NIKUFES 2024: Taste Wagyu and International Dishes in Odaiba from 4/26 - 5/6!

20 Exciting Things to Do in Asakusa - 2024 Guide

This service includes sponsored advertisements.
article thumbnail image

Asakusa is the traditional downtown area of Tokyo and home to many internationally-known sightseeing places. From visiting ancient temples to river cruises or souvenir shopping to Michelin-starred eats, here's what you shouldn't miss out in Asakusa.

Latest update :

Asakusa: The Highlight of Tokyo Sightseeing

15 Exciting Things To Do In Asakusa

Asakusa is one of the most popular sightseeing areas in Tokyo. Despite suffering extensive damage during the Tokyo bombings that took place during World War II, the area was rebuilt and the preserved historical shitamachi (downtown area) of Asakusa is now one of the most visited tourist spots in the city.

Here you will find the famed Sensoji Temple and the great paper lantern of Kaminarimon, but there are dozens, if not hundreds, of incredible things to both see and do here, many of which you won't find in most guidebooks. Here are 20 classic things to do in Asakusa.

Top 20 Things to Do in Asakusa

1. Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Dori - Explore Tokyo's Oldest Temple
2. Asakusa Tourist Culture Information Center: Enjoy the View from Above
3. Asakusa Yokocho: Japanese Food and Izakaya Bar Culture
4. Take a Rickshaw Ride and Get to Know Asakusa More Deeply
5. Sumida River Cruise - Discover Asakusa from a Different Angle
6. Tokyo Skytree - Get the Perfect Photo of Japan's Tallest Tower
7. Hanayashiki - Enjoy Japan's Oldest Amusement Park
8. Nishi Sando Shopping Street - A Place Like an Ukiyo-e Painting
9. Asakusa Shrine: A Shrine Connected to Senseoji Temple
10. Asakusa's Underground Shopping Center - Check Out Retro Asakusa
11. Souvenir Hunting in Asakusa - So Many Options
12. Eat Healthy and Flavorful Vegan Food
13. Munch on Michelin-Starred Rice Balls
14. Explore Kappabashi, Japan's Kitchen Town
15. Shichifukujin Pilgrimage - Set Out to Improve Your Luck
16. Asahi Super Dry Hall - Figure Out What the Golden Flame Is!
17. Edo Taito Traditional Crafts Center: See Exhibits and Demonstrations of Artisan Crafts
18. Matsuchiyama Shoden - A Temple Decorated with Daikon Radishes?
19. Learn Japanese Cooking at Local Classes
20. Oku Asakusa - Explore a Less-Crowded, Quaint Neighborhood

Book the Tokyo Subway Ticket - Unlimited Rides 24/48/72 Hours

Discount coupon for a professional photo shoot in Japan

1. Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Dori: Explore Tokyo's Oldest Temple

15 Exciting Things To Do In Asakusa

Picture from Sensoji Temple in Asakusa- A Complete Guide

Sensoji Temple is one of the most famous temples in Japan. It looks back on a 1,300-year-long history and is also famous for its entrance gate called Kaminarimon which stands out through its large red lantern.

Sensoji itself is not the only reason why you should visit the area. The oldest shopping street in Japan, called Nakamise Dori is located beyond Kaminarimon and leads to the temple's main hall. On Nakamise Dori you can buy traditional Japanese craft items as well as delicious snacks such as fried mochi (glutinous rice cakes).

↑ Return to the top of article.

2. Asakusa Tourist Culture Information Center: Enjoy the View from Above

20 Exciting Things to Do in Asakusa - 2023 Guide

Photo by Pixta
While you might think that you have your route all sorted out when visiting Asakusa, you might want to reconsider your options and visit the Asakusa Tourist Culture Information Center first. This eight-story center stands right across from Kaminarimon, the entrance to Sensoji Temple, and is the place to go if you need Wi-Fi, want to see limited-time exhibits related to the area, grab a bite to eat, or get guidance and support while sightseeing in Asakusa.

The center also has an observatory on the eighth floor that is available to access for free. Although the eighth floor might not sound like much when compared to other observation decks in the city, this is the only place you can take in a clear and sweeping view of Sensoji Temple, Kaminarimon, and Tokyo Skytree all at once. Be sure to make the visit here and experience this view for yourself.

↑ Return to the top of article.

