Visiting Senso-ji Temple in the Asakusa District, Tokyo

Senso-ji Temple is the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo and perhaps the most photographed one, too!

The bright red roof of this temple, with large eaves jutting out of the main temple hall, is a sight to behold!

What makes this ancient temple even more popular is its proximity to the famous 250-metre-long pedestrian street, called Nakamise-dori, which leads you directly to the temple gates.

Walking along Nakamise-dori, or Nakamise Shopping Street, will give you an instant taste of this vibrant city. The street has stalls all along its length that date back to the 17th Century! Here, you can find everything from traditional kimonos to street food and souvenirs.

Once you reach the temple complex, you need to look for 3 main attractions: the main hall, the five-storey Pagoda and the two huge impressive gates.

The main entrance to the temple is through the Kaminarimon Gate, also called Thunder Gate. The other one is Hozomon Gate or the Treasury Gate.

The Kaminarimon Gate, as seen from inside the temple complex

Things to know before visiting Senso-ji Temple in the Asakusa District of Tokyo

• The temple is very centrally located and a short walk from the Asakusa Station.

  
  

• The temple opens very early at 6:00 am in the morning. Try to reach early if you wish to experience the grandeur of this temple minus the crowds.

  
  

• Entry to the temple complex is free. Plan to spend at least an hour in this beautiful complex. There is a lot to do and see in the temple, plus visitors can also take part in some temple rituals.

• There are many smaller shrines and idols in the temple complex where you can offer prayers and feast your eyes on the celebratory ambience of the temple.

• After you're done sightseeing, you can walk toward the Nakamise Street, relish traditional Japanese snacks, and see firsthand what makes this temple such a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

  
  

• Very close to the temple is Hanayashiki, Japan's oldest amusement park, dating back to 1853. We were really intrigued by this park, and it reminded us of the famous Tivoli Gardens of Copenhagen. If you have time, then this can be a fun way to spend your day.