Tokyo Day Guides
by Trip To Japan
How to Spend a Day in Asakusa
Asakusa is one of Tokyo’s most famous historical districts, home to the iconic Sensoji Temple, lively shopping streets, and traditional Japanese culture. In this guide, you’ll explore Asakusa’s rich history, visit a ninja museum, and enjoy a breathtaking view from Tokyo Skytree. You won't want to forget your camera!
Let’s dive into the perfect itinerary for your day!
Take a Train to Asakusa Station
Tokyo Metro Ginza Line (direct to Asakusa Station)
Toei Asakusa Line (connects from various points in Tokyo)
Tobu Skytree Line (for travelers coming from northern Tokyo)
After breakfast, take the most convenient train from your nearest station to Asakusa Station.
Visit Sensoji Temple
Walking Distance: 5 minutes from Asakusa Station
Entrance Fee: Free
What to Do at Sensoji Temple:
✔Enter through Kaminarimon Gate, with its giant red lantern whose kanji reads "thunder gate."
✔Visit the Main Hall and experience traditional customs.
✔Don't forget to purify your hands and mouth at the designated water basins before parying.
✔Try omikuji (fortune slips) to see your fortune.
✔See the Five-Story Pagoda and enjoy the peaceful gardens.
Traveler’s Tip: Arrive early (before 9 AM) to avoid large crowds and enjoy a quieter temple visit.
Walk Through Nakamise Street
Leading right up to the temple is Nakamise Street, a lively shopping street with food, souvenirs, and traditional crafts.
What to Do at Nakamise Street:
✔ Try local snacks like rice crackers, sweet cakes, and melon bread.
✔ Shop for handmade crafts, kimonos, and fans.
✔ Visit stores selling matcha treats and Japanese sweets.
✔ Enjoy the lively atmosphere as you walk through this historic street.
Traveler’s Tip: If the main street is too crowded for you, walk parallel to it on either side. There are plenty of business there that would love to see you.
Mid-Morning Coffee Break in Asakusa
Take a short break and rest your feet before your next adventure at one of these cozy cafés.
Recommended Cafés:
Suzukien Asakusa – Famous for its matcha ice cream with varying intensity levels.
Dial Cafe (Vegan-Friendly) – This colorful cafe by the river serves a variety of vegan and gluten free snacks and meals.
Kissa Hangetsu – A fusion of Japanese kissaten and western influence, its desserts are to die for (and sell out quick!).
Explore Samurai Ninja Museum
A short walk from Sensoji Temple, the Ninja Museum of Tokyo offers exciting experiences for history lovers and adventure seekers alike.
What to Do at the Ninja Museum:
✔ Discover the history of ninjas and their secret techniques.
✔ See authentic ninja weapons and tools used in the past.
✔Discover samurai armor, some of which is over 300 years old
✔ Try interactive ninja training experiences, including throwing shuriken (ninja stars).
✔ Watch a ninja performance (available on select days).
Lunch in Asakusa
After the museum, enjoy lunch at one of Asakusa’s famous restaurants.
Restaurant Options:
Tonkatsu Yutaka – Long standing family run tonkatsu restaurant
Saryō Ichimatsu – Refined set lunches & multi-dish kaiseki meals in a chic space with bamboo screens & classic motifs.
Noriaki Bibi – An award winning ramen shop that boasts rich miso ramen that's simply mouthwatering.
Marugoto Vegan Dining (Vegan-Friendly) – Comfy riverside eatery offering vegan curries, burgers & rice bowls, plus coffee, tea & beer.
Walking Distance: 5 minutes from Asakusa
After lunch, why not enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Sumida River, enjoying scenic views and local shops. You can also take a Sumida River Cruise, which offers beautiful views of the city skyline.
What to Do Along the Sumida River:
✔ Walk through Sumida Park, which is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.
✔ Take an optional river cruise for a unique view of Tokyo.
✔ Visit the Asahi Beer Hall, famous for its golden flame-shaped roof.
✔ Explore Ekimise Shopping Mall, a mix of modern and traditional stores. Head to the rooftop for a great view of the surrounding area.
Traveler’s Tip: For a short cruise, why not hop on the Sumidagawa River Line that leaves Asakusa every 30 minutes heading to Hamarikyu Park. A return trip takes roughly 1 hour 20 minutes.
Visit Tokyo Skytree and Sumida Aquarium
End the afternoon at Tokyo Skytree, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks.
What to Do at Tokyo Skytree:
✔ Go up to the Tembo Deck (350m) for breathtaking city views.
✔ For an even higher view, visit the Tembo Galleria (450m).
✔ Explore Tokyo Solamachi, a shopping complex at the base of the tower.
✔ Visit Sumida Aquarium, home to jellyfish, penguins, and interactive exhibits.
Traveler’s Tip: Buy tickets online in advance to avoid long lines.
Dinner in Asakusa or Tokyo Skytree Area
As your day draws to a close you can enjoy dinner in Tokyo Skytree Town or return to Asakusa for a more traditional atmosphere.
Dinner Options:
Asakusa Gyukatsu – A well known chain restaurant specializing in deep-fried beef cutlets (be aware, due to its popularity, there may be queues).
Maguro-to-Shari – A restaurant specializing in maguro-don (raw tuna bowls) led by Michelin-starred chef Hiroyuki Sato.
Sometarō – A historical and unique okonomiyaki (savory pancake) restaurant with friendly staff and an easy to understand English menu.
ReserveOnly Veganic Monkey Magic (Vegan Friendly) – An unforgettable dining experience. Enjoy Japanese vegan dishes whilst being served by a man dressed as a monkey!
Return to Your Hotel
Take the train back from Asakusa Station or Tokyo Skytree Station, depending on your location:
From Asakusa Station: Take the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line or Toei Asakusa Line to your destination.
From Tokyo Skytree Station: Take the Tobu Skytree Line or transfer to a major line at Oshiage Station.