3. Asakusa Yokocho: Japanese Food and Izakaya Bar Culture

20 Exciting Things to Do in Asakusa - 2023 Guide

Asakusa Yokocho opened in July 2022 as a new food court in Asakusa. The facility comprises seven izakaya bars that offer Japanese dishes and various types of beverages. Customers can choose from yakitori, sushi, pork dishes, Korean cuisine, and even Japanese eel dishes.

What makes this place special is its surreal ambiance inspired by Japan's vibrant festival culture. The items on display will make you feel you've gone down the rabbit hole into the world of Japanese folklore. A kimono rental shop offering chic, casual kimono styling is also located within Asakusa Yokocho.

4. Take a Rickshaw Ride and Get to Know Asakusa More Deeply

20 Exciting Things to Do in Asakusa - 2023 Guide

Photo by Pixta
Booking a Rickshaw Tour makes it simple to explore the streets of Asakusa while experiencing traditional Japanese culture. You can choose from 30-minute, 1-hour, and two-hour tours to fit your schedule and budget. Guides can speak English.

Jidaiya is one of the rickshaw tour companies in Asakusa. They offer a variety of plans for one to three people, all of which last for different lengths of time and are available in Japanese, English, and Chinese. Although it can get pricey, this is the ideal option for those who want to see it all, but don't have enough time to wander about the city.

Jidaiya
Address: Tokyo, Taito, Sumida 2-3-5
Google Map

Book an Asakusa Rickshaw Tour

↑ Return to the top of article.

5. Sumida River Cruise - Discover Asakusa from a Different Angle

20 Exciting Things to Do in Asakusa - 2023 Guide

Photo by Pixta
Sumida River flows through Asakusa, so why not take the opportunity to explore Asakusa by ship? It's a great occasion to see this historical part of Tokyo from a different angle.

Water cruises on the popular Suijo Bus between Asakusa and other areas of Tokyo such as Odaiba are very enjoyable. You can get off the ship in Hamarikyu and enjoy its beautiful gardens or at Hinode Pier, which is a popular boat trip location in Japan. Or how about going all the way to Odaiba Seaside Park?

Book the Sumida River Cruise from Asakusa to Odaiba

↑ Return to the top of article.

6. Tokyo Skytree: Get the Perfect Photo of Japan's Tallest Tower

20 Exciting Things to Do in Asakusa - 2023 Guide

Photo by Pixta
While it goes without saying that you should definitely check out Tokyo Skytree and all its related attractions in nearby Oshiage, there is one thing that you can do to enjoy Japan's tallest tower while in Asakusa: photograph it!

There are plenty of places to take pictures of Skytree in Asakusa, and depending on what sort of shot you'd like, there are even different poses you can take on to get a selfie with the tower too. Why not get creative and see what sort of photos you can get of Skytree?

Book your ticket to Tokyo Skytree's Observation Deck

↑ Return to the top of article.

7. Hanayashiki - Enjoy Japan's Oldest Amusement Park

20 Exciting Things to Do in Asakusa - 2023 Guide

Photo by Pixta
Hanayashiki was founded in 1853 and is one of Japan's oldest amusement parks. It is located near Sensoji Temple and hosts about twenty-five attractions suitable for visitors of all ages.

Here, you can enjoy all the beloved amusement park attractions such as roller coasters, a merry-go-round, and a haunted house. This park surely has some old school flair and can be enjoyed by the whole family.

↑ Return to the top of article.

8. Nishi Sando Shopping Street - Stroll Through an Ukiyo-e Painting

20 Exciting Things to Do in Asakusa - 2023 Guide

Photo by Pixta
Take a left and a short walk from Sensoji Temple to find the picturesque Nishi Sando Shopping Street. This covered shopping street looks like something you would find in an Edo period ukiyo-e painting and is the ideal place for relaxed exploration and photos.

The floor of this market is covered in natural Japanese cypress flooring and is filled with tiny shops! Browse through everything, from souvenirs, regional ramen, to samurai swords and pick up a souvenir or treat for yourself. This is the perfect place to go if you want to do a little shopping and get a sense of Japanese history.

Nishi Sando
Address: Tokyo, Taito, Asakusa 2-7-13
Google Map

↑ Return to the top of article.

