Asakusa is one of Tokyo’s most popular tourist destinations, offering a unique and vibrant mix of culture, history, and entertainment. From ancient temples to modern shopping malls, Asakusa has something for everyone.
With its traditional streets lined with restaurants and shops, there is always something new to explore. In this article, we will provide an overview of the best things to do in Asakusa – from exploring the iconic Senso-ji Temple complex to enjoying the bright lights of Nakamise Shopping Street.
Whether you are looking for a place to relax or activities that will make your time in Asakusa unforgettable, this guide will help you find out what makes this park of Tokyo so unforgettable.
The Kaminarimon
Asakusa is one of the most iconic places to visit in Tokyo. The entrance of Asakusa is marked by the Kaminarimon, a large red lantern gate. It’s a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, who come here to take pictures and admire the beauty of this centuries-old architecture.
Nakamise Shopping Street
From the Kaminarimon, you can explore Nakamise Shopping Street, which has been around since the 17th century. Here you’ll find an array of traditional Japanese souvenirs such as kimonos, fans and trinkets, as well as snacks like mochi and teriyaki. There’s also a range of small restaurants serving up local dishes such as tempura and soba noodles.
Senso-ji Temple
At the end of Nakamise Shopping Street lies Senso-ji Temple – one of Tokyo’s oldest temples that date back to 645 AD.
The temple itself is quite impressive with its giant red paper lanterns hanging from its entrance gates, while inside there are shrines dedicated to various Buddhist gods and goddesses.
You can also purchase charms or amulets from nearby stalls which are said to bring luck or protection against bad luck.
The Asakusa Street Food
No visit to Asakusa is complete without sampling some delicious street food! You can find all sorts of snacks on offer including grilled chicken skewers, takoyaki (octopus balls) and yakitori (grilled chicken). There are also plenty of sweets such as mochi ice cream and waffle cones filled with custard cream or ice cream.
Asakusa Shrine
As well as being home to Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa is also home to another shrine – Asakusa Shrine – which sits atop a hill overlooking Sumida River. Here you’ll find lush green gardens filled with cherry blossoms in springtime, making it perfect for taking photos or just enjoying nature away from city life!
Asakusa Cultural & Street Food Walking Tour
For those looking for an insight into Asakusa’s culture and cuisine then a walking tour is definitely worth considering. These tours will take visitors through the backstreets where they can learn about traditional Japanese crafts such as wood carving or dyeing fabrics before stopping off at various eateries along the way for some delicious samples!
Sumida Park
After visiting both shrines in Asakusa why not take a stroll through Sumida Park? This park offers stunning views across the Tokyo skyline while also providing plenty of space for leisurely walks or even picnics if you fancy it!
There are also lots of attractions within the park such as boat rides on the Sumida River or festivals during certain months throughout the year too!
Asakusa Night Foodie Tour
If you’re looking for something different then why not try out an evening foodie tour? This tour will take visitors around some hidden gems tucked away in back streets where they can sample everything from fresh sushi rolls to crispy takoyaki balls! For something truly unique there’s even an option to explore local sake breweries too!
Tokyo Skytree
Another must-see attraction in Asakusa is Tokyo Skytree – Japan’s tallest structure at over 2000ft tall! Here visitors have amazing panoramic views stretching out over Tokyo cityscape while they dine at one of many restaurants located in its base station area below it!
Solamachi Shopping Centre
Those looking for shopping opportunities should definitely check out Solamachi Shopping Centre located just next door to Senso-ji Temple; this mall houses over 300 shops selling everything from clothing brands like Uniqlo to electronics stores like Yodobashi Camera! Plus there are plenty more stores selling souvenirs too so make sure you don’t miss out !
River Cruise
If sightseeing isn’t your thing but you still want to enjoy breathtaking views then how about taking a river cruise down the Sumida River? There are various cruises available ranging from short day trips lasting around 1 hour all the way up to longer night cruises lasting around 2 hours – both offering fantastic views along the way!
Asahi Beer Tower
Another place worth checking out if time allows is none other than the famous ‘Asahi Beer Tower’. Standing tall at nearly 30 meters high this tower houses both a beer museum where visitors can learn more about Japanese beer brewing culture plus an observation deck offering 360-degree views over central Tokyo – the perfect spot for those wanting to get their fill photography opportunities!
Kappabashi Shopping Street
Last but not least we have Kappabashi Shopping Street located near Ueno Station; this street has long been known amongst chefs traders who flock here search for kitchen equipment anything from plastic replicas to food used display window shop fronts all way knives and pans…it basically heaven for anyone interested culinary world!