Hōzōmon, Buddhist temple gate in Asakusa, Japan
The Hōzōmon is a Buddhist gate serving as the second entrance to the Sensō-ji temple complex in Tokyo, rising approximately 22 meters high. The structure displays traditional East Asian architecture and was built with steel-reinforced concrete to ensure durability.
The original gate was built in 942 and experienced multiple destructions over the centuries due to fires and wars. The current steel-reinforced concrete structure was completed in 1964 as a modern reconstruction of the classical form.
The gate is known as Niōmon, named after the two massive guardian statues that greet visitors as they enter. These protectors form an important part of traditional temple architecture and show how people understand this as a sacred space.
The gate is located directly next to Asakusa Station, which connects with several train lines and provides easy access. From here visitors can walk easily to the temple and explore the surrounding area.
The gate displays two enormous straw sandals on its northern side, each about 4.5 meters long and weighing around 400 kilograms. These unusual objects are gifts from local craftspeople and rank among the most surprising details visitors discover.
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