[Tokyo] Sensoji Temple, one of Japan's most famous tourist destinations

Sensoji Temple is a temple with one of the largest temple complexes in Tokyo, and has long been known as the "Kannon of Asakusa." It
is one of the oldest temples in Tokyo, and has been revered as a presence that watches over the development of the surrounding area throughout the ages.
During the reign of Empress Suiko, a Kannon statue was discovered in a nearby river. After this statue was worshipped as the principal image, the temple began to flourish.

Photo by Richard, enjoy my life! – Sensoji Temple / Size-adapted.

It was during the Edo period that Sensoji Temple grew into a large temple, and was highly revered by the common people of Edo.
At the same time, it was highly trusted by the Tokugawa shogunate, and established itself as a temple that symbolized the downtown area.
Various festivals were held during the Edo period, and the Ground Cherry Market remains an event that continues to this day.

Kaminarimon Gate, standing majestically on the south side, is one of the symbolic buildings of Sensoji Temple.
A huge lantern hangs in the center, and the building's unique aesthetic is also distinctive.
After being destroyed by fire at the end of the Edo period, Kaminarimon was not rebuilt for a long time, but was restored after the war and has returned to its magnificent state.
Today, the building is popular with foreign tourists, and is known for its ability to perfectly represent the Edo atmosphere.

Once you pass through Kaminarimon Gate, you will see the long shopping street in front of the gate. This shopping street is called Nakamise and has been popular since ancient times. The
current Nakamise was rebuilt after the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, and just like Kaminarimon Gate, it has a unique atmosphere. Nakamise has many stores selling traditional souvenirs, and is always bustling with tourists throughout the year.

As you pass Nakamise, you will come across the large main hall, which was rebuilt after the war damage.
The magnificent main hall boasts beautiful colors and curves of its tiled roof, and it contrasts beautifully with the surrounding five-story pagoda and Tokyo Skytree. It
gets very busy during the New Year's first shrine visit of the year, but it is also a popular tourist destination even on regular weekends.
The large temple complex of Sensoji Temple is lit up at night, creating a fantastic night view that is a real attraction.

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