How to Use the Temizuya (Purification Fountain) in Asakusa

A Simple & Stress-Free Guide for First-Time Visitors

When you arrive in Asakusa and head toward Sensoji Temple,
one of the first things many visitors wonder is:

“What is this place, and what am I supposed to do here?”

That place is called the Temizuya, also known as a purification fountain.

If this is your first time visiting a Japanese temple,
it’s completely normal to feel unsure:

• What is it for?
• Is there a correct way to use it?
• Am I going to do something wrong?

Don’t worry 😊
In this article, I’ll explain how to use the Temizuya at Sensoji Temple in a simple and easy-to-follow way.
You don’t need to memorize everything—just relax and enjoy the experience.

What Is a Temizuya?

A Temizuya is a place where visitors cleanse their hands and mouth before praying.

It’s a traditional Japanese custom found at temples and shrines,
meant to help you prepare your mind and body before worship.

Rather than strict rules, it’s more about a mental reset—
a small moment to say, “I’m about to visit a sacred place.”

Even if you’re not familiar with the customs,
it’s very unlikely that you’ll be seen as disrespectful.

Where Is the Temizuya at Sensoji Temple?

• The Temizuya at Sensoji Temple is located to the left of the main hall
• Water flows from dragon-shaped spouts
• Thin hoses are attached to the dragon mouths
→ to prevent water from splashing too much
• This design helps keep the area clean, especially on busy

How to Use the Temizuya: 4 Simple Steps

This is the standard way to use the Temizuya at Sensoji Temple.

① Clean Your Left Hand

Hold the ladle (hishaku) with your right hand.
Scoop water and pour it over your left hand.

② Clean Your Right Hand

Switch the ladle to your left hand.
Scoop water and pour it over your right hand.

③ Rinse Your Mouth

Hold the ladle again with your right hand.
Pour a small amount of water into your left hand and gently rinse your mouth.

Important points:
• Do NOT put your mouth directly on the ladle
• Do NOT drink the water
• Spit the water out discreetly after rinsing

④ Clean the Ladle Handle

Stand the ladle upright and let the remaining water run down the handle.
Return it neatly to its original place.

You Don’t Have to Do Everything Perfectly

Even many Japanese people:

• Clean only their hands
• Skip rinsing their mouth

This is especially common when it’s crowded or very cold.

The most important thing is not perfection, but intention.
If you’re unsure, just remember this:

👉 Cleaning your hands is enough.

That alone is completely acceptable.

Tips for Using the Temizuya at Sensoji Temple

• Don’t block the walkway or stay too long
• Be mindful of others if you take photos
• During busy times, follow the flow of people

Asakusa is a very popular tourist area,
and a little consideration goes a long way.

Photo Note: Weather & Atmosphere

The photos used in this article were taken on December 27, 2025.
• Temperature: 6°C (43°F)
• It was very cold, and most visitors were wearing winter coats
• There was no strong wind, so it felt cold but calm

This kind of winter atmosphere is very typical in Asakusa at this time of year.

Summary: When in Doubt, Just Clean Your Hands

The Temizuya at Sensoji Temple is easy to use, even for first-time visitors.

You don’t need to remember every step.
Just approach it with curiosity and respect,
and enjoy experiencing a small part of Japanese culture.

After that, your visit to Sensoji Temple will feel even more special.

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