Senso-ji Temple

浅草寺

Senso-ji in Asakusa is Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple. According to the story, two fishermen brothers found a statue of Kannon in 628, and the temple was built to house it. Visitors enter through the large red Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), walk along the Nakamise shopping street, and see the main hall and a five-story pagoda. The current main building was rebuilt after it was destroyed in World War II, and the temple is lit up most nights.

Open in Google Maps ↗ Directions ↗

Visitor information

Getting there

About 5 minutes on foot from Asakusa Station (Tobu Isesaki Line, Ginza Line, Tsukuba Express).

About 5 minutes on foot from Exit A4 of Asakusa Station (Toei Asakusa Line).

Hours and fees can change. Please check the official website before you go.

Good to know

The temple buildings are lit up until 11 p.m. on most nights.
Facilities listed: restrooms, smoking areas, wheelchair ramp, elevator, multi-purpose toilet and a breastfeeding room.
The approach street Nakamise-dori has about 90 shops selling crafts, souvenirs and snacks.
Signage and services are available in Japanese, English, Chinese (traditional) and Korean.

Tips for Muslim visitors

According to the Tokyo Muslim travelers' guide, Dar Al-Arqam Masjid is at 1-9-12 Higashi-Asakusa, Taito City, and is open from Fajr to Isha.
In front of the main hall, people waft incense smoke over their bodies, a custom said to bring good health. This is a Buddhist custom; you can simply look around without joining.
The temple's principal image, a statue of the Bodhisattva Kannon, is kept hidden inside a locked miniature shrine and is not shown to visitors.
Buddhist temples welcome visitors of all faiths. You can enjoy the buildings and gardens without joining any prayer, burning incense or buying charms.
Many halls ask you to take off your shoes. Wear socks and shoes that are easy to slip off, and keep a bag for your shoes if none is provided.
Photography is often not allowed inside halls. Follow the signs and ask staff if you are unsure.
Plan your visit around prayer times. Below are today's prayer times for Tokyo and the verified places to pray nearby.
Food stalls and shops near popular sights usually do not have halal certification. Check the ingredients, or choose from the verified places on this site.