Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo, is the city’s oldest Buddhist temple, tracing its origins back to 645 AD when, according to legend, two fishermen pulled a statue of the deity Kannon from the Sumida River. The iconic Kaminarimon, or “Thunder Gate,” with its towering red lantern, marks the entrance to Nakamise Street, where rows of stalls offer traditional snacks, handcrafted goods, and souvenirs. A morning spent here reveals the temple’s deep cultural importance—visitors cleanse themselves with incense smoke from the Jokoro brazier, locals bow in quiet prayer, and the ornate main hall and five-tier pagoda stand as symbols of Japan’s enduring traditions. Documenting these moments through photography captures the harmony between centuries-old rituals and the vibrant energy of modern-day Tokyo.

Camera/lens: Fujifilm X-H2 Fujinon 70-300mm | Date: March 2025 | ©yegmund