Asakusa-Kannon-Temple
Asakusa-Kannon-Temple, officially known as Senso-ji, is Tokyo's oldest temple, dedicated to the bodhisattva Kannon, also known as the Goddess of Mercy. Here are some detailed insights into this iconic landmark:
History
- Senso-ji was founded in the year 645 AD during the reign of Empress Kogyoku. Legend has it that two brothers, Hinokuma Hamanari and Hinokuma Takenari, found a statue of the bodhisattva Kannon while fishing in the nearby Sumida River. The temple was built to enshrine this statue.
- The temple complex was completed in 645, and it has since become a major center for Buddhist devotion in Tokyo.
- The original buildings were destroyed in World War II during the bombing of Tokyo in 1945, but they were rebuilt in 1958.
Architecture and Features
- Kaminarimon Gate: Known as the Thunder Gate, it is the outer gate of the temple. The gate features large lanterns, including the famous red paper lantern.
- Nakamise-dori: This is the shopping street leading from Kaminarimon to the temple's second gate, Hozomon. It is one of the oldest shopping streets in Japan, selling traditional Japanese goods and souvenirs.
- Hozomon Gate: Also known as the Treasure Gate, it houses two large straw sandals and serves as the inner gate of the temple. It also contains statues of the wind god Fujin and the thunder god Raijin.
- Main Hall: The main hall, or Hondo, contains the principal object of worship, the Kannon statue, which is only displayed during special occasions.
Cultural Significance
- Asakusa-Kannon-Temple is not just a religious site but also a symbol of Tokyo's historical continuity amidst its modern development. It attracts millions of visitors every year, both tourists and worshippers.
- The temple hosts various festivals, with the most famous being the Sanja Matsuri, one of the three great Shinto festivals in Tokyo, where mikoshi (portable shrines) are paraded through the streets.
Visiting Information
- The temple is open to visitors from early morning until late evening, with specific hours varying by season.
- There is no admission fee for the temple grounds, though donations are welcome.
- The temple area can be very crowded, especially during weekends, holidays, and festivals.
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