Asakusa

What to do in Asakusa

Sensō-ji Temple

Explore the historic Senso-ji Temple, a Buddhist temple dedicated to the bodhisattva Kannon. Admire the stunning architecture, participate in traditional rituals, and take in the spiritual ambiance of this famous temple.

Kaminarimon Gate

Visit the majestic Kaminarimon Gate, decorated with a giant chōchin lantern. This iconic landmark serves as the outer gate of Sensō-ji temple and welcomes visitors to the vibrant streets of Asakusa.

Tokyo Sky Tree

In Tokyo Skytree, get the chance to see panoramic views of Asakusa, located across the Sumida River from Asakusa.

Nakamise Shopping Street

The Nakamise shopping street spans about 250 meters from Kaminarimon to the main area of Sensoji Temple. The lively shopping street includes over 50 shops selling local delights, including katana samurai swords, animal-shaped candy, and typical tourist souvenirs.

Sumida Park

The riverside park extends along both banks of the Sumida River for a few hundred meters. During spring, it transforms into a favored spot to view cherry blossoms, and on the last Saturday of July, it lights up for the Sumida River Fireworks event.

Don Quijote Asakusa

Don Quijote Asakusa is a well-known store in Japan, mostly visited by tourists and hosting various events. This general discount store is all about convenience, discounts, and fun. It's conveniently located just a minute's walk from Tsukuba Express Asakusa Station. You'll find all kinds of products here, from food and cosmetics to clothing and brand items, making it a great spot to shop for souvenirs.

Asakusa Shrine

Asakusa Shrine, also called Sanja-sama, dates back to the Edo Period and survived the bombings of 1945. It's annual festival, the Sanja Matsuri, is a major event in Tokyo, drawing large crowds. This vibrant festival takes place every year over the weekend in mid-May, showcasing traditional performances and attracting many visitors.

Tips for Your Asakusa Visit

When is the best time to visit Asakusa?

Plan your trip to Asakusa during the spring festival season or the vibrant Sanja Matsuri in May to see the neighborhood come alive with colorful celebrations. You can avoid the summer heat and crowds by visiting in the cooler months of autumn.

How to go to Asakusa?

Travel to Asakusa with ease using the Tokyo Station lines, including the JR Chuo Line, Tokyo Metro Ginza Line or the Tobu Skytree Line reaching Asakusa Station, both providing convenient access to key attractions. You can also take a leisurely cruise down the Sumida River for a scenic view of the district.

How long does it take to explore Asakusa?

Asakusa is an absolute must when exploring Tokyo. You can choose to wander around Asakusa on foot or go for a unique experience on a guided rickshaw tour, known as a jinrikisha, costing around 9000 yen for a 30-minute ride for two. Shorter and longer routes are also available, giving you different perspectives of this historic district.

Where to stay in Asakusa?

You can find traditional ryokans (Japanese inns), modern hotels, guesthouses, and even capsule hotels in the area. Some popular places to stay in Asakusa include ryokans like Asakusa Ryokan Toukaisou, modern hotels like Asakusa View Hotel, and budget-friendly options like K's House Tokyo.

Where to eat in Asakusa?

In Asakusa, you can try local cuisine at Kamiya Bar, known for its history and unique drinks; Umezono for traditional Japanese sweets; Suzukien Nanaya Gelato for rich green tea gelato; Asakusa Kagetsudo for traditional snacks like melon-pan treats; and various tempura and unagi restaurants with a century-old history in serving delicious dishes like deep-fried seafood and freshwater eel.