Neighbourhood Guide: Asakusa
Tease your senses with the abundance of sights, smells and sounds at the lively neighbourhood of Asakusa.
Known as one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Tokyo, Asakusa was originally a small fishing village in the 7th century. It then transformed into a bustling town during the Edo period (1603-1868) and became a centre for trade and entertainment.
Today, it holds much of Tokyo’s rich cultural heritage. From temples to dressing up in traditional Japanese costumes and even the iconic Asahi beer hall, Asakusa is definitely one of the must visit spots in Tokyo.
Top 5 things to do at Asakusa
- Take a stroll down at Sumida Park
- Try on traditional Japanese costumes, kimonos
- Ride a rickshaw and tour around Asakusa
- Snap a picture of the iconic Asahi Beer Hall
- Try a taiyaki (Japanese pancakes)
Must see
Sensoji Temple
2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
Known as one of Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temples, this is perfect for those who are intrigued in learning about the history of a place through architecture. Time your trip and visit during May to experience cherry blossoms surrounding the temple and catch a glimpse of the temple's annual Sanja Matsuri festival, which features colourful parades, traditional music and dancing.
Nakamise-dori
1 Chome-36-3 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
After passing through the gates of Sensoji Temple, you’ll be greeted by lines of traditional stores and food stands that sell traditional snacks, local crafts and souvenirs. Other than the main street, take a stroll around the surrounding alleys to find more hidden gems.
Hanayashiki
2 Chome-28-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
What started out as a flower garden in 1853 soon transformed into an amusement park, housing roller coasters, a haunted house and a Ferris wheel that offers stunning views of the Tokyo skyline. If the rides at Fuji-Q intimidate you, you could consider exploring this amusement park instead.
Asakusa Shrine
2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
Located near the Sensoji Temple, the shrine dates back to the 7th century and was rebuilt in 1649 after being destroyed by fire. When you’re there, engage in various traditional Shinto practices, such as purifying yourselves with water at the temizuya (water basin) and offering prayers at the main shrine building.
Tokyo Skytree Tower
2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo
This may not be for the faint-hearted ones, but if you’re up for a sky-high adventure, do add this to your itinerary. At 634 metres tall, the Tokyo Skytree Tower is the tallest building in Tokyo, providing you a vantage point to view the entire city. With a variety of food options and shops available below, it is a great place to spend the day. We highly recommend visiting at 6:30pm to catch the sunset and staying a little longer to experience the cityscape at night.
Must eat and drink
Misojyu
1 Chome-7-5 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo
Who knew there were so many types of miso? At Misojyu, this quaint and modern restaurant serves up a mean and warm bowl of miso soup with onigiri on the side. Just 4 minutes walk away from Nakamise-dori, this is a nice brunch spot to visit before exploring the temple and shops nearby.
Tendon Tenya
1 Chome-9-2 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo
For a quick and fuss-free meal (that will definitely please everyone in the family), head down to this popular chain restaurant that offers affordable tempura rice bowls, known as tendon. Heralded by locals and tourists alike, this spot hits all the spots from the convenient location, to affordable prices and yummy food.
Kamiya Bar
1 Chome-1-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo
Go back in time to the 1800s as you step foot into this charming bar that features vintage decor and their iconic wooden tables. Try their signature, Denki Bran — a blend of gin, brandy, and a secret blend of spices — and pair it with a few cheeky croquettes on the side!
Asakusa Micro
3 Chome−31−9, Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo
A hidden gem tucked in-between traditional shops along Asakusa is a craft beer bar. With a wide selection of local and international craft beers, pick a drink or two and shop for antique goods at this intimate 15-seater bar.
Naruto Taiyaki
1 Chome−28−1, Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo
Before we end this list, here’s something for those with a sweet tooth. Taiyaki is a traditional Japanese sweet treat, which features a fish-shaped pancake and is usually filled with sweet red bean paste. At Naruto Taiyaki, this cosy store specialises in taiyaki filled with red bean, sweet potato, custard and apple.
Does Asakusa fit your bill when it comes to your housing search? If it does, why not consider Moto-Asakusa, which is located in a quieter neighbourhood while still providing you with a variety of entertainment options. If not, then how about the charming Asakusa Tawaramachi that was just recently launched?
