Asakusa and Asakusabashi: Two Different Tokyo Districts

There are plenty of places with similar names around the world. When I was in New York, I once found myself in a village called Lynbrook when trying to get to Brooklyn.

Similarly, this article will explain the differences between the easily mistakable Asakusa and Asakusabashi.

Asakusa: Tokyo's Famous Tourist Destination

Photo by Pixta
We’ll start by explaining the famous tourist attraction Asakusa.

Almost every Japanese person has heard of Sensoji Temple or Kaminarimon Gate (Thunder Gate). In fact, these iconic spots in Tokyo are likely known throughout the world. These locations immediately come to mind when people mention Asakusa. Not only is it close to Ueno, but you can easily get there from Narita Airport without transferring trains.

Asakusa

Asakusabashi: A Historic Wholesale District

Asakusabashi Station is two stations away from Asakusa Station along the Toei Asakusa Line. It takes about 25 minutes on foot from Asakusa but only three minutes by train.

The Toei Asakusa Line and JR Sobu Line also stop at this station. There are train platforms located in the underground and outdoor portion of the station.

Asakusabashi Station has an east and west exit, although most people use the east exit. For this reason, the eastern side has plenty of stores and lots of foot traffic.

Asakusabashi has long been known as a wholesale district of dolls, mock models, and clothes.

While the area around Asakusabashi doesn't have tourist spots, it is not unusual to be greeted by extreme congestion when heading out the east exit. These are actually people lining up for lottery tickets. The store in front of the station is known for having a high rate of winning tickets. It's not uncommon to see people waiting in line.

Asakusabashi

Will You Find a Bridge in Asakusabashi?

Not surprisingly, there is a bridge called Asakusabashi located near Asakusabashi Station.

Why would there be a bridge called Asakusabashi far from the center of Asakusa and Kaminarimon Gate? The history of the surrounding area is related to the answer to this question.

Flowing under the Asakusabashi is the Kanda River. Back in the olden days, the area north of the Kanda River was called Asakusa. If you head towards the center of Tokyo from the Asakusa side, this place would be one of the toll points. It is also where a facility called Asakusa Mitsuke (*1) was built.

Since this bridge was located in Asakusa Mitsuke, it was shortly named Asakusabashi.

*1 Mitsuke: the outermost area of a castle where soldiers would stand guard.

Double Check the Distance on the Map!

We've already mentioned the distance between Asakusa and Asakusabashi. But looking at the map, you can tell that they are about two kilometers apart.

Although it is within walking distance, there are not many sightseeing spots between Asakusa and Asakusabashi. It's recommended to take the Toei Subway Asakusa Line, especially for those looking to save time and energy.

Main image by Pixta