Hi there! I’m Monaka, a local dad raising two kids right here in Asakusa and the editor of Asakusa Walker.
Are you thinking about visiting Senso-ji Temple for Hatsumode (the first shrine/temple visit of the year)? You might be worried: “Will my kids get tired of the crowds?” or “Can I navigate with a stroller?”
I’ve been there many times with my own kids. Based on my experience, I’ve put together a guide on how to enjoy Asakusa’s New Year festivities without the stress. Here is the “Local Dad’s Guide” to the best times to visit, crowd-dodging tips, and how to enjoy the food stalls!
The “Monaka Style” Two-Step Strategy
If you want to avoid peak crowds and keep your family smiling, here is my #1 recommendation:
The Two-Step Strategy:
- Visit Asakusa Shrine (right next to the main temple) during the first three days (Jan 1–3) to soak up the festive atmosphere.
- Save the Senso-ji Main Hall prayer for January 4th or later.
Why avoid the Main Hall during the first three days? The biggest bottleneck is the massive line stretching from Kaminarimon Gate to the Main Hall. If you aren’t set on throwing a coin into the main offering box immediately, you can enter the temple grounds from the side without waiting in that line!
- Zero Wait Time
- Skip the hours-long queue and go straight to the food stalls and fortune-telling (Omikuji).
- Less Physical Strain
- Standing still in a crowd is tough on parents’ backs and kids’ patience.
- Flexibility
- If the kids get hungry or bored, you can move freely to snacks or a walk.
For Those Who “Must” Visit the Main Hall (Jan 1–3)
If you are visiting from far away and want to pray at the Main Hall during the first three days, timing is everything.
Main Hall Opening Hours (New Year Period)
| Date | Hours |
| Jan 1st | 0:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Jan 2nd & 3rd | 6:30 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Jan 4th – 7th | 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
The Best Times to Go
- Best Choice: Early Morning (6:30 AM – 7:00 AM)
- The crowd is thinnest right when the doors open. If you can get the kids up early, you’ll be finished before the rush starts at 8:00 AM.
- Hidden Gem: Late Evening (7:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
- Many families head home for dinner, so the wave of visitors thins out. Note: Some food stalls and amulet shops might be closing.
The Route Map: Navigating the Crowds
During the first three days, the path from Kaminarimon Gate through Nakamise-dori is strictly one-way.
- Pro-Tip 1: Use a Baby Carrier. Strollers are dangerous in these crowds and difficult to carry up the temple stairs. I highly recommend a carrier for this visit.
- Pro-Tip 2: Meet up BEFORE you line up. Once you enter the queue, you cannot wait for latecomers or join halfway.
After the Prayer: Which Exit Should You Take?
Once you finish your prayer at the Main Hall, you have two choices. Choose based on your next plan!
Right Side Exit (Traditional Vibes)
- Leads to Asakusa Shrine (Sanja-sama). Perfect for the “Two-Step Strategy.” The food stalls here have a nostalgic, “old-school festival” feel.
Left Side Exit (Dad’s Recommendation for Families!)
The path is wider and well-paved. It’s much easier to walk with tired kids. You’ll find great photo spots with the Five-Story Pagoda in the background and the “Okuyama Omamiri-machi” shopping street with modern sweets.
Enjoying the Food Stalls (Yatai)
The food stalls are the highlight of the New Year!
- Alcohol Note
- As of 2026, food stalls within Senso-ji grounds generally do not sell alcohol. However, stalls at the neighboring Asakusa Shrine often do!
- Seating
- The Left Side of the temple has more benches near the Five-Story Pagoda, making it easier to sit and eat with children.
A Quick Note on Asakusa Shrine (Sanja-sama)
Don’t forget the shrine next door! It’s dedicated to the founders of Senso-ji.
- Temple Etiquette
- Quiet prayer with hands joined (no clapping).
- Shrine Etiquette
- Bow twice, clap twice, then bow once.
Parking & Access
I strongly recommend public transport. If you must drive, be aware of “New Year Special Rates”—some parking lots remove their price caps, and you could end up with a massive bill!
- Search Area: Look for parking on the North side (behind the Main Hall) to avoid the traffic closures near Kaminarimon.
Final Thoughts
The most important part of Hatsumode isn’t the ritual—it’s starting the year with family smiles. Instead of getting exhausted in the middle of a crowd, I prefer seeing my kids’ faces light up as they eat a tasty snack from a stall.
I hope you have a wonderful, “Asakusa-style” New Year! I look forward to seeing your family around the neighborhood.
もなかHappy New Year!