Asakusa is one of Tokyo's most charming neighborhoods, where old Japan meets modern city life. This historic district gives you a real taste of traditional Tokyo with its ancient temples, narrow streets, and local shops. Whether you're visiting for a day or spending more time exploring, here are the 12 best things you can't miss in Asakusa.
1. Visit Sensoji Temple
Sensoji Temple
Sensoji Temple is the heart and soul of Asakusa. Built in 645 AD, it's Tokyo's oldest temple and one of the most visited spots in the entire city. The moment you walk through the giant red Kaminarimon Gate with its massive paper lantern, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time.
The temple grounds are beautiful any time of year, but especially stunning during cherry blossom season in spring. Take your time walking around, watch locals pray, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Don't forget to stop at the large incense burner in front of the main hall—many people wave the smoke over themselves because it's believed to bring good health.
If you want to learn more about the temple's rich history and hidden details, consider joining a walking tour of Asakusa that includes expert commentary about the area's cultural significance.
2. Shop Along Nakamise Shopping Street
Nakamise Shopping Street
Right after you pass through Kaminarimon Gate, you'll find yourself on Nakamise Shopping Street—a 250-meter covered walkway packed with around 90 small shops. This is one of Japan's oldest shopping streets, dating back several centuries.
Here you can buy traditional snacks like senbei (rice crackers), ningyo-yaki (small cakes filled with red bean paste), and fresh mochi. The street also sells beautiful souvenirs, including folding fans, kimono, wooden toys, and traditional crafts. The atmosphere is lively and fun, with shop owners calling out to customers and the smell of street food filling the air.
Pro tip: Visit early in the morning before the crowds arrive, or in the evening when the shops are lit up, and the street has a magical glow.
While technically just outside Asakusa, the Tokyo Skytree is only a short walk or train ride away and offers incredible views of the city. At 634 meters tall, it's the tallest structure in Japan and the second-tallest structure in the world.
The observation decks on the 350th and 450th floors give you stunning 360-degree views of Tokyo. On clear days, you can even see Mount Fuji in the distance. The Skytree also has an aquarium, shops, restaurants, and a planetarium at its base.
Many visitors combine their Asakusa visit with a trip to the Skytree, and there are combination tours available that cover both areas in one convenient package.
4. Take a Sumida River Cruise
Sumida Park
The Sumida River runs right alongside Asakusa, and taking a river cruise is a wonderful way to see Tokyo from a different angle. The boats travel between Asakusa and places like Odaiba or Hama-rikyu Gardens, passing under many bridges and offering views of the city skyline.
Some boats have a futuristic design created by famous manga artists, making the experience even more fun. The cruise typically takes 40 minutes to an hour and gives your feet a rest while you enjoy the scenery. It's especially beautiful in the evening when the city lights reflect on the water.
This can be a great addition to any Tokyo sightseeing tour that covers multiple neighborhoods in one day.
5. Experience Traditional Street Food
Takoyaki
Asakusa is a food lover's paradise, especially if you enjoy trying traditional Japanese snacks and street food. Besides the treats on Nakamise Street, there are many small restaurants and food stalls throughout the neighborhood.
Try melon pan (sweet bread with a crispy cookie crust), taiyaki (fish-shaped cake filled with red bean paste), or fresh dango (sweet rice dumplings on a stick). For something more substantial, look for small restaurants serving tempura, soba noodles, or traditional Japanese curry.
The area around Hoppy Street is famous for its casual izakaya (Japanese pubs) where locals gather to drink and eat after work. It's a great place to experience authentic Tokyo nightlife in a more traditional setting.
6. Visit Asakusa Shrine
Asakusa Shrine
Right next to Sensoji Temple sits Asakusa Shrine, which is often overlooked by tourists but is definitely worth visiting. This beautiful Shinto shrine was built in 1649 and has a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere than the busy temple next door.
The shrine is dedicated to the three men who founded Sensoji Temple. Its architecture is stunning, and it's a great place to observe traditional Shinto practices. If you visit in May, you might catch the famous Sanja Matsuri festival, one of Tokyo's biggest and most exciting festivals with portable shrines, traditional music, and huge crowds.
One of the most fun and unique ways to explore Asakusa is by rickshaw. These traditional two-wheeled carts pulled by strong runners have been used in Japan for over a century. Today, they offer tourists a special way to see the neighborhood.
The rickshaw pullers are usually young, energetic, and knowledgeable about the area. They'll take you through narrow back streets you might miss on your own, point out interesting buildings, and share stories about Asakusa's history. They can also take your photos at the best spots. Rides range from short 15-minute tours to longer explorations lasting an hour or more.
