Introduction to Senso-ji

Asakusa is well known for its historical atmosphere and Buddhist temples. Many tourists and worshipers visit every year for its main attraction, Sensoji Temple. Built in the 7th century, the temple’s structure creates an outstanding ambiance of history embedded far into the past. The legend of Sensoji is based around the year 628, when two fisherman brothers were inspired after finding images of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, in the Sumidagawa River and chose to enshrine it. The temple is ornamented with the symbol furai jin-mon (Gate of Wind God and Thunder God) and displays a large red paper lantern bearing the inscription kaminarimon (Thunder Gate). Sensoji Temple is approached via the Nakamise, a street abundant with shops selling souvenirs, traditional food, and clothing.