Much of modern life in Tokyo revolves around the latest technology, but there’s still space for the spirituality of Buddhism. At Sensoji Temple, Buddhist monks practise their ancient way of life in the oldest temple in Tokyo, a five-storey red and white pagoda, set among the high rises of the city. The temple’s history dates back to the seventh century with a tale steeped in legend. The story goes that two brothers were out fishing one day and found a small statue of the Japanese goddess of mercy, Kannon, trapped in their nets. After they tried without avail to return the Bodhisattva Bato-kannon (the statue of Kannon) to the river, they kept it. The brothers and a third man, a wealthy landlord and chief of the village, devoted their lives to Buddhism and built a shrine to honour the goddess and protect the statue. For this reason, the three men are commemorated today along with the statue itself.As the popularity of the temple grew, shops around the temple began to open, selling souvenirs and snacks.The very statue that was rescued from the fishermen’s nets is displayed to the public in the Komagatado Hall on the 19th day of each month, under the watchful eyes of the presiding Buddhist monks. And during May, Sensoji Temple hosts the festival of the Asakusa Shrine with three days of traditional music and dancing as the mikoshi (portable shrines) of the three men are paraded around the temple area. The streets are thronged with people playing flutes and drums, singing and trying to catch a glimpse of the celebrations.The temple complex with its imposing Kaminarimon (Thunder Gates), main hall, pagoda and Asakusa Shrine is a stunning example of Buddhist architecture. When the temple was rebuilt after the Second World War, it became for many a symbol of rebirth, much like a tree in the grounds which, when hit by a bomb, regrew in the charred shell of its old trunk.
Sensoji Temple Tours and Activities
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Reviewed on 12 May 2024
Tours & day trips
See all 130 activitiesOpens in new tabTokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 30 activitiesOpens in new tabLive traditional music performance over dinner
Classes & workshops
See all 19 activitiesOpens in new tabHandmade Goshuin Book Experience Eco Friendly Upcycling in Tokyo
Adventure & outdoor
See all 6 activitiesOpens in new tabDay Mount Fuji Private Tour with english speaking driver
Reviews of Sensoji Temple
4/5 - Good
Go early, or late. It gets really crowded really quickly once the shops in the area open.
5/5 - Excellent
Go at night! The place looks amazing with the lights on at night and you skip the crowds.
4/5 - Good
Less crowded on a weekday
4/5 - Good
Lots of people renting kimono and walking around -didn't feel very authentic.
5/5 - Excellent
There is a small amusement park a short walk from the temple where there is a small entrance fee and rides start from 100yen
5/5 - Excellent
Very accessible. Easy to see sights and surrounding area
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