Asakusa is never boring! Always there’re thousands of fun things to do in Asakusa.
However, I covered only the 15 best things that most tourists enjoy. I also briefly discussed its history to increase your joy because people sometimes miss some important points to notice without knowing much about its background.
Finally, I covered how you can get access to Asakusa from different parts of Tokyo. I’m sure you’ll find all the information you need about Asakusa.
History:
Asakusa was an entertainment district during the Edo Period. The area was actually a part of Kuramae, where a storehouse of the district was located. Servants used to receive rice or other grains as a salary.
Many people used to visit the storehouse. They also came to see Asakusa Yoshiwara Red Light District, which was famous for entertainment in Edo Period.
But Yoshiwara is no more except a place and Yoshiwara Shrine. However, Asakusa has remained an entertainment district in Tokyo.
In the present day, this lively district is home to many activities, from shopping to dining to sightseeing.
In addition, it’s an excellent place to get to know Tokyo’s history, as the district is home to some interesting sites like the Imado Shrine, Yoshiwara Shrine, Asakusa Shrine, and Sensoji Temple.
Besides, Asakusa is also a good place to spend your time and perfect for those days when you need to get away from your busy life.
So what are you waiting for? Get out there and have some fun in Asakusa!
Top things to do in Asakusa
Asakusa is a buzzing city with endless shopping opportunities as well as fantastic places to eat. Start your day with a stroll through the merchants’ alley, home to some of Tokyo’s famous yakitori restaurants.
Then, it’s a place to see some fantastic entertainment streets for shopping.
After dinner, take a stroll down the river to view the fantastic lanterns on Asakusa streets. In the evening, why not enjoy a performance at one of the many kabuki theatres at Asakusa Engei Hall?
Asakusa is a place where you can explore and enjoy all that the city has to offer.
Are you still reading?
That’s good.
Let me show you the best things to do in Asakusa from my real long experience. You can even book several Asakusa tours.
Table of Contents
1) Information Centre:
Let’s start!
Asakusa is one of the best tourist spots in Japan. So, it has good tourist facilities. It also has a tourist information center called Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center.
The Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center is a great place to start if you want to learn more about the area. They have exhibits on local history, geisha culture, and more.
Additionally, the center has a wide range of maps and guides. Finally, the staff can point you in the right direction if you need assistance finding something specific!
So, if you’re in the area, check out the Asakusa Information Centre!
Besides, from the top floor, you can see Sensoji Temple, Asahi Beer Tower, Sumida River, Tokyo Skytree, and some of the areas of Tokyo. It’s completely free.
Furthermore, sometimes, the center hosts cultural events for tourists, and you may get a chance to experience it if you’re at the right time of the event.
2) Temple and Shrine:
Visit Sensoji, Tokyo’s oldest temple, built-in 645.
Senso-ji Temple is also famous for its beautiful gardens and surroundings. Just next to it is Asakusa Shrine, where the most famous Sanja Matsuri takes place every year.
World war ii destroyed many historical spots. However, some of the parts of temples and shrines survived, including Asakusa Shrine.
#a)Sensoji Temple:
If you’re in Asakusa and looking for something to do, there’s no need to look further than Sensō-ji Temple. It’s Tokyo’s oldest temple.
Moreover, you’ll see the famous Buddha Kannon here.
The temple grounds are home to many shops, restaurants, and beautiful gardens. It’s a perfect place to visit if you want to relax.
Moreover, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Many festivals take place every day on the temple’s grounds. In addition, people open many food stalls, and you can taste foods from a local festival.
#b)Yoshiwara Shrine:
If you’re looking for Edo old historical shrine experience, try Yoshiwara. This site was home to many red-light districts, where people could come to shop, eat delicious food, and have entertainment.
The area is no more such a great thing to do. But still, many tourists come to see this historic Yoshiwara Shrine.
3) Nakamise Street:
Nakamise Shopping Street is the symbol of Asakusa and a shadow of Edo. You’ll find all from sweets to snacks here.
The street is only 250 meters long.
However, it’s the most beautiful shopping street in Tokyo. The shopping street is between Kaminarimon and Hozomon Gate before arriving at the main hall of Sensoji Temple.
