Welcome to Asakusa, Tokyo’s spiritual ground zero. Here, amidst the neon hyper-modernity of the world’s biggest metropolis, stands a temple founded in the year 645 AD.
### Tour Walkthrough Steps:
#### Stop 1: Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate)
Stand before the colossal 700-kilogram red lantern hanging beneath Kaminarimon Gate. Look to the left and right at the fierce wooden guardians: Fujin (God of Wind) on the right holding his wind bag, and Raijin (God of Thunder) on the left beating his circle of drums. Look under the bottom of the lantern to admire the exquisite carved wooden dragon!
#### Stop 2: Nakamise Shopping Street
Wander down the 250-meter ancient approach path lined with 89 small family shops. For over 300 years, pilgrims have snacked here. Stop to try Ningyo-yaki (sponge cake filled with sweet red bean paste stamped in temple shapes) and warm Senbei rice crackers toasted over charcoal with soy sauce.
#### Stop 3: The Incense Burner (Jokoro)
Before ascending the temple stairs, approach the giant bronze incense cauldron. Waft the fragrant holy smoke over your head, shoulders, and body. In Japanese tradition, the smoke cures physical ailments and brings wisdom to your mind.
#### Stop 4: Omikuji Fortune Lotteries
For 100 yen, shake the silver hexagonal canister until a numbered bamboo stick pops out. Find the matching wooden drawer to pull your fortune! If you draw *Daikichi* (Great Blessing), keep it in your wallet. If you draw *Kyo* (Bad Fortune), don't panic — tie the paper strip tightly to the temple wire racks to leave the bad luck behind in Buddha's hands.
#### Stop 5: Senso-ji Main Hall (Hondo)
Step into the soaring main hall where the golden statue of Kannon, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, has been enshrined for nearly 1,400 years. Toss a coin into the wooden slatted offering box (*Saisenbako*), bow twice, clap twice, and make a silent wish.
