Asakusa

The area with traditional buildings and Buddhist temples

Asakusa still preserves the atmosphere of the old Japan.

Sensoji Temple is the oldest temple in Tokyo, said to be established in the seventh century, and sits at the heart of Asakusa. The temple as well as Asakusa suffered nearly a dozen fires during its long history, but every time people have restored them. The present gate of Sensoji Temple was restored in 1960 through funding by Konosuke Matsushita, the founder of Panasonic.

Asakusa is also a good place for some souvenir shopping. Nakamise, the shopping street leading to the Temple from the gate sells many touristic items and snacks. Recently Kappabashi wholesalers’ street for restaurant business is growingly popular among international visitors.

For a long time, Asakusa was the largest pleasure town in Tokyo. Today, that title was given up to other districts like Shinjuku, but Asakusa keeps the atmosphere of the old Tokyo.

After Asakusa, you could take a boat tour leading to Odaiba on Sumidagawa River.

Handpicked links

Sumida River Cruise to Asakusa

Reserve Tokyo Half Day Afternoon City Tour: Sumida River Cruise to Asakusa.

Asakusa by Rough Guide

Asakusa is best known as the site of Tokyo's most venerable Buddhist temple, Sensō-ji.

Sumida River Cruise

A cool 40-minute trip on a boat along the Sumida River with guides (in Japanese).