Asakusa Area

The Asakusa area is a downtown district centered around Asakusa Station in Taito City, Tokyo, and is one of Japan’s most representative tourist destinations, attracting over 50 million visitors a year. When visiting Asakusa, be sure to stop by Senso-ji Temple, famous for Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate). Connecting Kaminarimon and Senso-ji’s Main Hall is Nakamise-dori, one of Japan’s oldest shopping streets. It’s fun just to browse the bustling storefronts selling traditional crafts, and there are also plenty of shops for casual street food. Nearby you’ll find many other spots that capture old-town charm, such as Asakusa Engei Hall (still entertaining people today with rakugo and manzai) and the classic amusement park Asakusa Hanayashiki (known for its panda car). It’s also a great viewpoint for Tokyo Skytree across the Sumida River. For an extra-special way to explore, try renting a kimono or taking a rickshaw ride. Access: Asakusa Station on the Tsukuba Express, Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, or Toei Asakusa Line is convenient.