How long does it take to walk through the Senso-ji temple area?

A typical stroll through the main Senso-ji complex, including the Kaminarimon Gate and Nakamise Street, takes about 90 to 120 minutes. This includes time for taking photos, browsing the stalls, and observing the rituals at the main hall.

Is Senso-ji the oldest temple in Tokyo?

Yes, Senso-ji is widely recognized as the oldest temple in Tokyo, with its origins dating back to the year 628 AD. It was founded after two brothers discovered a statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, in the nearby Sumida River.

Can I visit Senso-ji at night?

Yes, the temple grounds remain open 24 hours a day and are beautifully illuminated after sunset until 11:00 PM. While the main hall closes in the late afternoon, visiting at night is a great way to see the architecture without the daytime crowds.

Is there an entrance fee for Senso-ji or Asakusa Shrine?

There is no entrance fee to visit the Senso-ji temple grounds or the Asakusa Shrine. Both sites are free to the public, though it is common practice to offer a small coin (typically 5 or 50 yen) when making a prayer.

How do I get to the start of the Asakusa walking route?

The easiest way to reach the start is via Asakusa Station, which is served by the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, the Toei Asakusa Line, and the Tobu Skytree Line. Exit 4 or 5 will place you directly near the Azuma Bridge.

Is the Asakusa neighborhood walk suitable for seniors?

Yes, the route is very flat and easy to walk, making it ideal for seniors or families with strollers. There are also plenty of places to sit and rest near the temple and along the riverfront.

What should I eat while walking in Asakusa?

Nakamise Street is famous for its 'tabearuki' or 'eating while walking' snacks. Must-try items include Ningyo-yaki (doll-shaped cakes), fresh Senbei (rice crackers), and Agemanju (deep-fried bean cakes).

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Asakusa is where the soul of old Tokyo still breathes, offering a glimpse into a world of traditional craftsmanship, ancient spirituality, and the bustling energy of the Edo period. This self-guided walking route invites you to explore the evolution of the city, from the shimmering waters of the Sumida River to the incense-filled air of Tokyo's oldest temple. This neighborhood stroll captures the contrast between the modern skyline, dominated by the Tokyo Skytree, and the historic gates that have stood as symbols of resilience for centuries. While many visitors look for a walking tour Tokyo to navigate the crowds, this audio walk allows you to linger at the artisan stalls of Denboin Street or contemplate the architecture of Senso-ji at your own pace. You will begin at the iconic Azuma Bridge, a primary gateway to the district that offers panoramic views of the riverfront and the unique Asahi Beer Hall. From there, the route leads you through the Kaminarimon, or 'Thunder Gate,' where a massive red lantern marks the entrance to a sacred realm. As you move through Nakamise Shopping Street, you will encounter flavors and crafts that have been sold here for generations. This self-guided walk is designed to highlight the legends of the area, including the miraculous discovery of the Kannon statue by two local fishermen and the history of the Sanja Matsuri festival. It is a perfect way to experience the cultural heart of the city independently. Whether you are interested in the intricate details of Buddhist architecture or the local folklore of the Asakusa Shrine, this walking route provides a comprehensive look at one of Tokyo's most beloved districts. This experience is a fantastic alternative to a traditional walking tour Tokyo, giving you the freedom to explore every hidden corner and vibrant market stall without a fixed schedule.

Highlights

The iconic red lantern of Kaminarimon Gate

Traditional snacks and souvenirs on Nakamise Street

The sacred atmosphere of Senso-ji, Tokyo's oldest temple

Panoramic views of the Sumida River and Tokyo Skytree

The hidden artisan charm of Denboin Street

The historic Asakusa Shrine dedicated to the temple's founders

Tour Stops (6)

Azuma Bridge

Start your journey at Azuma Bridge, a striking vermilion structure that has served as a vital link over the Sumida River since the late 18th century. From here, you can see the dramatic contrast of Tokyo's identity. To the east stands the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Japan, alongside the Asahi Beer Hall with its famous 'Golden Flame' sculpture. The bridge itself was originally built in 1774 and was the only bridge across the river in this area for a long time. It provides a perfect vantage point to understand Asakusa's history as a water-based transport hub during the Edo period, when boats filled with goods and travelers would constantly ply these waters.

Kaminarimon Gate

Standing before the Kaminarimon, or 'Thunder Gate,' you are looking at the most famous symbol of Asakusa. The massive red lantern, weighing roughly 700 kilograms, is flanked by two formidable statues: Fujin, the god of wind, and Raijin, the god of thunder. These deities protect the temple from storms and fires. While the gate has been destroyed by fire multiple times over the centuries, the current structure was donated in 1960 by Konosuke Matsushita, the founder of Panasonic. Look closely at the base of the lantern to see the intricate dragon carving, a nod to the water deities that are believed to protect this sacred site.

Nakamise Shopping Street

As you pass through the gate, you enter Nakamise-dori, one of the oldest shopping streets in Japan. This 250-meter path has been a bustling marketplace since the early 18th century, when local residents were granted permission to sell goods to the pilgrims visiting the temple. Today, nearly 90 stalls line the route, offering traditional Edo-style snacks like 'ningyo-yaki' (small cakes filled with red bean paste) and 'senbei' (rice crackers). The atmosphere here captures the 'shitamachi' spirit—the culture of the old downtown working class—where commerce and community have thrived alongside spirituality for hundreds of years.

Denboin Street

Turning off the main path, Denboin Street offers a quieter look at Asakusa's heritage. This street is designed to evoke the atmosphere of the Edo period, with traditional-style storefronts and decorative shutters. If you look up at the rooftops or check the painted shutters when shops are closed, you might spot figures of 'Nezumi Kozo,' a legendary Japanese Robin Hood-like character. This area is famous for its high-quality crafts, including Edo-kiriko cut glass and traditional combs. It is a wonderful place to see the attention to detail and craftsmanship that defines Japanese local culture away from the main tourist rush.

Senso-ji

You have arrived at Senso-ji, Tokyo's oldest and most significant Buddhist temple. Founded in 628 AD, the temple's history began when two brothers fished a golden statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, out of the Sumida River. Despite their attempts to return the statue to the water, it kept coming back to them, leading to the temple's founding. The current Main Hall is a 1958 reconstruction, as the original was lost in World War II. Before entering, many visitors stop at the 'jokoro' or large incense burner; the smoke is said to have healing properties. The temple remains a vibrant center of faith where thousands come daily to offer prayers.

Asakusa Shrine

Just a short walk from the temple's main hall is the Asakusa Shrine, also known as Sanja-sama. While the temple is Buddhist, this is a Shinto shrine, showcasing the harmonious coexistence of the two religions in Japan. It was built during the Edo period in 1649 by the shogun Tokugawa Iemitsu to honor the three men who founded Senso-ji: the two fishermen brothers and their village headman. This shrine is the heart of the Sanja Matsuri, one of Tokyo's three largest and wildest festivals. The building is a rare survivor of the air raids of 1945 and is designated as an Important Cultural Property.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided audio walk is often considered the best way to explore Asakusa because it allows you to navigate the dense crowds at your own pace. You can spend more time at the Senso-ji temple or explore the side streets of Denboin without being tied to a group schedule.