Visit the Sensō-ji Temple

The magnificent Sensō-ji Temple (Kinry-zan Sens-ji), the city's most well-known shrine, stands at the end of a lengthy street market with vendors selling toys, kimonos, fabrics, carvings, combs made of ebony and wood, and precious paper goods.

The temple was founded in AD 645 and is dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of compassion. Despite being extensively restored, the temple still has its original appearance. The Kaminari-mon Gate, with its 3.3-meter-high red paper lantern bearing the inscription "Thunder Gate," and the well-known Incense Vat, which is said to ward off illnesses (you'll see people cupping their hands around the smoke and applying it to the part of their bodies needing healing), are both highlights of a visit. The fascinating temple doves, which are believed to be Kannon's sacred messengers, are also noteworthy. Make sure to put a coin in the Omikuji boxes by the door so you may get a piece of paper with your fortune on it.