Hōzōmon Gate, Tokyo

Next stop on your Asakusa adventure is the Hōzōmon Gate—part grand entrance, part historical vault, and all-around scene-stealer at Senso-ji Temple.

Now, don’t let the elegant red facade fool you—this gate has seen things. Big things. Originally built way back in 942 by military man Taira no Kinmasa—who, legend has it, landed his dream job as Lord of Tokyo thanks to a few strategic prayers at Senso-ji—this gate was his giant “thank you” card. Unfortunately, it didn’t last forever. Fire took the original out in 1631. Luckily, Tokugawa Iemitsu, the 3rd Shogun, who said, “No worries, I got this,” had it rebuilt—only for World War II to throw another fiery tantrum.

But like any great action hero, the Hōzōmon returned stronger. Today’s version is steel-reinforced and fire-resistant, built to protect not just history—but literal treasures.

Speaking of which: inside the upper floor, check out a veritable Buddhist treasure chest. We’re talking a copy of the Lotus Sutra (national treasure, mind you!), and the Issai Kyo, the ultimate Buddhist script collection, officially labeled an Important Cultural Property. Yep, capital letters and everything...

But that’s not all. Standing guard are two towering 5.5-meter-tall Nio statues—basically Buddha’s bodyguards with permanent scowls and a serious gym routine. Look up, and you’ll see three huge (each weighing a ton of kilos!) lanterns, including a fire-engine red chochin lantern donated in 2003 to mark 400 years since the Edo period kicked off. Nice touch, right?

And if you’re wondering about the giant straw sandals hanging at the back? Those are the Waraji—massive, traditional footwear meant for the Nio guardians. Because even statues need to walk in style.

So there you have it—Hōzōmon: part gateway, part time capsule, all drama.