Uncovering Senso-ji Temple : 10 Must-Do Activities at Tokyo’s Ancient Landmark

As a seasoned traveler, I know how exciting and even elating it can be to explore new cultures and places, especially for first-time tourists. And when it comes to visiting Tokyo, Japan, trust me when I say that Senso-ji temple is a must-visit destination.

Senso-ji is the oldest temple in Tokyo, with a history that dates back over a thousand years. It welcomes an incredible 30 million visitors or more annually, making it the most sought-after shrine in Japan with unparalleled popularity!

This ancient temple is full of history, culture, and some seriously awesome street food. Tourists come to Senso-ji to have a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage, and immerse themselves in a world that’s both different from their own and deeply fascinating in traditions.

There is plenty to see and do at and around Senso-ji. From exploring the beautiful gardens, participating in some traditional Japanese rituals, to browsing the shops leading to the temple, which sell everything from traditional Japanese souvenirs to delicious street food specialties, there are plenty of chances to experience a unique part of Japan’s culture and history here. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just curious about the world, Senso-ji Temple is an absolute must-see destination.

An Overview of Senso-ji Temple

Before we dive into the fun activities you can do at Senso-ji, let me give you a brief overview of this historic temple. Senso-ji, also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple, is Tokyo’s oldest temple and one of its most significant landmarks. It was founded in the 7th century and is dedicated to the bodhisattva Kannon, who is the goddess of mercy and compassion in Buddhism.

According to legends, two fishermen, Hinokuma Hamanari and Hinokuma Takenari, found a statue of the goddess Kannon, the goddess of mercy, in the nearby Sumida River. The fishermen brought the statue to their village chief, Hajino Matsuchi, who recognized its sanctity and built a temple to enshrine the statue.

The temple was originally known as Kannon-ji Temple, but it was renamed Senso-ji Temple in the 9th century. Throughout its history, Senso-ji Temple has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, most recently during World War II.

Senso-ji Temple has played an important role in Japanese history and culture. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, who come to see the impressive architecture and beautiful garden, and experience the traditional Japanese culture and rituals that are still practiced at the temple today.

Senso-ji Temple Location and Visitor Info

• Address : 2-3-1 Asakusa, Taitō-ku, Tokyo
• Doors open to the public from 10 AM to 6 PM daily.
• Last entrance to the temple is 5:30 PM daily
• Free for all visitors – No entrance fee.

To get to Senso-ji Temple by train or subway, you will first need to get to Asakusa Station. Asakusa Station can be accessed via the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line or Toei Asakusa Line. Once you arrive at Asakusa Station, you can simply follow many street signs to the temple, which is just a 2 to 5-minute walk away.

10 Must-Do Activities at Senso-ji, Asakusa

1 – Explore Nakamise-dori Street

Nakamise-dori is a vibrant and bustling shopping street that leads up to the temple’s main entrance. It’s been around for centuries, and a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Asakusa area.

This street is lined with more than 90 traditional Japanese shops and stands selling souvenirs, snacks, and trinkets. Some of the most popular items you can find here are traditional Japanese fans, wooden sandals, and small statues of the temple’s deity, Kannon.

As you stroll down Nakamise-dori, you’ll be surrounded by the sounds of locals or visitors chatting and shopping, and the delicious smells of street food being cooked. The street can get quite crowded, especially on weekends and holidays, but it’s still worth a visit for the unique shopping experience.

One of the things that makes Nakamise-dori so special is its historic atmosphere. The street has been in existence since the Edo period, and many of the shops have been run by the same families for generations. As you walk down the street, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time to old Japan.

There are plenty of souvenir shops along Nakamise-dori where you can find traditional Japanese items like yukata (summer kimono), wooden sandals, fans, and samurai swords. You can also find more modern souvenirs like hats, T-shirts and keychains.

If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to stop by one of the many traditional Japanese confectionery shops on Nakamise-dori. Here, you can find an array of beautiful and delicious Japanese sweets, like wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets made from rice flour, sweet bean paste, and fruit).

2 – Try some Street Food

This area is known for its lively street food scene, and there are plenty of vendors selling delicious snacks and treats around the temple and in the surrounding area. Here are some must-try street foods to sample while you’re in the area :

Daigaku imo : deep-fried candied sweet potatoes dipped in honey syrup and served with a pinch of black sesame seeds.

