Before coming to Tokyo, I had heard about the majestic Sensoji Temple (Asakusa Kannon Temple). Many people told me it's a must-visit attraction. Thus, we made sure we did not give it a miss. We took the train to Asakusa Station (Tobu Isesaki Line, North exit). When approaching the temple, we passed through the Kaminarimon, Thunder Gate, and the outer gate of the Sensoji. You should not miss taking a photograph under the giant lantern (see photo below). The gate leads to Nakamise Dori, a shopping street of over 200 metres. At the other end of this street is the temple's main gate, the Hozomon.
The street shops are a great place to shop for souvenirs: kimonos, yukatas, key-chains, foldable fans, ornaments, t-shirts, lanterns, and much more. You can even get very cute gifts parcels in many different shapes and sizes. Nakamise Dori offers a few good local, traditional snacks, like the rice crackers (you must try the freshly fried and soya salted ones – they’re extremely addictive!). Also available was Agemanju, a deep-fried, soft cake with red bean-paste filling. You can easily spend two hours just shopping and appreciating the food.
Beyond the Hozomon main gate is Sensoji Temple's main building, and on the left is a five-story pagoda. Before entering the main building, you may wash up at a small hut beside the street. We followed what the Japanese did. We cleaned our faces and hands. Once in the temple, you will realize that many people are frantically shaking hexagonal containers of numbered sticks. When one of the sticks "pops" out of the container, they will look at the number and search for a corresponding charm paper at the cabinets beside the shrine. They do this to ask the god to tell them their futures. You may make an offering by lighting a candle beside the shrine, and please remember to put some money (minimum 50 yen) into the money box. In and around the temple, you may be able to put a few charm bags; there are different ones for love, wealth, health, and prosperity. Outside the main temple, there are different altars, which you may find interesting. The Japanese we witnessed started to rub their cheeks and forehead, we believe it brings good luck!