If you want to buy souvenirs or eat something special, head to Nakamise Shopping Street. Finally, take a walk down Nakamise Shopping Street and experience the many shops and Japanese sweets there.
Nakamise is the street in the middle of the two shopping lines, and it’s a must-visit for anyone visiting the city. It’s lined with shops making it an Edo-looking place to spend an afternoon viewing the culture.
#a) Kibi Dango:
If you’re looking for something to do in Asakusa, check out the Kibi Dango shop. This popular sweet snack is made from rice flour, sugar, and milk and is delicious and healthy.
Other activities you can try in Asakusa include shopping or sightseeing, but if you’re in a hurry, try visiting Kibi Dango. It’s a popular sweet snack that is sure to satisfy your cravings.
#b)Ningyoyaki:
Ningyoyaki is one kind of doll-shaped baked cake. These sweets look like sponge cakes because these sweets are made from red bean paste. These originated during the Edo Period.
You can find Kimuraya Ningyoyaki at Nakamise street. I’m sure you’ll like it.
#c) Souvenirs:
Do you want to take souvenirs for your friends and family?
Visit the many souvenir shops that line the street.
Last but not least, don’t forget to enjoy the street’s famous nightlife – it’s sure to get you in the mood for a night out on the town!
No worries!
You’ll get lots of choices to purchase, such as Japanese umbrellas, toys, colorful hand fans, lucky cat figurine Maneki Neko and t-shirts.
In short, all kinds of Japanese souvenirs, including famous Japanese dolls.
Hina Ningyo and Kyo Ningyo are trendy Japanese dolls. If you buy a gift for kids, you can try one such doll.
The best way is to Book Asakusa Tour to fully enjoy Asakusa.
4) Sumida Park:
Sumida Park is a beautiful spot and perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride. The park has many different attractions.
Be sure to check out the Cherry Blossoms in spring–they’re a sight to see!
The park is the perfect place to go if you want to escape the city! Sumida Park is also good for meeting up with friends and having fun.
So, whether planning to have a stroll or take things to the next level, Sumida park is the perfect destination.
5) Don Quijote:
Tokyo is a city full of attractions and activities, but one spot stands out above the rest – Asakusa Don Quijote. The shopping mall is famous for its various types of goods.
If you’re looking for an authentic Japanese experience, Asakusa Don Quijote is the place to go!
It also has a restaurant known for its delicious Japanese cuisine.
The streets around the Asakusa Don Quijote look authentic Edo.
6) Hanayashiki:
There’s no need to be limited to the city limits when it comes to things to do!
Hanayashiki, located in the heart of Asakusa, is a beautiful entertainment park. It’s perfect for all ages and interests.
At the same time, there are many different restaurants, shops, and a wide range of souvenirs and handicrafts around.
In short, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Hanayashiki, so don’t miss out!
It may not have a giant roller coaster. However, the roller coaster is in a different model suitable for kids.
7) Hire a Rickshaw:
Asakusa is a lively and charming district in Tokyo known for its numerous shopping opportunities as well as its historical and cultural landmarks.
But don’t forget to enjoy some of the simple pleasures in life – like a ride on the rickshaw.
And if that’s not your thing, there’s always the opportunity to snap some photos! It’s always fun to capture the little moments in life, and Asakusa is a perfect place to do just that. If you’re looking to get out of the city and explore, Asakusa is a great option.
Be sure to bargain hard, as rickshaw rides can be pretty expensive! And last, don’t forget to snap a few photos while you’re there!
However, the cost for two people is usually 7,000-10,000 yen. But, of course, sometimes, it depends on the situation and the weather.
Besides, you can hire Kimono, roam like locals, and that’s how people used to walk in the traditional way. Moreover, you can keep photos as a memory of Japanese culture in your photo album.
The benefits of hiring a rickshaw are-
The puller can be your a
- local guide
- photographer
- good information
Read more about how to book a Rickshaw
8) River Cruising:
The banks of the Sumida are low. That’s why, during Edo, people used to call Asakusa Shitamachi, which means low city. So, on low land, it’s easy to go to the river and go fishing by rowing on a small boat.
