The legend goes that in 628 CE two brothers found a statue at the bottom of the Sumida River while out fishing and brought it back to their home. The village head, upon seeing the object, recognized it as the Buddhist deity of mercy, Guanyin, and felt compelled to enter priesthood and transform his own house into a temple. This was the beginning of Sensoji Temple and the statue is said to be enshrined in the hondo (main building). While the temple is the centrepiece of Asakusa, visitors should approach from the south side via Kaminarimon for the full experience.

Information
Location
SensĹŤ-ji, 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito, Tokyo 111-0032
« Google Maps »
Details
The temple is open 6:30-17:00 but you can enter the grounds at any time
You May Also Like

Kaminarimon

Kaminarimon (“Thunder Gate”) is the protector of Sensoji Temple. Fujin, the god of wind, and Raijin, the god of thunder, are enshrined on the east and west side of the gate, respectively. Pass under the gate and make your way up Nakamise. As you do, be sure to look up to see the wooden carving under the large red lantern.

Zojoji Temple

Zojoji (増上寺) is the the main temple of the Buddhist Jodo sect, with origins that date back to…

Kotokuin Temple

Temple is home to a 121-ton stone Buddha (“The Great Buddha”) which has stood since the mid-13th century and is a designated National Treasure. It took 10 years to complete, the cost of construction borne by the priests and members of the community.

Kiyomizu Temple

Temple in the Higashiyama District dating back to the late 8th century and famous for its views of the city (especially at night). It is one of the 17 Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1944.