This experience pairs well with cultural tours that focus on traditional Tokyo experiences.
8. Discover the Side Streets and Alleyways
Asakusa Night Walking Tour
While the main attractions are wonderful, some of Asakusa's best moments happen when you wander off the beaten path. The neighborhood is full of narrow alleyways, quiet side streets, and hidden corners that feel frozen in time.
You'll find small family-run shops that have been operating for generations, tiny temples tucked between buildings, and local restaurants where no English is spoken but the food is amazing. These back streets give you a glimpse of how Tokyo residents actually live, away from the tourist crowds.
Take your time, get a little lost, and don't be afraid to peek down interesting-looking lanes. Some of the most memorable travel experiences happen when you're willing to explore.
9. Visit Traditional Craft Shops
Kimono
Asakusa has maintained its connection to traditional Japanese crafts, and you'll find many shops selling handmade items. Look for stores specializing in Japanese knives, handmade paper, traditional toys, or beautiful textile products.
One particularly interesting shop type is the "kappabashi" style stores selling restaurant supplies—everything from plastic food samples to professional kitchen equipment. Even if you're not buying, these shops are fascinating to browse.
Many craft shops offer demonstrations or even short workshops where you can try making something yourself. This hands-on experience gives you deeper appreciation for Japanese craftsmanship.
10. Enjoy Views from the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
For one of the best free views in Tokyo, head to the 8th floor of the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, located right across from Kaminarimon Gate. This modern building, designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma offers a fantastic observation deck.
From here, you get a bird's-eye view of Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Street, and the surrounding neighborhood. You can see the Tokyo Skytree in the distance and watch the flow of tourists below. There's also a café where you can grab a coffee while enjoying the scenery.
The center itself provides helpful information for tourists, including maps, brochures in multiple languages, and staff who can answer questions about getting around Tokyo.
11. Experience a Traditional Tea Ceremony
Tea Ceremony Experience
Several places in Asakusa offer traditional tea ceremony experiences where you can learn about this important aspect of Japanese culture. These ceremonies involve the careful preparation and serving of matcha (powdered green tea) according to specific rituals that have been practiced for centuries.
A tea ceremony is a meditative experience that teaches you about mindfulness, respect, and appreciation for simple moments. You'll learn the proper way to receive the tea bowl, how to drink the tea, and the meaning behind each movement.
This cultural experience often pairs well with a kimono rental, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture. Some guided cultural tours include tea ceremonies as part of a broader introduction to Japanese traditions.
12. Visit at Night for a Different Atmosphere
Most tourists visit Asakusa during the day, but the neighborhood transforms beautifully after sunset. Sensoji Temple is illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere very different from the daytime bustle. The crowds thin out significantly, giving you a more peaceful experience.
The nearby streets come alive with izakayas and small bars where locals gather. The lanterns glow warmly, and the whole area feels more intimate and special. If you're interested in Tokyo's nightlife beyond the famous districts like Shibuya and Roppongi, Asakusa at night offers a more traditional and local experience.
Many evening tours of Tokyo include stops in Asakusa to show visitors this different side of the neighborhood.
Getting to Asakusa
Asakusa is very easy to reach by Tokyo's excellent public transportation system. The area is served by several train and subway lines including the Ginza Line, Asakusa Line, and Tobu Skytree Line. The neighborhood is well-connected to other major areas of Tokyo, making it simple to include in your itinerary.
For visitors who want a hassle-free experience, joining a full-day Tokyo tour that includes Asakusa along with other must-see neighborhoods is an efficient way to cover a lot of ground with expert guidance.
자주 묻는 질문
Tokyo Skytree is about 1.5 kilometers from Asakusa, which is roughly a 20-minute walk or one train stop. Many visitors combine both attractions in a single trip since they're so close together. You can see the Skytree from most places in Asakusa.
While some shops accept credit cards, many small stores and street vendors in Asakusa are cash-only. You'll find ATMs at convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson) throughout the area. Post office ATMs also accept international cards. It's wise to carry enough yen for shopping and food.
Absolutely! Asakusa is very family-friendly. Kids usually enjoy the colorful temple gates, trying different snacks on Nakamise Street, and the general festive atmosphere. The area is mostly flat and easy to navigate with strollers. Many restaurants welcome children.
Popular souvenirs include traditional Japanese snacks (senbei rice crackers, matcha sweets), folding fans, small good luck charms from the temple, traditional toys, chopsticks, and tenugui (traditional hand towels). Nakamise Street has the best variety. Look for items that say "Made in Japan" if you want authentic quality products.