9. Asakusa Shrine - A Shrine Connected to Sensoji Temple

20 Exciting Things to Do in Asakusa - 2023 Guide

Photo by Pixta
Off to the right of Sensoji Temple, you will notice a tall torii shrine gate and long pathway - this is the entranceway to Sensoji's neighbor, Asakusa Shrine. While it might seem hard to fathom at first, the relationship between Japan's native religion, Shinto, and the imported Buddhism, is very syncretic, so having these two structures side by side just seems to make sense.

Asakusa Shrine is where the two men who founded Sensoji Temple are enshrined and is yet another peaceful spot in the complex that is said to offer blessings regarding safe travels, familial happiness, and in whatever your heart desires. Plus, here you can find an unusual, all-black omamori charm, meant to remind you that everything will be alright.

Asakusa Shrine
Address: Tokyo, Taito, Asakusa 2-3-1
Google Map

↑ Return to the top of article.

10. Asakusa's Underground Shopping Center - Check Out Retro Asakusa

20 Exciting Things to Do in Asakusa - 2023 Guide

Photo by Pixta
Have you ever wondered what life was like in Japan during the postwar period? If you have, then you might want to head to Asakusa's Underground Shopping Center, easily reached from EKIMISE, a shopping center and the Tobu Asakusa Line's Asakusa Station.

This shopping center is not very well known even to the Japanese, despite having been open since 1955, but there are many great and cheap Japanese restaurants, bars, and shops catering to the busy working person here. Not only that, but the majority of them have been in business since the shopping center first opened. If you want to see a retro slice of life in Tokyo, then this is the place to go.

Underground Shopping Center
Address: Tokyo, Taito, Asakusa 1-1-12
Google Map

↑ Return to the top of article.

11. Souvenir Hunting in Asakusa - So Many Options

15 Exciting Things To Do In Asakusa

Picture from Your Go-To Asakusa Souvenir Shopping Guide!

One thing that everyone does in Asakusa is shop for souvenirs. Here, there are literally hundreds of stores selling thousands of items; everything from simple postcards to green tea snacks all the way to antique kimono and authentic samurai swords or original Japanese handicrafts can be easily found at this very station.

That being said, knowing just where to find what you are looking for can be quite the challenge. Nakamise Dori - the street in front of Sensoji Temple, EKIMISE, Rox, and of course Asakusa's Don Quijote are great places to start the search for the perfect souvenir and are sightseeing spots in their own right as well.

Up to 15% OFF! Discount coupon for shopping at Don Quijote

↑ Return to the top of article.

12. Eat Healthy and Flavorful Vegan Food by the Sumida

vegan the farm cafe

Picture from THE FARM CAFE, Asakusa - Delicious And Healthy Vegan Dishes For All
THE FARM CAFE is a picturesque cafe close to Sensoji Temple, serving an entirely plant-based menu of dishes like tempura, fried soy meat, and colorful plates with lots of vegetables and whole grains. Since the cafe is small, it is best suited for small parties; if you have a larger group, try to come early or past the lunch rush.

Everything served here is handmade and filled with flavor, making it a great spot for lunch or teatime for anyone craving something nutritious and delicious. We especially recommend the soy meat rice bowl (pictured above), topped with fresh salad and drizzled in a savory sauce.


↑ Return to the top of article.

13. Munch on Michelin-Starred Rice Balls

15 Exciting Things To Do In Asakusa

Picture from Featured In The MICHELIN Guide Tokyo 2019! Onigiri Asakusa Yadoroku
Located north of Sensoji is Onigiri Asakusa Yadoroku, a restaurant specializing in onigiri, or rice balls. Onigiri is one of the oldest foods in Japan and is a quintessential lunchtime food for many. Appearing in the Michelin Guide for Tokyo in 2019 and 2020, it is a highly recommended place that anyone wanting to try simple, delicious Japanese cuisine shouldn't pass up.

Please be aware that the restaurant is small and very popular. Once ingredients run out, the restaurant closes. Try arriving as early as possible; you won't regret it!


↑ Return to the top of article.

14. Explore Kappabashi, Japan's Kitchen Town

kappabashi

Photo by Pixta
Kappabashi, a neighborhood in the greater Asakusa area, is known for its many vendors selling high-quality, fair-priced kitchen supplies of all types. From Japanese knives to chopsticks and dishes, there is much to see and shop for. Those looking for something practical to bring home, try the cooking and baking supplies at Mamijiya. They even have Mt. Fuji-shaped cake molds!

