The Bald Traveler Review:
Asakusa shrine is one of the most visited shrines in Japan. Located in the heart of Tokyo it is almost always busy. It has a lot of shopping in the shrine grounds and around it. You can find all kinds of Souvenirs in the stalls leading up to the shrine.
The main area is the Shinto Temple with the Buddhist shrine located next to the temple. Best known for its large lantern in the main gate and the 5 story pagoda located near the main temple.
The main grounds are almost always packed with visitors. If you wish to have the area to yourself be prepared to go at dawn. There are only a few people around a dawn mainly those getting their exercise in.
The stalls in the temple area mainly sell souvenirs which in my opinion are over priced and can be found elsewhere around town cheaper.
When to go
If you want to spend time at the shrine by yourself go at dawn. If you want to experience the shrine in all it’s glory go in the late afternoon or evening.
There are many festivals held year round at the shrine. Check their web page to see if there is a festival happening while you are visiting.
What is Nearby?
Osaka has a lot to offer a visitor around the city.
- Asakusa
- Nakamise Shopping District
- Akihabara
- Tokyo Station
- Imperial Palace
- Ueno Park
- Tokyo Skytree
How to get there?
Asakusa shrine is located close to multiple metro stops. It is less then a 10 minute walk from many of them.
7 minutes on foot from Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station
7 minutes on foot from Asakusa Subway / Asakusa Line Asakusa Line
7 minutes on foot from Asakusa Station Tobu Line
The address is: 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
Hours of operation
The shrine grounds are open 24 hours a day. The shops and shrine services open around 8-10AM and run into the night.
Cost
The shrine is free and open to the public. There is shopping located within the shrine and around the shrine. You can also purchase fortunes and Ema from the shrine and the shrine offers a calligraphy service. As with all shrines it is customary to offer a donation if you are going to offer a prayer at the shrine.
Website
https://www.asakusajinja.jp/en/english/
http://www.senso-ji.jp/english/
