
The Five-Story Pagoda of Sensoji Temple is one of the most iconic structures in Asakusa, alongside the Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) and the Main Hall. With its striking vermilion color and elegant architectural design, it stands as a symbol of both historical and modern Tokyo.
In this section, we will provide essential information about the pagoda, including its location, access, visiting hours, admission fees, and height.
目次(Table of Contents)
Location and Access to the Five-Story Pagoda
The Five-Story Pagoda of Sensoji Temple is located on the west side of the Main Hall, allowing visitors to admire its majestic presence while strolling through the temple grounds. As you walk through Nakamise Shopping Street from Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), you will see the Main Hall straight ahead, with the pagoda standing to the left in the background.
How to Get There
📍 Access Information
- About 5 minutes on foot from Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station
- About 5 minutes on foot from Tobu Skytree Line Asakusa Station
- About 7 minutes on foot from Toei Asakusa Line Asakusa Station (Exit A4)
- About 10 minutes on foot from Tsukuba Express Asakusa Station
The pagoda is surrounded by popular tourist attractions such as Nakamise Shopping Street, Tokyo Skytree, and Hanayashiki Amusement Park, making it a great spot to visit alongside these other destinations. One of the most popular photo opportunities is capturing the Five-Story Pagoda with Tokyo Skytree in the background, showcasing the harmony between tradition and modernity.
Visiting Hours & Admission Fees
The Five-Story Pagoda is generally open for viewing from the outside, and there is no admission fee. Visitors can freely explore the temple grounds and admire the pagoda's majestic structure.
However, the interior of the pagoda is occasionally open to the public during special periods, and an admission fee may be required at those times. It is recommended to check in advance for specific opening dates.
The Main Hall of Sensoji Temple is open from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM (from October to March, it opens at 6:30 AM), allowing early morning visits. For other temple buildings' opening hours, please contact Sensoji Temple directly.
📍 Address: 2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo
📞 Phone: 03-3842-0181 (Reception hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM, closed on Sundays and holidays)
Height and Features of the Sensoji Temple Five-Story Pagoda
The Five-Story Pagoda of Sensoji Temple stands at an impressive 53.32 meters (about 175 feet), making it one of the taller five-story pagodas in Japan. The structure consists of the main body, which is 48.32 meters (about 159 feet) high, and the top finial (sorin), which measures 15.07 meters (about 49 feet), creating a beautifully balanced architectural masterpiece.
Unlike traditional wooden pagodas, the current structure is built with reinforced concrete, ensuring enhanced durability and earthquake resistance. While incorporating modern construction techniques, it faithfully preserves the elegant appearance of classical Japanese pagodas.
In terms of scale, the pagoda is equivalent to a 15 to 20-story building, making it a striking landmark in Asakusa. Its brilliant vermilion color stands out against the sky, offering a different atmosphere between day and night. At night, the **pagoda is beautifully illuminated**, creating a mystical and captivating view that attracts many visitors.
Illumination of the Five-Story Pagoda
One of the most captivating features of the Five-Story Pagoda at Sensoji Temple is how it transforms from day to night. During the day, the vibrant vermilion exterior shines beautifully under the blue sky, highlighting its historic and majestic architecture. However, as night falls, the pagoda is illuminated, creating a magical and breathtaking scene that makes it a popular photo spot for visitors.
Illumination Schedule
The Five-Story Pagoda is illuminated daily from sunset until around 11:00 PM. The exact time of illumination varies with the seasons, as sunset occurs at different times throughout the year. Generally, the lights turn on at approximately 7:00 PM in summer and 5:00 PM in winter.
The most stunning time to capture the pagoda is during the "Blue Hour", just after sunset, when the sky takes on deep blue hues, providing a spectacular contrast to the pagoda's golden illumination. This creates a perfect opportunity for photography enthusiasts.
Recommended Viewing Spots
Five-Story Pagoda and Jokoro Incense Burner
One of the most iconic sights at Sensoji Temple is the Five-Story Pagoda standing behind the Jokoro (incense burner) This sacred incense burner is believed to bring good health, and many visitors gather here to waft the incense smoke over themselves before heading to the Main Hall. The combination of the rising smoke and the towering pagoda in the background creates a truly spiritual and photogenic scene.