Another highlight of the neighborhood is the fake food replicas created in great detail. When in the area, be sure to head to Ganso Sample, a shop with hundreds of detailed dishes, ranging from ramen to sushi, to elaborate ice cream parfaits. The to-scale size of the replicas are used in restaurants in Japan--it may be more convenient for travelers to take home a smaller version of Japan's famous dishes, however.

↑ Return to the top of article.

15. Shichifukujin Pilgrimage - Set Out to Improve Your Luck

15 Classic Things To Do In Asakusa

Picture from Get Your Wish Ready When Visiting Asakusa's Seven Lucky Gods!

The term Shichifukujin, or Seven Lucky Gods, refers to seven deities named Daikokuten, Ebisu, Bishamonten, Fukurokuju, Hotei, Jurojin, and Benzaiten that grant good fortune in different fields such as business, health, creativity, etc. Unfortunately, there aren’t many shrines where they are all enshrined together, so in many cases, if you want to pray for luck in several different areas, you will need to visit many different temples or shrines.

Still, it is believed that he or she who visits all seven shrines and temples where these gods dwell in the right order, will be bestowed with great fortune! This trip is often called the Shichifukujin Pilgrimage. In this photo you can see Yoshiwara Shrine, where the goddess of the arts and intelligence, Benzaiten, is enshrined. She is the only goddess among the Shichifukujin, and as a result, is also said to grant blessings regarding love and fertility.

↑ Return to the top of article.

16. Asahi Super Dry Hall - Figure Out What the Golden Flame Is!

20 Exciting Things to Do in Asakusa - 2023 Guide

Photo by Pixta
When you come out of Asakusa Station and look towards the Sumida River and Tokyo Skytree, you may notice this strange, gold figure on top of a glittering black building.

This is the Asahi Super Dry Hall, one of the offices of the Asahi Beer Company, and a landmark in the Asakusa area. You'll likely see scores of people taking photos of this strange gold object, wondering what it actually is.

This is the Flame d'Or ("Golden Flame") monument, which represents the passion and dedication of the Asahi Beer Company.

Asahi Super Dry Hall
Address: Tokyo, Taito, Azumabashi 1-23-1
Google Map

↑ Return to the top of article.

17. Edo Taito Traditional Crafts Center: See Exhibits and Demonstrations of Artisan Crafts

20 Exciting Things To Do In Asakusa

The Edo Taito Traditional Crafts Center is a facility dedicated to the artisanal crafts that flourished in Japan since the Edo period (1603-1868). The entrance is free.

Various types of crafts are displayed on two floors: from traditional kitchenware and handmade furniture to decorative objects, accessories, and daily use objects. Traditional craft items made by artisans who are currently active all around Japan are available for sale at the reception.

On weekends, local craftsmen hold demonstrations and workshops. It's a great chance to learn more about Japan's traditional crafts, including how to appreciate authentic items.

Edo Taito Traditional Crafts Center
Address: Tokyo, Taito, Asakusa 2-22-13
Google Map

↑ Return to the top of article.

18. Matsuchiyama Shoden - A Temple Decorated with Daikon Radishes?

20 Exciting Things to Do in Asakusa - 2023 Guide

Photo by Pixta
Matsuchiyama Shoden is a less well known and slightly hidden Buddhist temple in Asakusa, which is said to be a temple of thanksgiving, and one that grants blessings on fulfillment in love, family harmony, business prosperity and others to its worshipers.

And, with the daikon radish as its distinctive but unusual symbol, you will be able to find daikon radish designs throughout the grounds too. Although this temple is a little bit harder to find than others in the Asakusa area, the charming pond with carp fish swimming in it and Edo period clay wall, as well as the neighborhood itself more than make it up for the hunt.

Matsuchiyama Shoden
Address: Tokyo, Taito, Asakusa 7-4-1
Google Map

↑ Return to the top of article.

19. Learn Japanese Cooking at Local Classes

airkitchen asakusa

Another way to heighten your Asakusa experience is through a workshop––what better of an activity to try than cooking? airKitchen offers classes in Asakusa where you can learn how to make classic Japanese from residents, from onigiri (rice balls) to sushi, ramen, and traditional sweets. Many classes support vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and Halal dietary needs, and all instructors can offer support in English.

Browse these fun and easy cooking classes to add an in-depth and delicious activity to your itinerary in Asakusa. Click below for details and make your reservation online:
airKitchen Cooking Classes in Tokyo

Other Japanese Cooking Classes in Asakusa:
Sushi Cooking in Aakusa
Instagrammable Cooking Class in Asakusa

↑ Return to the top of article.

