We woke up early in the morning just so we can cover as much as we can for one day. First stop was Senso-ji Temple, which is the oldest temple in Tokyo. In the morning, it was not crowded at all and even most shops were still closed so I guess this is the best time to visit the temple.
Still a quiet morning after seeing this series of red-gated shops along the way to the temple.
Before reaching the oldest temple in Tokyo, the Senso-ji Temple, we passed by a stretch full of closed shops at 8 AM. I enjoyed it because I did not have to battle with others since I had an impression that it will be packed soon. And that my photos won’t be filled up with more people than the site.
One of those streets we passed by on our way to Senso-ji Temple. Very clean!White lanterns with calligraphy surrounding the area near the temple. I was so excited to see the temple next.The white lanterns with calligraphy beside the Kaminarimon Gate (Thunder Gate). Welcome to Senso-ji Temple!This is the outer gate of Sensoji Temple and the symbol of Asakusa and the entire city of Tokyo called Kaminarimon or Thunder Gate. The statues of Fujin (wind god) and Raijin (thunder god) stand at either side of the gate.We were fully aware that the cherry blossom season has already passed. But upon seeing this, we were so thrilled! The five-storied pagoda is on the right.I was so delighted to finally see and touch real cherry blossoms. They were so gorgeous that they looked like plastic! Amazing!
Aha, according to this “How to visit a shrine” article, “At the purification fountain near the shrine’s entrance, take one of the ladles provided, fill it with fresh water and rinse both hands. Then transfer some water into your cupped hand, rinse your mouth and spit the water beside the fountain. You are not supposed to transfer the water directly from the ladle into your mouth or swallow the water. You will notice that quite a few visitors skip the mouth rinsing part or the purification ritual altogether.” Ahh, better now to be informed!
At the time of the visit, we were not sure what this was. After some reading, this is the purification fountain before entering the temple.
I remember we were standing there watching people as they did the process and speculating what they could be doing. We even thought that they were drinking the water since they bring the water from the cupped hand to the mouth. It is really never good to assume. =)
Now, let’s walk into the main hall, Hondo. The big, red lantern welcoming all tourists before they enter the hall.The big red lantern in front of the main hall, Hondo, overlooking the Kaminarimon or Thunder Gate.The detailed paintings on the ceilings of the main hall, Hondo. Wow!People who were offering their prayers inside Hondo, the main hall of the temple.This is Hondo’s interior, the main hall of Senso-ji temple.A massive door handle of Hondo, the main hall of Senso-ji Temple, on my way out.Outside Hondo, the main hall of Senso-ji Temple, is this monkey structure beautifully surrounded with vibrant flowers.
After completing the ocular inspection of Senso-ji Temple, we scanned our itinerary to see if we can squeeze in some sites planned for supposedly-yesterday’s tour. And yes, we decided to scour the Odaiba area.
This is what I have been looking for! Very useful, especially to those first time traveling to Japan. Thanks!
Thank you so much! ☺ Enjoy!
Amazing descriptions and photos!! Revisiting Tokyo 🙂
Thank you Manish! Still working on our crazy story. 😀