Senso-ji Temple

Senso-ji is Tokyo's oldest and most visited Buddhist temple, founded in 628 AD in the Asakusa district of Taito City. According to tradition, two fishermen discovered a golden image of Kannon (the goddess of mercy) in the Sumida River, and the temple was built to enshrine it. The approach to the main hall begins at the Kaminarimon Gate, whose massive red paper lantern weighing 670 kilograms is one of Tokyo's most photographed images. Beyond the gate, Nakamise Shopping Street stretches 250 meters lined with roughly 90 shops selling traditional crafts, snacks, and souvenirs — ningyo-yaki cakes, kaminari-okoshi rice crackers, and folded fans are popular purchases. The second gate, Hozomon, leads into the main precinct where a five-story pagoda and the main hall stand. The main hall houses the Kannon image, though it is never publicly displayed. Visitors toss coins into the offering box, clap twice, and pray. The large bronze incense burner in the courtyard draws visitors who waft smoke over themselves for its purported healing properties. Omikuji fortune papers can be drawn for ¥100 — unfavorable fortunes are tied to designated racks and left behind. The temple grounds remain open around the clock, though the inner hall closes at 5 PM (6 PM in summer). Nakamise Street and surrounding alleys offer rickshaw rides, kimono rentals, and multiple dining options including historic tempura restaurants. The nearby Sumida Park provides pleasant walking along the river.