Written by Shyam Bhardwa
Head to the most famous shrine in Tokyo, Sensōji Temple, for a taste of tradition that’s elegant and enchanting — the White Heron Dance.
Pro tip: If you like this, you’ll also love the Golden Dragon Dance.
What happens?
The White Heron Dance is conducted to ward off evil and has been a tradition throughout Japan in some form for over 1,000 years.
During the show, performers dressed as warriors and herons dance to musicians playing traditional instruments. Meanwhile, children become guardians, acting out old Kyoto traditions as they travel through the streets of Asakusa.
Schedule
The dance is performed on the second Sunday of April (April 12 in 2026), at Sanja Matsuri in May, and November 3 each year.
There are two parades, and both take slightly different routes through the area. The first begins at 11 a.m., and starts at Sensōji Temple’s Denboin Gardens, before moving through the Nakamise Shopping Street, ending at the main hall of Sensōji Temple at 11:30 a.m., where performances will begin.
The second parade starts at 2 p.m. also at Denboin Gardens. It takes a longer route and passes through Orange Street and out towards Kaminarimon Gate. From there, it moves through Nakamise Shopping Street and ends up in front of Sensōji Temple’s main hall at 2:40 p.m., where performances will also begin.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.- 0.6 km from Asakusa Station Ginza Line (G19)Asakusa Line (A18)Tobu Skytree Line (TS1)
- 0.8 km from Tawaramachi Station Ginza Line (G18)
- 1.0 km from Honjo-azumabashi Station Asakusa Line (A19)