The Vermilion Pagoda and Greenery
The brilliant vermilion color of the Five-Story Pagoda stands in striking contrast against the lush green trees in the temple grounds. This natural harmony between architecture and nature creates a peaceful and picturesque setting. The view from different angles allows visitors to appreciate the changing beauty of the pagoda throughout the seasons.
Nakamise Shopping Street and the Five-Story Pagoda
As you stroll through Nakamise Shopping Street, lined with traditional souvenir shops and street food vendors, the Five-Story Pagoda slowly comes into view in the distance. This walk offers a wonderful blend of historic ambiance and lively atmosphere, making it a memorable experience for visitors. Be sure to capture the contrast between the bustling street and the serene pagoda in the background.
Hozomon Gate and the Five-Story Pagoda
Standing between Hozomon Gate and the Five-Story Pagoda, visitors can admire two of Asakusa’s most significant landmarks in one frame. Hozomon, with its grand red lantern and massive wooden structure, provides a perfect foreground to the towering pagoda behind it. At night, both structures are illuminated, creating an enchanting and dramatic atmosphere.
History of the Five-Story Pagoda at Sensoji Temple
The Five-Story Pagoda of Sensoji Temple has a rich history dating back to 942 AD. Over the centuries, it has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times due to fires and wars. Each reconstruction reflects the enduring spiritual and cultural significance of the pagoda. Some of the most important milestones in its history include its initial construction during the Heian period, the Edo-era reconstruction under the Tokugawa shogunate, the destruction during World War II, and the modern reconstruction in 1973.
In this section, we explore the transformations of the Five-Story Pagoda through different eras, highlighting its resilience and importance as a cultural landmark.
The First Five-Story Pagoda (Built in 942 AD)
Source: Sensoji Temple Official Website
The original Five-Story Pagoda of Sensoji Temple was built in 942 AD by Taira no Kinmasa during the Heian period. This early pagoda was an important religious structure, symbolizing the deep-rooted Buddhist faith in Japan.
However, due to multiple fires and natural disasters over the centuries, the original structure did not survive. Despite these challenges, the pagoda was repeatedly rebuilt, demonstrating its spiritual and cultural significance to the people of Japan.
The pagoda has always been a symbol of protection and devotion, and its continued restoration throughout history reflects the resilience of Japanese heritage.
Reconstruction in the Edo Period and Destruction During World War II
In 1648, during the Edo period, the **Five-Story Pagoda of Sensoji Temple** was rebuilt under the order of Tokugawa Iemitsu, the third shogun of the Tokugawa Shogunate. This reconstruction showcased the architectural excellence of the Edo period, with intricate wooden craftsmanship and a grand design that made it a beloved landmark of Asakusa.
For centuries, the pagoda stood as a symbol of Buddhist devotion and cultural heritage. However, in 1945, during **World War II**, the pagoda was tragically destroyed in the **Tokyo air raids**. The firebombing devastated many historical landmarks, including parts of Sensoji Temple.
Despite this loss, the temple community and the people of Tokyo remained committed to restoring the pagoda. The desire to preserve tradition and honor the past led to the decision to reconstruct the pagoda once again in the post-war era.
Features of the Current Five-Story Pagoda (Rebuilt in 1973)
Source: Sensoji Temple Official Website
After the destruction of the previous structure during World War II, the Five-Story Pagoda of Sensoji Temple was reconstructed in 1973. Unlike its predecessors, the new pagoda was built using reinforced concrete, ensuring enhanced durability and earthquake resistance while maintaining the traditional architectural aesthetics.
The pagoda's exterior faithfully replicates the beauty of the original wooden design, featuring intricate details and the iconic vermilion hue that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding temple grounds. The structure integrates modern engineering with traditional craftsmanship, symbolizing the fusion of history and innovation.
One of the most significant features of the current pagoda is that its topmost level enshrines the sacred relics of Buddha (Shari). This adds deep spiritual meaning to the structure, making it not only a historic landmark but also a revered religious site.
Architectural Structure and Design of the Five-Story Pagoda
The Five-Story Pagoda of Sensoji Temple is a remarkable blend of traditional Japanese architecture and modern engineering. While maintaining the elegant appearance of historical pagodas, it has been reconstructed with reinforced concrete for enhanced durability and earthquake resistance.
One of the key structural features of the pagoda is its central pillar system (shinbashira), which allows the building to absorb seismic shocks effectively. Additionally, the intricate roof design and decorative elements showcase the craftsmanship and artistic heritage of Japan.
