Senso-Ji Temple is one of the most magnificent Buddhist temples in Tokyo. Located in the historic Asakusa district, Senso-Ji is the oldest established temple in Tokyo, originally built in the 7th century. It was destroyed by air raids during WWII and has since been rebuilt faithfully to the original. When visiting Senso-Ji, make time to explore Nakamise Dori, a shopping street lined with small shops and stalls selling delicious snacks and souvenirs. After your visit, stop for dinner at one of the many lively izakaya restaurants in the streets surrounding Senso-Ji.
There are an overwhelming number of temples and shrines to visit in Tokyo, but if you only have time for a few, make sure one of them is Senso-Ji (& the Meiji Shrine).
Senso-Ji Temple
The towering Buddhist temple is magnificent. Illuminated at night, the glowing red temple pops against the bright blue Japanese night sky. Senso-Ji is Tokyo’s oldest and most significant temple. It was built in 645, in honour of the Buddhist goddess Kannon. Like so much of Tokyo, it was destroyed in air raids during World War II and has since been rebuilt. Despite not being the original article, Senso-Ji hasn’t lost any of its magic.
Izakaya restaurants & bars near Senso-Ji
Senso-Ji is surrounded by buzzing izakaya bars and restaurants. Before World War II, Asakusa was the nightlife precinct in Tokyo. These days, as the nightlife and entertainment has moved into more modern parts of the city. Asakusa is atmospheric but a little more chilled out than it was in its heyday, I regretted eating before we got there, because the Izakaya bars here looked so inviting!
Nakamise Dori Markets
The market stalls and shops leading up to Sensō-Ji were mostly selling touristy trinkets such as Japanese-style fans and yukata (casual versions of kimonos). There were a few selling tasteful homewares or handcrafts, and more importantly, tasty snacks! Nakamise Dori is a fun spot to browse, before or after visiting Senso-Ji.
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