Sensoji Temple to Host First-Ever Grand Projection Mapping Event
For the first time in its 1,400-year history, Tokyo’s iconic Sensoji Temple will be the canvas for a spectacular projection mapping event.
Titled “ASAKUSA CULTURE & LIGHTS 2025,” the five-day event will run from Wednesday, December 3rd, to Sunday, December 7th, 2025.
Produced by Ikki Co., Ltd., the show will project magnificent images and digital animations onto the temple’s Hozomon Gate, five-story pagoda, and the Nitenmon Gate.
In addition to the free light show, the event will provide a rare, paid opportunity to enter the normally-closed Denpoin Garden, which will be open for special daytime and nighttime viewings for the first time in seven years.
Event Overview
The event is split into a free, large-scale projection mapping show and a special ticketed viewing of the temple’s private gardens.
Projection Mapping (Free Admission)
Magnificent projection mapping based on the 1,400-year history of Sensoji Temple will be projected onto the Hozomon Gate, five-story pagoda, and the Nitenmon Gate (an Important Cultural Property).
- Cost: Free, no prior registration required.
- Details: The main 6-minute (approx.) show on the Hozomon Gate and five-story pagoda will run on a continuous loop. A separate 3-minute show will loop on the Nitenmon Gate.
Organizers warn that large crowds are expected, especially just after the 5:30 PM start time, and recommend visiting later in the evening.
Admission to the grounds may be restricted due to congestion.
Special Daytime Viewing: Denpoin Garden & Ema Hall (Ticketed)
For the first time in seven years, the normally-closed Denpoin Garden (a designated scenic spot) and the Ema Hall will be open for a special daytime viewing.
The Ema Hall houses large votive plaques from historical artists like Utagawa Kuniyoshi.
- Cost: ¥5,000 (Advance reservation required).
- Hours: Timed entry slots are available from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
- Details: The viewing includes an audio guide for the Ema Hall (smartphone and earphones required). Photography is prohibited in the Ema Hall.
Special Nighttime Viewing: Denpoin Garden (Ticketed)
A special viewing of the Denpoin Garden, which will be fantastically illuminated.
This location also offers a unique view of the five-story pagoda projection mapping from within the garden.
- Cost: ¥3,000 (Advance reservation required).
- Hours: Timed entry slots are available from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Tickets
Tickets for the paid viewings are available online (via JTB, Ticket Pia, KKday, Lawson Ticket, etc.) and at select local counters, including the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center and Matsuya Asakusa.
Location
- Venue: Sensoji Temple
- Address: 2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Dates: Wednesday, December 3rd – Sunday, December 7th, 2025
- Hours (Projection Mapping): 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM (17:30 – 21:30)
- Hours (Daytime Garden Viewing): 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Last entry)
- Hours (Nighttime Garden Viewing): 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Last visit closes)
Event Details
| calendar_month DATE | Dec 03 2025 - Dec 07 2025 |
|---|---|
| schedule TIME | ALL DAY |
| payments Cost | FREE |
| info Website | Official Website |
| location_on Location | Sensoji Temple |
|---|---|
| map Area | Tokyo Asakusa |
| category CATEGORY | Art Illumination Museums Temples Tokyo |
This post may contain affiliate links, and Essential Japan may earn a commission if you purchase through them.