Compared to five-story pagodas in Kyoto or Nara, the Sensoji Pagoda stands out for its unique urban setting and brilliant vermilion color, which creates a striking contrast against the modern Tokyo skyline.
What is the Central Pillar Structure of the Five-Story Pagoda?
One of the most distinctive architectural features of the Five-Story Pagoda of Sensoji Temple is its central pillar structure (shinbashira). This traditional Japanese construction technique is designed to enhance the pagoda’s stability and earthquake resistance.
The shinbashira is a long vertical pillar that runs through the center of the pagoda but does not touch the ground. Instead, it is suspended inside the structure, allowing it to act as a shock absorber during earthquakes. This innovative design distributes seismic forces, minimizing damage to the building.
This earthquake-resistant structure has been used in Japanese pagodas for centuries, making them some of the most resilient wooden buildings in the world. The integration of this technique with modern materials in the Sensoji Pagoda ensures both historical authenticity and structural longevity.
Roof and Decorative Features
The Five-Story Pagoda of Sensoji Temple is renowned for its beautifully designed curved roofs and intricate decorations, which showcase the artistry of traditional Japanese temple architecture.
Each tier of the pagoda features gracefully sweeping eaves, which create a sense of lightness and elegance. The roofs are covered with carefully crafted tiles, enhancing both the aesthetic appeal and structural durability of the building.
The pagoda’s exterior is painted in a striking vermilion color, symbolizing protection against evil spirits. The contrast between the bright red walls and the dark roof tiles makes the pagoda a visually stunning landmark.
Additionally, detailed carvings and decorative elements, such as ornamental metal fittings and wooden embellishments, highlight the craftsmanship of Japanese artisans. These features contribute to the pagoda’s spiritual significance and historical value.
Differences Between the Five-Story Pagodas of Kyoto, Nara, and Sensoji
While Kyoto and Nara are home to many historic five-story pagodas, the Five-Story Pagoda of Sensoji Temple stands out due to its unique construction and urban setting in Tokyo.
One of the key differences is the construction material. Many pagodas in Kyoto and Nara, such as the ones at Horyu-ji Temple and To-ji Temple, are made of wood and have stood for centuries. In contrast, the Sensoji Pagoda was rebuilt in 1973 using reinforced concrete to ensure earthquake resistance while preserving its traditional appearance.
Another distinct feature is the height. The Sensoji Pagoda is 53.32 meters tall, making it one of the tallest pagodas in Japan. Pagodas in Kyoto and Nara, such as the To-ji Pagoda (55 meters) and the Kofuku-ji Pagoda (50 meters), are comparable in height but differ in architectural style.
Unlike the serene, nature-surrounded locations of Kyoto and Nara’s pagodas, the Sensoji Pagoda is set against the modern Tokyo skyline, offering a striking contrast between tradition and contemporary city life. This makes it a must-visit landmark for those exploring both historic and modern aspects of Japan.
Conclusion | Reasons to Visit the Five-Story Pagoda of Sensoji Temple
The Five-Story Pagoda of Sensoji Temple is a landmark that embodies history, architectural beauty, and spiritual significance. Standing at approximately 53 meters, it offers visitors a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage while blending seamlessly with the modern skyline of Tokyo.
During the daytime, the pagoda’s majestic vermilion structure creates a striking contrast against the blue sky, while at night, its illuminated form exudes a mystical charm. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or a photography fan, the pagoda provides countless opportunities to admire and appreciate its beauty.
Since its establishment in 942 AD, the pagoda has undergone multiple reconstructions, with the current structure rebuilt in 1973 using reinforced concrete. Despite these changes, it remains a symbol of resilience and faith, preserving its traditional elegance.
When visiting Sensoji Temple, don’t miss the chance to explore not only the Main Hall and Kaminarimon but also the Five-Story Pagoda. Experience the contrast between day and night and immerse yourself in the spiritual and historical charm of Asakusa!
<<Senso-ji Temple Highlights /Tokyo>>
– Covering spots like the Kaminarimon, Main Hall, food, and Goshuin stamps.
<<Senso-ji Temple Gates and Main Hall>>
– Featuring the Kaminarimon Gate, Hozomon Gate, and the Main Hall.
<<Asakusa Shopping Streets and Food>>
– Introducing Nakamise Street, Hisago Street, Nishi-Sando, and Okuyama Omairi-machi.