Kaminarimon Gate

The Kaminarimon gate, in Asakusa

The Kaminarimon gate, the Thunder Gate, is the emblematic entrance of the Senso-ji temple, in Asakusa. The Tokyo audio-guided tour stops here, with respect, to evoke this monument and its huge red lantern.

The Thunder Gate and its red lantern

The Kaminarimon gate is the monumental entrance of the Senso-ji temple and one of the most famous symbols of Tokyo. It is dominated by a huge red paper lantern hanging in its centre. On either side watch the statues of the deities of wind, Fujin, and thunder, Raijin, which gave it its name. To pass through this gate marks the beginning of the Nakamise avenue and the sacred path towards the temple.

What to see

You admire the huge red paper lantern and the statues of the deities of wind and thunder, in an atmosphere full of respect, at the entrance of the Senso-ji. The Kaminarimon gate is one of the symbols of Tokyo. It is a must-see stop, the starting point of the path towards the temple.

Practical information

The Kaminarimon gate lies at the entrance of the Senso-ji temple, in the Asakusa district, in Tokyo, reachable on foot and by public transport. It is an open-air monument, freely accessible, at the entrance of a much-frequented place of worship. It is best to behave there with respect and to anticipate the large crowds.

What do the statues of the Kaminarimon gate represent?

The deities of wind, Fujin, and thunder, Raijin, which gave its name to the Thunder Gate, entrance of the Senso-ji temple.

Where is the Kaminarimon gate?

At the entrance of the Senso-ji temple, in the Asakusa district, in Tokyo.