The most direct route from Shinjuku to Senso-ji Temple uses the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line to Ginza (about 20 minutes), then the Ginza Line to Asakusa (about 10 minutes). Total: about 35 minutes and approximately 260 yen. Asakusa Station is a 5-minute walk from Senso-ji.
Quick Answer: Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line from Shinjuku to Ginza, then Ginza Line to Asakusa. 35 minutes, approximately 260 yen. The most direct Metro connection. Alternatively take the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line from Shinjuku to Higashi-Shinjuku then the Hanzomon Line.
Best Route
Marunouchi Line to Ginza, then Ginza Line (recommended): Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line (M, red) from Shinjuku (M08) toward Ikebukuro direction, then back toward Ginza direction. Wait, take the Marunouchi Line from Shinjuku toward the Ogikubo direction or toward the city. The correct direction from Shinjuku to Ginza is eastbound (toward Akasaka-Mitsuke and Ginza). About 20 minutes to Ginza (M16). Transfer to the Ginza Line toward Asakusa. 10 minutes.
JR and walk option: JR Yamanote Line from Shinjuku to Ueno (about 30 minutes, JR Pass). Walk 20 to 25 minutes from Ueno to Asakusa. Total about 55 minutes. Longer, but JR Pass covered.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: At Shinjuku Station, board the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line (M, red) from Shinjuku (M08). Take the train toward the city center direction (toward Shinjuku-Sanchome, Yotsuya, Akasaka-Mitsuke). About 20 minutes to Ginza (M16).
Step 2: At Ginza Station (G09/M16), transfer to the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line (G, orange) toward Asakusa (eastbound). About 10 minutes, 4 stops to Asakusa Station (G19).
Step 3: Exit Asakusa Station (G19) from Exit 1. Walk 5 minutes to the Senso-ji Kaminarimon gate.
Cost
Marunouchi Line + Ginza Line: Approximately 260 yen total. Not covered by JR Pass. Tokyo Metro 24-hour pass (600 yen) covers both lines.
Travel Time
Shinjuku to Senso-ji Kaminarimon: approximately 35 to 40 minutes total.
Taxi Option
A taxi from Shinjuku to Asakusa costs approximately 2,500 to 4,500 yen and takes 25 to 40 minutes. The Metro is faster and far cheaper during normal hours.
Best Option with Luggage
The Metro route is manageable with luggage. Shinjuku Marunouchi Line station and Asakusa Ginza Line station both have elevators. Asakusa has coin lockers near the station for bag storage before exploring the temple area.
Best Option Late at Night
Senso-ji grounds are open 24 hours. The Tokyo Metro Ginza Line from Asakusa runs until after midnight. The Marunouchi Line from Ginza to Shinjuku also runs until after midnight.
Nearby Guides
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Senso-ji from Shinjuku?
Depart Shinjuku by 7 am to reach Senso-ji before 8 am, which is the best time to see the temple before tour groups arrive. The early morning light on the Kaminarimon gate is the finest of the day.
Is there a faster route from Shinjuku to Asakusa?
The Marunouchi Lin- Ginza Line connection is one of the most direct. Some visitors take the JR Yamanote Line from Shinjuku to Ueno and walk (55 minutes total). The Metro route takes 35 to 40 minutes and is generally faster.
What should I see around Senso-ji besides the temple?
The Nakamise shopping arcade, the Senso-ji Five-Story Pagoda, the Asakusa Shrine (adjacent to the main hall), and the Sumida River waterfront nearby. From Asakusa, you can also walk to Tokyo Skytree in about 15 minutes.
