(Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

Among the many options you have for attractions in Tokyo, Asakusa’s old temple should absolutely be at the top of the list.

Sensoji temple, it’s impressive Kaminarimon gate and the surrounding narrow streets filled with shops and food stalls are just the nostalgic taste of old Japan you’ll want to experience.

Founded in 645 A.D., Sensoji is the oldest temple in Tokyo and is dedicated to Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, who is said to embody the mercy of all Buddhas. According to the temple’s website, this important temple draws around 30 million visitors annually.

When you pass under the bright red Kaminarimon gate with its massive chochin lantern, access to the temple itself takes you down the stunning Nakamise-dori lined with many souvenir shops. You may be surprised to learn that many of these shops have been run by the same families for over 150 years!

Continue your walk through Hozomon, a wooden gate known as the treasure gate, before entering the main temple grounds. There you’ll notice the elaborately detailed main hall up ahead and a five-story pagoda to the left. It is one of the best photo spots at the temple so don’t miss it!

As you approach the main hall, purify yourself like the locals with the incense smoke billowing out of the huge bronze domed burner. The smoke is thought to ward off illness and misfortune while making visitors smarter and healthier.

(Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

(Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

(Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

(Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

After making a wish at Kannon in front of the statue of Bodhisattva of Mercy in the main hall, visitors can pick an omikuji, fortune slip, at the temple shop to test your luck.

To do this, pick up a bamboo stick from a wooden container nearby and give it to a young lady in a white kimono and red pants. Be sure to ask her for an English-written slip, which will tell you the current condition of your luck. I hope you will pick a lucky one.

If you’re hungry or thirsty, the surrounding area has many izakaya bars, teahouses and restaurants you’ll definitely want to try. Keep an eye out for the various street performers, so you can enjoy a meal and show while you rest for a while.