20. Oku Asakusa - Explore a Less-Crowded, Quaint Neighborhood

oku asakusa

Picture from Deep Asakusa - Exploring Behind Sensoji Temple
Located just north of Sensoji Temple, Oku Asakusa, or deep Asakusa, is known for its charming traditional townscape, shopping streets, and laidback atmosphere. It is lesser-known and therefore less crowded than other places nearby. It is the ideal place for photography, finding homestyle meals, and taking a peaceful walk.

As you stroll down the streets here, look for the machiya-style shops, with long, narrow rooms that go into the back of the store, allowing owners to see when customers enter through the front door. There are also seasonal events and festivals held, like the Oiran Dochu Procession where in-period costumes are worn by parade participants. Tori no Ichi is another exciting event. Tori-no-Ichi, where local businesses gather at Otori Shrine in hopes of more

↑ Return to the top of article.

FAQ

Why is Asakusa so famous?

Asakusa is famous for its historic Sensoji Temple. Founded in 628, Sensoji is considered the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo, and the entire district around it has developed due to the great number of pilgrims that have been visiting this temple since ancient times. The Sensoji Temple area is known for its bustling streets filled with traditional shops and restaurants, and for the iconic Kaminarimon Gate leading to the temple grounds. Asakusa is considered a must-visit destination for both domestic and international tourists seeking a taste of traditional Tokyo and Japanese culture.

Is it worth going to Asakusa?

Yes, Asakusa is definitely worth visiting. It offers a glimpse into Tokyo's rich history and traditional culture, providing an opportunity to explore the historic Sensoji Temple, stroll through the Nakamise shopping street, and enjoy traditional Japanese performances and events. Additionally, the area has a lively atmosphere, with an array of shops, restaurants, and street food vendors. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or shopping, Asakusa has something to offer for everyone.

How much time should I save for exploring Asakusa?

We suggest saving at least one day for exploring Asakusa. Visiting Sensoji Temple and strolling along the Nakamise shopping street will take two to three hours. Exploring the area, trying different foods, and buying souvenirs can take up an entire afternoon. Taking a river cruise on the nearby Sumida River or renting a kimono will also add to the experience. After sunset, we suggest visiting the Tokyo Skytree nearby, which is illuminated at night and offers splendid views of the city lights.

Can Sensoji be visited at night?

Yes, Sensoji Temple is open to visitors at night, and it offers a different and beautiful experience compared to visiting during the day. The temple grounds are generally open 24 hours a day, allowing visitors to explore the serene atmosphere and appreciate the temple's architecture and tranquil ambiance at night. The temple's buildings and structures are usually illuminated at night, creating a peaceful and enchanting atmosphere. However, it's important to note that access to the main halls and certain areas within the temple complex may be limited or closed during nighttime hours. Also, most of the souvenir shops around the temple are closed after 20:00.

Is Asakusa safe at night?

Asakusa is generally considered a safe area to visit at night. The area around Sensoji Temple and Nakamise shopping street is popular with tourists and locals alike, and it tends to have a lively atmosphere even after dark. However, as with any travel destination, it's wise to remain aware of your surroundings and take usual precautions to ensure personal safety. Additionally, it's always a good idea to be mindful of local customs and respectful of the temple and its surroundings when visiting at night.

Get the Most Out of Asakusa!

There are so many things to see, do, eat, and buy in Asakusa that it might make your head spin, but if you want to get the absolute most out of a trip to this historic downtown hot spot, then consider this article to be your guide to the best that Tokyo's old shitamachi has to offer!

Book the Tokyo Subway Pass on KLOOK to Explore Tokyo Conveniently!

Find accommodation in Asakusa on Booking.com

Main image by Pixta

 

Written by

This is the official account of MATCHA's English editorial team. We are bringing you the latest travel information on Japan.

Our beautiful cover photo features the fall foliage at Lake Kinrin in Yufuin (photo by Pixta). We hope you'll have a wonderful time exploring Japan.

The information presented in this article is based on the time it was written. Note that there may be changes in the merchandise, services, and prices that have occurred after this article was published. Please contact the facility or facilities in this article directly before visiting. Some of our articles contain affiliate links. We kindly ask our readers to exercise careful judgement when making a purchase or booking a service online.