Kaminari-okoshi : Also called “thunder crackers”, these are sweet, crunchy snacks made from crispy rice and boiled in sugar and butter, then pressed down flat and cut into squares. They are often sold in small bags and make a great gifts and souvenirs to take home.

Ningyo-yaki : small, sweet cakes shaped like traditional Japanese animals or dolls. They are usually filled with sweet red bean paste. Some vendors offer other flavors as well, such as matcha or custard or sweet potato or chestnut.

Imagawayaki : similar to ningyo-yaki, but are larger, thicker, shaped like small pancakes, and are filled with sweet or savory fillings. Some popular fillings include sweet red bean paste, custard, and sweet potato.

Melon pan : sweet bread with a crispy exterior

Senbei: grilled rice crackers that come in a variety of flavors, either sweet or savory, such as soy sauce, seaweed, black sesame, sugar, and shrimp. These crunchy snacks are a popular choice for visitors to Asakusa.

Soy-glazed dango : rice dumplings served on a skewer and dipped in soy sauce

Takoyaki: small, round balls of batter filled with small pieces of octopus and green onion. They are usually served with a savory sauce and shaved bonito (tissue-paper-thin flakes of smoked fish).

Taiyaki : fish-shaped waffle filled with red bean paste

Yakitori: skewers of grilled chicken that are often served with a savory sauce. They are a popular street food in Japan and are often sold at festivals and outdoor events.

3 – Rent a Kimono

Renting a kimono on Nakamise-dori is a popular and unique activity for visitors to the Senso-ji area. It adds a splash of elegance and culture to your Senso-ji adventure and lets you immerse yourself in ancient Japanese tradition. It is also the perfect excuse to snap stunning photos that will make for unforgettable memories.

You’ll find loads of rental shops along the street, each offering a wide selection of kimono and yukata for both men and women, ranging from bold and bright to soft and subtle.

The rental process is pretty straightforward, and usually takes around 10 minutes for men and 20-60 minutes for women. You’ll be able to select your favorite kimono, along with accessories such as a handbag, sandals, and hair accessories. Many shops also offer hair and makeup services to complete the traditional look. Don’t worry about anything, the rental staff will be there to assist you every step of the way.

I personally would skip the Japanese wooden sandals if you plan to do a lot of walking around. Your feet might ache tremendously from not being used to wearing them, and it probably causes discomfort the next day as well.

Once you’re dressed, you can explore the streets of Asakusa and take pictures in the stunning Senso-ji Temple and tranquil garden, as well as along the Sumida River.

4 – Try Your Luck with a Omikuji (Fortune-telling Paper)

Omikuji is a very popular form of fortune-telling written on paper slips practiced in Japan. Japaneses use it to get advice on many aspects of life, ranging from relationships to health to job opportunities, and more. It only costs 100 – 200 yen per try!

Here’s basically how it works:

Step 1 – Locate the Omikuji counter : You can find this on one of the booths or counter inside Senso-ji. Look for one of the containers filled with numbered wooden sticks, with a hole on one end of the container.

Step 2 – Put your money offering in the offering box, and shake the container until one of the sticks falls out onto the table.

Step 3 – Receive your fortune : The number on the stick corresponds to a nearby drawer or box containing your omikuji. Open the drawer or box and take out the piece of paper labeled with the same number as yours. The paper will have a fortune written on it in Japanese and also translated to English.

Step 4 – Interpret your fortune : Unlock the secrets of your destiny! Your fortune will offer insights into a particular area of your life, like relationships, health, or work. It may be encouraging or not-so-promising, depending on the particular fortune. Some omikuji may also provide you with specific guidance, such as “wait it out” or “go for it”. So exciting to see what your fortune has in store for you!

Step 5 – Tie your fortune : After you’ve read your fortune, you can tie it to a nearby tree or rack. This is believed to help the fortune come true, especially if it’s a positive one. If you receive a negative fortune, you can also tie it to the tree or rack to “leave behind” the bad luck.

Omikuji is a fun and interesting way to learn more about Japanese culture and also a popular souvenir for visitors to Japan, as you can keep the fortune as a reminder of your trip. Be sure to try your luck with omikuji when you visit Senso-ji!

5 – Burn Incense and Pray

One of the main attractions of Senso-ji is lighting some incense sticks (joss sticks) and offer your prayers at the temple’s Main Hall. These are very thin bamboo sticks that are coated with incense, and can be purchased from one of the stalls near the temple entrance for around 100 yen.

