Returning to Sensoji
On the afternoon of August 14, 2025, around 3 PM, I walked the stone paths of Sensoji Temple once again. Unlike the elegant cherry blossom season of last year, summer’s Sensoji revealed a different kind of lively energy.
On my way to Kaminarimon, I passed the corner of “Tokyo Jinriki” rickshaw shop, where staff members stood inside waiting for customers. Tourists flowed back and forth, creating the most authentic daily scene of Sensoji in Tokyo.
The Scene at Kaminarimon
The crowds in front of Kaminarimon almost spilled onto the main road. Under the sunlight, the massive red lantern was particularly striking—the lantern bearing the characters “Kaminarimon” was so enormous that I estimated four or five people could easily fit inside it.
Rickshaw pullers greeted their passengers in front of Kaminarimon, their bright smiles and energy filling the entire street.
Nakamise-dori and Kobunacho Lantern
Passing through Kaminarimon, Nakamise-dori shopping street stretched endlessly with crowds as far as the eye could see. Despite the many tourists, the flow remained smooth, and everyone was immersed in this vibrant atmosphere.When I caught sight of the large Kobunacho lantern in the distance, I looked to the left and found a Kannon statue surrounded by green leaves, radiating a peaceful atmosphere amid the bustling crowds.
At the end of Nakamise-dori, I could see the gate with the large Kobunacho lantern. Kobunacho was actually the name of a shopping street near Nihonbashi during the Edo period. The people there were grateful for the blessings of Sensoji’s Kannon, so they donated this lantern and have maintained it ever since.
Behind the gate hung a pair of giant straw sandals, symbolizing protection from evil and safeguarding the temple. These large sandals are offerings from Sensoji’s supporters and believers, using their massive power to protect the temple and worshippers, praying for peace and safety.
Around the Main Hall
In the main hall area, gentle smoke from burning incense drifted softly through the air. Fortune-telling cylinders stood around, reminding me of the “great fortune” slip I drew here last year. This year, I chose simply to capture these moments through my lens.
The main hall’s Shijinbashi lantern was donated by Konosuke Matsushita, founder of Matsushita Electric (Panasonic). He believed that business development and social prosperity are inseparable, so he donated this lantern to express his gratitude to Sensoji.
The Buddha statues within the temple each had their own character. Kannon, Tathagata, and Jizo Bodhisattva all radiated solemn and ancient dignity.
I was particularly drawn to the miniature waterfall—such an exquisite water feature within the ancient temple grounds. In another spot, I also saw many foreign tourists taking photos in kimono, creating a beautiful scene of East-West cultural fusion.
An Unexpected Discovery
Before leaving, I wandered into the alleyway shopping district and unexpectedly discovered statues of the “Shiranami Gonin Otoko”! These characters from classic Japanese literature are scattered throughout different corners of the shopping street, as if playing hide-and-seek with visitors. However, it seems one finger of their leader “Nippon Daemon” is broken—doesn’t anyone care about him?
Even in the crowded atmosphere, summer’s Sensoji Temple is still worth savoring carefully.
