Kaminarimon, which means thunder or lightning gate, is the beginning of the approach to Sensōji Temple in Asakusa.

A giant lantern with the character for lightning written on it, hangs from the vermillion gate. The iconic lantern makes for one of the most popular photograph backdrops in Tokyo.

Kaminarimon is a also popular spot for rickshaw drivers looking to pick up their next ride. If you don’t want to negotiate on the spot, you can also book a rickshaw tour online.

Suggested Activity
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Experience one of the craziest, most colorful places in Tokyo — the all-new Samurai Restaurant, from the creators of the Robot Restaurant. Get your tickets and sit back for a wild show of lasers, lights, samurai, dancers and other uniquely Japanese weirdness.

Once you pass through the gate, you will be on Nakamisedōri avenue, a pedestrian-only street lined with souvenir shops.