Senso-ji Temple

The Senso-ji temple, in Asakusa

The Senso-ji is the oldest Buddhist temple of Tokyo, the spiritual heart of the Asakusa district. The Tokyo audio-guided tour stops here, with respect, to evoke this high place of devotion, dedicated to the goddess Kannon.

The oldest temple of Tokyo

Founded according to tradition in the seventh century, the Senso-ji is the oldest Buddhist temple of Tokyo. It is dedicated to Kannon, deity of compassion, whose statue is said to have been discovered in the Sumida river by fishermen. With its main hall of vivid colours, its incense burners and its huge attendance, it remains a major place of pilgrimage and the beating heart of Asakusa, where fervour and traditions mingle.

What to see

You admire the main hall of vivid colours, the incense burners where the wisps of incense rise and the whole complex, in an atmosphere of contemplation. The Senso-ji is the oldest and most visited temple of Tokyo. It is a major stop to be discovered with respect, in the heart of Asakusa.

Practical information

The Senso-ji temple lies in the heart of the Asakusa district, in Tokyo, reachable on foot and by public transport. It is a much-frequented Buddhist place of worship; the grounds are generally freely accessible, according to hours that vary. It is a place of contemplation: it is best to behave there with calm and respect.

To which deity is the Senso-ji dedicated?

To Kannon, the Buddhist deity of compassion, whose statue is said to have been discovered in the Sumida river; it is the oldest temple of Tokyo.

Where is the Senso-ji temple?

In the heart of the Asakusa district, in Tokyo.