Tag Archives: Sensõ-ji Temple

A visit to the oldest Sensõ-ji temple in Tokyo

Sensō-ji is Tokyo’s oldest and most historically significant Buddhist temple, located in the Asakusa district of Tokyo.  It was founded in the year 628 CE, making it nearly 1,400 years old.

Inside the Temple Grounds of Sensõ-ji

We arrived in the morning to explore the temple. It was a perfect day and the cherry trees were beginning to blossom. There were large crowds already there exploring the temple grounds.

Shelley at the entrance of the Sensõ-ji temple area

We entered into the grounds of the temple and began to explore the different areas. We came to the main temple area and we were struck by its unique style and details.

We  explored several of the structures which had specific purposes of the temple.

Ray and Shelley at the Sensõ-ji Temple
ceremonial floats carried by worshipers in the annual ceremony.

The structures were very detailed and quite interesting to see. We came across the Buda and other statues of the temple.


There was a traditional marriage ceremony happening while we were there. It was quite interesting to watch as the bride and groom where pulled through the temple walkway in the carriage wearing the traditional clothing.

Our guide explained to us how the white headpiece of the bride  is called a tsunokakushi, which literally means “horn-hiding.” According to tradition and folklore, this head covering is meant to conceal the bride’s metaphorical “horns,” representing feelings like jealousy or ego. Which may come out later in the marriage.

Traditional kimono worn by many at the temple

The culture and dress were extraordinary and quite interesting to see. We walked throughout the temple area looking at all the uniqueness and details. It was an experience that was enjoyable and memorable.


Sensō-ji is a spiritual site blending ancient traditions with modern Tokyo life. 

「時は矢のごとく過ぎ去る。」