Senso-ji Temple
Senso-ji Temple, officially named Kinryuzan Senso-ji, is a Buddhist temple located in Taito City, Tokyo, Japan. It has a profound historical background and is one of the oldest temples in Tokyo. The temple's mountain name is "Kinryuzan," and it primarily enshrines the Bodhisattva Kannon (Avalokiteshvara), hence it is also known as "Asakusa Kannon." Originally affiliated with the Tendai sect, it became independent after World War II and now serves as the head temple of the Seikanzeon sect.
Main Structures and Features of the Temple
Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate)
One of the most iconic symbols of Senso-ji is the Kaminarimon. This entrance gate to the approach path (Omotesando) is built in the kirizuma-style with eight supporting pillars. It features statues of the wind god (left) and thunder god (right). Its official name is "Furaijinmon" (Wind and Thunder God Gate), though it is commonly known as "Kaminarimon." The original structure was destroyed by fire in 1865, and the current version was rebuilt in 1960. The large red lantern in the center was donated by entrepreneur Konosuke Matsushita in gratitude for Kannon’s blessings.
Hozomon (originally Niomon Gate)
After passing through Kaminarimon and the Nakamise shopping street, visitors reach Hozomon. This two-story gate was reconstructed with reinforced concrete in 1964, funded by entrepreneur Yonetaro Otani and his wife. Statues of the Niō (guardian deities) stand on either side. The name "Hozomon" comes from the second floor being used as a storage space for cultural treasures.
Main Hall (Kannon-do)
The Main Hall is the heart of the temple, enshrining the principal image of Kannon. The current structure was rebuilt in 1958 using reinforced concrete, replacing the previous building destroyed in the Tokyo air raids of 1945. The ceiling features paintings by renowned artists Ryushi Kawabata and Insho Domoto. At the center is a 6-meter-high structure housing the hidden principal image and the public Kannon statue, which is the only one viewable by the public except during the annual opening ceremony on December 13.
Five-Story Pagoda
Originally built in 1648, the Five-Story Pagoda was destroyed in the Great Kanto Earthquake and during the Tokyo air raids. The current pagoda, rebuilt in 1973, stands about 48 meters tall. It houses sacred relics (sarira) from Sri Lanka at the top. A memorial hall is located in its base.
Nitenmon Gate
Located to the east of the Main Hall, Nitenmon was built in 1618 and is one of the few historical structures that survived wartime destruction. It was initially constructed as a side gate to Asakusa Toshogu Shrine. It retains its wooden structure and houses statues of the guardian deities Jikokuten and Zochoten.
Asakusa Shrine
Situated east of the Main Hall, Asakusa Shrine enshrines the three individuals involved in the founding of Senso-ji. It is currently managed by an independent organization. The shrine building is also designated as an Important Cultural Property.
Denbo-in and Garden
Denbo-in, located west of the Hozomon, is the residential area for the temple monks. Its garden, a circular walking-style garden, was designed by the famous Japanese landscape artist Enshu Kobori. It is not open to the public under normal circumstances.
