Asakusa Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and more in Asakusa, Tokyo with this comprehensive guide.


Introduction to Asakusa

Asakusa is a vibrant and historic district located in the heart of Tokyo, Japan. Known for its rich culture, traditional architecture, and lively atmosphere, Asakusa attracts visitors from all over the world. The district is home to several famous landmarks, such as the Senso-ji Temple, which is the oldest and one of the most significant Buddhist temples in Tokyo.

List of Places to Visit in Asakusa

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Senso-ji Temple: A Buddhist temple and Tokyo’s oldest temple.
  • Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center: A modern building with a stunning view of the Senso-ji Temple.
  • Edo-Tokyo Museum: A museum that showcases the history and culture of Tokyo from the Edo period to the present day.

Natural Attractions of Asakusa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sumida Park: A popular cherry blossom viewing spot that runs along the Sumida River.
  • Tokyo Skytree: A 634-meter-tall broadcasting tower and observation deck that provides panoramic views of Tokyo.
  • Asakusa Hanayashiki: An amusement park that has operated since 1853.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Asakusa

Asakusa is a great starting point for walking and biking tours around Tokyo. Some of the best routes include:

  • Asakusa to Ueno Park: This route takes you through Yanaka, a historic district that’s home to some of Tokyo’s most beautiful temples and shrines.
  • Asakusa to Tokyo Tower: This route takes you through the heart of Tokyo, including some of the city’s most famous landmarks.
  • Asakusa to Odaiba: This route takes you across the Sumida River to the man-made island of Odaiba, where you can enjoy stunning views of Tokyo Bay.

Best Things to Do in Asakusa: Activities and Tours

  • Kimono Rental and Dress-Up: Dress up in a traditional Japanese kimono and explore the streets of Asakusa.
  • Tokyo Asakusa Rickshaw Tour: Take a rickshaw ride through the historic streets of Asakusa and learn about its history and culture.
  • Asakusa Food Tour: Sample some of the best local food and drink that Asakusa has to offer on this guided food tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Asakusa

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center.
Day 2 Stroll through Sumida Park, then visit Edo-Tokyo Museum.
Day 3 Walk or bike to Ueno Park for a picnic and visit the Tokyo National Museum.
Day 4 Take the Tokyo Asakusa Rickshaw Tour, then head to Tokyo Skytree.
Day 5 Enjoy a day of fun at Asakusa Hanayashiki, Tokyo’s oldest amusement park.
Day 6 Take a day trip to Kamakura, a historic town that’s home to several beautiful temples.
Day 7 Explore the streets of Asakusa and try some of the local food and drink.

Food and Drink Scene of Asakusa

Must-Try Dishes

  • Senbei: Japanese rice crackers that come in a variety of flavors and shapes.
  • Asakusa Menchi: A deep-fried meat and vegetable cutlet that’s a popular street food in Asakusa.
  • Monjayaki: A savory pancake that’s a specialty of Tokyo and a popular dish in Asakusa.

Local Beverages

  • Sake: A traditional Japanese rice wine that’s popular in Asakusa.
  • Shochu: A distilled Japanese liquor that’s commonly served as a mixer with other drinks.
  • Yuzu Citrus Tea: A refreshing tea made from the aromatic yuzu fruit that’s popular in Asakusa.

Where to Stay in Asakusa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Asakusa offers a range of accommodations for different budgets and needs. Some popular options include:

  • Ryokan Kamogawa Asakusa: A traditional Japanese inn that offers tatami-mat rooms and a communal bath.
  • Khaosan World Asakusa Ryokan & Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel with private and dormitory-style rooms.
  • The Gate Hotel Asakusa Kaminarimon by Hulic: A modern hotel that offers stunning views of the Tokyo Skytree.

What to Buy in Asakusa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Daruma Dolls: Red-colored dolls that are considered to be symbols of good luck and perseverance in Japanese culture.
  • Sensu Fans: Handheld Japanese fans that are often decorated with traditional Japanese designs.
  • Kokeshi Dolls: Wooden dolls that are painted with a simple and stylized design.

Local Culture and Customs of Asakusa

Asakusa is a bastion of traditional Japanese culture, and visitors are expected to show respect to local customs and traditions. Some important things to keep in mind include:

  • Removing your shoes when entering traditional Japanese buildings and temples.
  • Bowing when greeting someone as a sign of respect.
  • Respecting queues and waiting your turn in public places.

Best Time to Visit Asakusa

The best time to visit Asakusa is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) seasons. These are the times when the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded compared to the summer months. Additionally, spring and fall also offer the best opportunity to enjoy the cherry blossom and fall foliage seasons, respectively.

Do’s and Don’ts of Asakusa

Do:

  • Dress modestly and remove your shoes when entering traditional Japanese buildings and temples.
  • Use public transportation or walk/bike when exploring the city.
  • Try some of the local food and drink that Asakusa has to offer.

Don’t:

  • Touch or remove any items from shrines or temples.
  • Speak loudly or make loud noises in public places.
  • Refuse any food or drink offered to you by locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Asakusa

Asakusa is generally a safe and friendly district. However, it’s always important to take normal safety precautions, such as:

  • Keeping an eye on your valuables in crowded places.
  • Using common sense when interacting with strangers.

Health in Asakusa

Asakusa has good healthcare facilities, with several hospitals and clinics located within the district. Visitors are advised to carry appropriate medical insurance and seek medical attention immediately in case of an emergency.

Getting to Asakusa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Asakusa

  • Narita International Airport: Tokyo’s main airport, located about 60 km east of Asakusa.
  • Haneda Airport: Tokyo’s second airport, located about 30 km south of Asakusa.

Bus Stations Near Asakusa

  • Asakusa Bus Station: Served by several local and long-distance bus services.
  • Tokyo Skytree Bus Station: Served by several local and long-distance bus services.

Other Options

  • Subway: Asakusa can be easily reached by subway via the Ginza Line, Asakusa Line, or Tobu Skytree Line.
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Tokyo but can be expensive, especially during rush hour.

How to Get Around in Asakusa

Asakusa is a compact district that’s easy to explore on foot or by bike. However, visitors can also use the following modes of transportation:

  • Subway: Asakusa can be easily reached by subway via the Ginza Line, Asakusa Line, or Tobu Skytree Line.
  • Bus: Several local and long-distance bus services connect Asakusa to other parts of Tokyo.
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Asakusa but can be expensive, especially during rush hour.

Where to Go Next from Asakusa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Asakusa is a great starting point for exploring other parts of Tokyo or taking day trips to nearby destinations, such as:

  • Tokyo Disneyland: A theme park that’s located about 15 km east of Asakusa.
  • Kamakura: A historic town that’s home to several beautiful temples and shrines.
  • Nikko: A town located north of Tokyo that’s known for its beautiful nature and historic temples.

Conclusion

Asakusa is a unique and vibrant part of Tokyo that offers visitors a range of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and great food and drink. Whether you’re looking to explore traditional Japanese culture or just enjoy the lively atmosphere, Asakusa has something to offer everyone. With this comprehensive guide, you’re sure to get the most out of your visit to this fascinating district.

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