Incense burning and praying at Senso-ji Temple is an important aspect of the temple’s culture and tradition. It’s a way for visitors to pay respect and gratitude to the Buddhist deities and seek blessings for themselves and their loved ones. It is also a memorable cultural experience for visitors to Tokyo.

Here’s what you do :

Step 1 – Purchase incense sticks : Before you enter the temple grounds, you’ll see a row of small shops selling incense sticks (joss sticks). These are very thin sticks of incense that are burned as offerings to the deities. You can purchase a bundle of joss sticks for a small fee of 100 yen.

Step 2 – Burn the incense sticks : Once you have your incense sticks, head to one of the large incense burners in front of the temple. This is where you’ll burn your incense sticks.

Light the tip of the sticks and wait for it to start smoking. Hold them with both hands and bow twice. Then place the burning sticks in the incense burner and bow once more.

Step 3 – Offer your prayers : After you’ve burned your incense sticks, you can offer your prayers to the deities. There are several ways to do this : Some people prefer to bow their heads and pray silently, while others prefer to clap their hands twice and bow deeply.

The smoke from burning incense is said to have healing properties and can help to purify the mind and body. That’s why many people would cup their hands and wave the smoke toward their bodies for spiritual cleansing purposes.

You can also make a monetary offering to the temple in the nearby offering boxes if you wish.

6 – Purchase a Omamori (Good Luck Charm)

Visitors to Senso-ji Temple can purchase a variety of charms, also known as Omamori, which are believed to bring good luck and blessings in different aspects of life. Omamori is a popular part of Japanese culture and a great way to take home a souvenir that’s both meaningful and practical.

Plus, purchasing an omamori at the temple supports the local economy and helps preserve the temple as well as this part of Japanese culture.

Here’s what you need to know about omamori:

Types of omamori : Omamori comes in different types, each with a specific purpose. Some common types are for love, health, career success, academic achievement, and safe travel. Each omamori is designed to offer protection and blessings in a specific aspect of life. You can choose the ones that best suit your needs.

How to purchase omamori : You can purchase omamori from a small shop located on the temple grounds, near the Hozomon Gate.

How to use omamori : Once you’ve purchased your omamori, keep it with you at all times. Many people attach them to their bags, wallets, or mobile phones, while others keep them in their pockets or purses. The omamori should not be opened, as doing so is believed to diminish its power.

How long do omamori last? Omamori are usually effective for one year, after which they should be replaced with a new one. Some people return their old omamori to the temple to be burned in a special ceremony.

7 – Take a Stroll around Senso-ji Grounds

The temple grounds are vast and peaceful, with beautiful gardens, a pond filled with koi fish, and several smaller shrines and temples to explore.

One of the highlights of the temple grounds is the giant red and black lantern at the Kaminarimon Gate (“Thunder Gate”), which is the temple’s main entrance. The lantern is made of paper and stands 3.9 meters tall, and is the symbol of Asakusa.

The Main Hall : The main hall, also known as the Hondo, is the centerpiece of Senso-ji Temple. It’s a beautiful old building and features intricate carvings and artwork. This is where the statue of the goddess Kannon was originally enshrined, however the statue is currently not for the public’s view.

Legend says that something horrible happened every time someone looked at the statue, so it is now stored somewhere safe and out of sight.

The pagoda : The five-story pagoda is another iconic feature of Senso-ji Temple. It’s 53.32 meters tall and is one of the most famous pagoda in Japan.

The peaceful atmosphere: Finally, one of the best things about Senso-ji Temple is the peaceful atmosphere. Despite the crowds, there’s a sense of calm and tranquility that pervades the temple grounds. Visitors can take a deep breath, relax, and enjoy the beauty of this historic and spiritual place.

Senso-ji Garden : This garden is one of the most peaceful and tranquil places on the temple grounds. The garden is located behind the Main Hall, featuring a pond, a waterfall, and plenty of trees and plants. It’s a great place to take a break from the crowds and enjoy some natural beauty.

The garden was originally built in the 17th century by a famous landscape designer named Kobori Enshu, and it has been restored and renovated several times since then. It features a small pond, a waterfall, and a variety of trees and plants, including cherry blossoms and Japanese maples.

