Discover the rich history of Sensoji Temple, a revered symbol of the city of Tokyo. Dating back to 628, the temple’s story began with two brothers fishing in the Sumida River and pulling a statue of Kannon from the water. Despite their attempts to return the statue, it kept getting caught in their net, leading the brothers to realize that it was a divine artifact meant for the land. Thus, Sensoji Temple was built in 645 to house the goddess Kannon.
Step through the famous Kaminarimon, or “Thunder Gate”, the main entrance to Sensoji Temple, and be greeted by a large red and black chochin lantern, a symbol of Asakusa and Tokyo itself. On either side of the lantern stand the gods of wind and thunder, adding to the grandeur of the entrance.
As you make your way through the temple, you’ll come across Nakamise-dori, a 250-meter shopping street leading to the Hozomon Gate. Here, you can immerse yourself in the traditional food culture of Japan as you sample snacks, sweets, and purchase souvenirs from the various shops lining the street.
Despite being destroyed during World War II, Sensoji Temple stands today as a testament to the strength and resilience of the Japanese people, having been rebuilt with donations from all over the country. The temple represents a peaceful rebirth of the capital, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the rich culture and history of Tokyo.
