travel Tips for Senso-ji Temple
A few useful things to know before you go there.
Go Early
Mornings are quiet and the light is soft.
Respect the Temple
Keep your voice low and follow the signs.
Follow the Etiquette
Wash your hands at the water basin before praying.
Avoid Peak Times
Weekends, holidays and festivals are very crowded.
Keep Valuables Close
Stay alert in crowded areas.
Eat While Standing
Snacks are best eaten near the stalls, not while walking in the temple grounds.
Plan Halal Meals
Halal options are growing in Japan but can be limited, so check restaurants in advance.
Carry Cash and a Transport Card
A Suica or ICOCA card makes trains easy, though small shops may prefer cash.
Nearby Attractions
Location
Find Us on the Map
Explore Senso-ji Temple in Japan and get directions easily.
Senso-ji Temple
Japan
Frequently Asked Questions
It is the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo, in the Asakusa district.
Ready to Visit Senso-ji Temple?
Let us plan your Japan trip while you enjoy Senso-ji Temple without the stress of handling it yourself.