8 – Visit the Asakusa Jinja Shrine

Located just a few minutes walk from Senso-ji Temple is the Asakusa Jinja Shrine, also known as Sanja-sama (“Shrine of the Three Gods”). This Shinto shrine is dedicated to the three men who founded the Senso-ji Temple : Hinokuma Hamanari, Hinokuma Takenari, and Hajino Matsuchi.

The shrine is much smaller than the temple but just as beautiful and peaceful, with a red gate and a serene courtyard. It is one of the oldest and most important shrines in Tokyo, and it attracts many visitors throughout the year.

The shrine’s main hall was rebuilt in the early 20th century after a fire destroyed the original building, but some of the shrine’s other structures date back to the Edo period.

One of the most popular events celebrated at Asakusa Jinja Shrine is the Sanja Matsuri, which takes place on the third Saturday and Sunday of May each year. The Sanja Matsuri is one of Tokyo’s biggest festivals, and it attracts over a million visitors each year. The festival features processions of mikoshi (portable shrines) through the streets of Asakusa, as well as traditional music, dance, and food.

In addition to the Sanja Matsuri, there are several other festivals and events held at Asakusa Shrine throughout the year.

Visitors to Asakusa Jinja Shrine can purchase various good luck charms and amulets, which are said to bring good fortune and success in various aspects of life. The shrine’s gift shop also sells traditional Japanese snacks and souvenirs.

You can offer your prayers here at the shrine by tossing a coin into the offering box, and clapping your hands twice. The shrine is said to be particularly powerful in granting wishes related to business and prosperity.

9 – Get Carted on a Rickshaw Tour

A rickshaw ride is a fun way to experience Asakusa district and a great excuse to sit back, relax, and rest your tired feet for a bit. These rides are typically operated by licensed and experienced drivers who can take you on a tour of the area’s historic streets, temples, and shrines while providing interesting commentary along the way.

The rickshaws themselves are designed to comfortably seat two passengers, and they are often decorated with traditional Japanese designs and motifs. Some rickshaw drivers may even dress in traditional Japanese clothing to add to the experience.

A typical rickshaw ride around the Senso-ji area takes about 30 minutes, 45 minutes, or an hour, depending on the route and stops along the way. It’s an awesome way to explore the area while enjoying the fresh air and scenery.

Prices for rickshaw rides vary depending on the duration of the ride, but they typically start at around 5,000 to 7,000 yen per person for a 30-minute ride.

10 – Get a Caricature

Getting a caricature drawing in the Senso-ji area is a fun and unique way to capture a memory of your visit.

Along Nakamise-dori street, you’ll find many street artists and vendors selling their wares, including caricature drawings. The artists often work in small booths or stands, and you can watch them create their art as you wait for your turn.

The caricature artists are skilled at creating humorous and exaggerated portraits that capture your unique features and personality. They use a combination of bold lines, playful expressions, and creative exaggeration to create a fun and personalized piece of art. All within minutes.

They typically offer a variety of sizes and styles to choose from, and you can often request specific details or elements to include in your drawing. Prices vary based on the size and detail of the caricature, but they’re a bargain at just around 1,300 yen to 2,400 yen per person.

Getting a caricature drawing is an awesome and affordable activity that can be enjoyed by all ages. The artists are friendly and accommodating, and they can work with you to create a one-of-a-kind souvenir that you’ll cherish for years to come. So why not try it out and add a touch of humor and creativity to your Senso-ji experience?

Conclusion

All in all, visiting Senso-ji Temple in Tokyo is sure to be one of the highlights of your trip to Tokyo, Japan. From the beautiful architecture and serene gardens to the delicious street food and cultural activities, there’s truly something for everyone here. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Japan, Senso-ji Temple is a must-see destination that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

If I there is a question you’d love to ask and don’t see it here, feel free to email me at evelyn@japanoncloudnine.com

Wonder what other awesome tips you could get in order to navigate Tokyo and Japan in general smoothly and stress-free, with or without a JR Pass ? Read my “12 Ultimate Tips for Taking Tokyo’s Public Transport With Ease” post here.

Wonder what this JR Pass everyone talks about all the time is? More importantly, if getting a JR Pass would be a good idea and save you a lot of money on transportation costs? Get concise and practical answers here in my “Japan Rail Pass : Answers to All Your Questions, and Is It Worth Buying?“ post.