Senso-ji Temple is beautiful from every angle. However, because it is so popular, you might wonder, “Where is the best spot to take a photo?” or “How can I avoid the crowds?“
In this post, I will share 11 must-visit photo spots and some simple tips. Grab your camera and let’s take a walk through Asakusa!
Senso-ji is one of the few temples in Tokyo lit up every single night until 11:00 PM. As it gets later, there are fewer people, making it the perfect time to use a tripod and take long-exposure photos.
No.01: Kaminarimon Gate
This is the main entrance and the busiest spot. Even late at night, there are many people.
- Tip: Most people take photos from the front. Try going to the back of the gate—it is usually much quieter!
No.02: Hozomon Gate & the Five-Story Pagoda
This is the classic “Asakusa shot.” Capturing the massive gate and the tall pagoda together in one frame truly shows the spirit of the temple.
- Tip: To fit both Hozomon Gate and the Five-Story Pagoda in one shot, try shooting from the edge of the approach. It’s okay to use a tripod there without getting in anyone’s way.
No.03: Tradition Meets Modern: Tokyo Skytree
One of the coolest things about Senso-ji is seeing the historic temple next to the modern Tokyo Skytree. This contrast between the old and the new makes for a great photo.
- Tip: The spot where you can shoot the Pagoda and Tokyo Skytree together is quiet at night. It’s okay to use a tripod there without getting in anyone’s way.
No.04: Rainy Day Reflections
If it rains, don’t worry! Look at the puddles on the ground. You can catch a beautiful “mirror reflection” of the glowing temple buildings in the water.
- Tip: You can find puddles in many spots around the grounds after rain. When shooting, please be mindful of others so you don’t block the path.
No.5：. A Bird's-Eye View of Asakusa
Go to the 8th-floor terrace of the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center. From there, you can look down and see the entire lit-up temple grounds and Nakamise Street.
- Tip: Tripods are not allowed here. You’ll need to hold your camera over the terrace fence. Please stay safe, especially on windy days.
2. Early Morning: Have the Temple All to Yourself
If you want peaceful photos without the crowds, visit between sunrise and 7:00 AM.
No.06: The Main Hall through the Lantern
Stand near the Main Hall and look back toward the entrance. Use the giant lantern as a “frame” to take a photo of the long path leading away.
- Tip: The offertory box is at the bottom center of the frame. To avoid getting other visitors in your photo, shooting early in the morning is your best bet.
No.07: Skytree from Shin-Nakamise Street
This is a hidden gem nearby. From a gap in the shopping arcade roof, the Skytree “pops” its head out. The colorful shop signs give it a very local “Tokyo” feel.
No.08: Under the Giant Lanterns
During the day, it’s too crowded to stop, but in the morning, you can stand directly under the lanterns at Kaminarimon or Hozomon.
Look up! You will find a beautiful dragon carving hidden on the bottom.
- Tip: This photo shows the dragon carving on the bottom of the giant lantern at Hozomon Gate. You can also find a dragon carving on the Kaminarimon lantern.
3. Springtime: Cherry Blossoms & Red Temples
The contrast between the pink cherry blossoms and the bright red temple buildings is a symbol of Japanese beauty.
No.09: The Weeping Cherry Tree at Hozomon
This tree blooms a little earlier than others and is the star of springtime at Senso-ji. Try taking a photo of the gate and pagoda through the pink branches.
- Tip: The cherry tree gets very crowded during the day. It is lit up at night, so having a tripod will help you take a better shot.
No.10: Nakamise Street Blooms
As you walk the main path, look to your left for a large, beautiful cherry tree. When it is in full bloom, this is the most colorful spot in the area.
- Tip: This is a main path, so it’s hard to take your time with photos during the day. It gets very busy.
No. 11: Denpo-in Garden
This is a special garden that only opens for a short time in spring (entry fee required). It’s a “hidden spot” where you can photograph the temple across a quiet Japanese pond.
- Tip: I recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes for the narrow paths around the pond. Note that if you’re shooting the Japanese garden from the pond side, you’ll be facing the sun in the morning.
Summary: Quick Photo Tips
| Time | Vibe | Best Spots |
|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | Quiet and fresh | Kaminarimon / Main Hall |
| Sunset | Beautiful blue sky | Near the Skytree views |
| After 9:00 PM | Magical and calm | Five-Story Pagoda / Reflections |
Senso-ji shows a different side of itself depending on the time of day. Enjoy your walk and find your own favorite view!
Complete Sensoji Temple Guide Series
Explore our expert guides to master your Asakusa trip:
- [Part 1] Sensoji Overview: History and basic charms of Tokyo’s oldest temple.
- [Part 2] The Best Time to Visit: A seasonal and hourly matrix. Why 6:00 AM is the “Golden Hour,” and why a rainy night is actually the best for photos.
- [Part 3] Photo Spot Guide: How to find the perfect angle for the Five-Story Pagoda and how to take the best “Skytree x Temple” collaboration shots.
- [Part 4] The Truth About Omikuji (Coming Soon): How to draw your fortune correctly and what to do with the paper after you read it.
- [Part 5] Nakamise Street Directory (Coming Soon): A complete list of over 80 shops, from the best street food to traditional crafts.
