Asakusa Shrine

The origin of Asakusa was when HINOKUMA-no-Hamanari and Takenari, who were fishermen brothers, found a Buddhist statue in 628. HAJI-no-Matsuchi built the Sensoji Temple to deify the Buddhist statue. Thhese three key persons have been enshrined in Asakusa Shrine.

The below picture shows the main hall of the Sensoji Temple.

Behind the Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine is located. To the east from the main hall of Sensoji Temple, you will find the "Nitenmon" Gate.

The gate was built in 1617, but so many original buildings in Sensoji Temple were destroyed during World War II, "Nitenmon" Gate remains as original and is designated as an important property of Japan.

Between the main hall of Sensoji Temple and the "Nitenmon" Gate, you will find the Trii Gate of Asakusa Shrine on your left. The Torii Gate is the entrance of Asakusa Shrine.

Behind the Torii Gate, the main Shrine buildings are located. These buildings were built in 1649 by the third "Shogun", TOKUGAWA Iemitsu (1604 - 1651) . These buildings are also designated as important properties of Japan.

It is unknown when Asakusa Shrine was originally built. But, considering that the Buddhist statue was found in 628, Asakusa Shrine should have a very long history.

How to get there
It is easy to go to Asakusa Shrine though Sensoji Temple. It will take you approximately 10 minutes on foot from Asakusa Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and the Tobu Line.

Other Historical Sites near by:
Ueno Park
Sensoji Temple
Denpoin Street in Asakusa
Tokyo Sky Tree