Senso-ji TempleThe Asakusa neighbourhood of Tokyo draws visitors to admire the
city's oldest temple, Senso-ji, founded in AD628 with a quaint
legend attached to it. The story goes that two young brothers
fishing in the nearby river netted a golden image of Kan'non, the
Buddhist goddess of mercy, and were inspired to enshrine it in the
temple. The statuette is still inside, but never shown to the
public, though pilgrims flock here every day seeking the favour of
the goddess. There are also numerous festivals associated with the
shrine, and a hugely popular firework display is held on the Sumida
River every summer. Tourists enjoy the visit to the temple mainly
because the approach is a colourful pedestrian lane, Nakamise Dori,
lined with shops and souvenir stalls. Nearby, the Demboin Garden is
a good spot to grab a break from the city crowds.
Address: 2-3-1 Asakusa Taito-ku, Shitamachi (downtown)
Telephone: (0)3 3842 0181
Transportation: Subway to Asakusa station.
Opening Time: Daily 6am-5pm.
Admission: Free |