Nowadays, many people sit at the banks of the Sumida River and enjoy beautiful views of the river. Of course, you can enjoy it too.
Did you try Tokyo Water Bus?
Just opposite the Cruise station, there is a water bus station. Buses jump on the water and keep running like boats on the river.
Why not try?
It’s fun to ride on a water bus.
On the other hand, you can go to Odaiba from the Asakusa Cruise Station by cruise. It takes about one hour.
The autumn season is the perfect time to embark on a fun and easy-to-navigate cruise down the Sumida River in Asakusa, Tokyo.
However, make sure to book your cruise early as it gets busy, especially during holiday periods. This is a great activity with friends and family as it’s fun and easy to navigate.
You’ll also have a lot of fun taking photos and enjoying the view while cruising down the river.
Isn’t autumn the best time of the year?
So get out there and enjoy the sights and sounds of Asakusa!
9) Azumabashi Bridge:
It’s also known as the best sightseeing spot in Asakusa and the best photo spot in Asakusa.
However, no one will tell you about the bridge. You can take the most viral Tokyo’s iconic Skytree, Sumida City Hall, and Asahi Beer Hall photos from the bridge.
At the same time, you also can take Sumida and cruise photos from here. The scenes become even more gorgeous at night.
So, if you’re looking to snap some photos of the Tokyo skyline, head over to the Azumabashi Bridge. The bridge is a great backdrop for selfies or group shots and offers an excellent view of Asakusa.
So what are you waiting for?
You don’t need to say you’re in central Tokyo. Your photos will tell others.
It’s a great spot for photo shooting.
Don’t forget to take out a cup of hot coffee from a cafe to enjoy the lovely views from the Sumida banks.
10) Kappabashi:
Kappabashi is a popular shopping and eating destination in Tokyo. It’s also a great place to visit as it has a variety of shops and restaurants.
If you’re looking for Japanese kitchen materials, head to Kappabashi. The area is a kitchen goods shopping arcade. You’ll nowhere see such a kitchen street in Tokyo.
You’ll see here everything from Sake cups to restaurant big pots.
So, whether you’re shopping for souvenirs or just taking a break, stop by Kappabashi on your next trip to Tokyo!
11) Hoppy Street:
Have you ever heard about Happy Street?
Asakusa is a lively and vibrant shopping district in Tokyo, and it’s the perfect place to spend a day exploring its many attractions. Start your day with a delicious breakfast from street vendors, and continue to savor delicious food options as you walk around the area.
However, never compare these with Hoppy Street, a local restaurant paradise filled with local food and drinks.
Hoppy is one kind of beer-flavored beverage in Japan containing only 0.8 alcohol.
Before, it didn’t contain alcohol at all—people who liked beer but didn’t have enough money to buy beer used to drink Hoppy.
But, I call the street ‘Happy Street.’
You’ll see all the happy people on the street. I can never take a good shot here because I don’t want to bother people when they are happy.
However, I can put the Google map, and you can see photos and reviews here. You don’t need to go to any downtown Tokyo to experience it.
If shopping’s not your thing, head to Hoppy Street(Happy Street) and be one of the happy people.
12) Engei Hall & Yokocho:
Have you ever heard about Asakusa Engei Hall?
This traditional Japanese theater has been operating in Asakusa for over 130 years. The hall features kabuki (a form of classical Japanese drama).
So, I always recommend seeing performances at Engei Hall.
For something more filling, try some okonomiyaki (Japanese pancake) from an acclaimed restaurant like Yakuza Okonomiyaki, located just around the corner.
Yokocho is just in front of Theatre Hall, under Richmond Hotel, on the fourth floor.
‘Yokocho’ means ‘a local street.’
But Asakusa Yokocho is not a real street. Instead, it’s a food court decorated with beautiful Japanese light that symbolizes Edo.
It provides an unrivaled view of the red lanterns that line the streets during the Festival of the Lanterns, which falls on a weekend in late November or early December.
The floor is not only famous for delicious local cuisine but also for beautiful Japanese light decoration.
So, Yokocho offers a glimpse into Tokyo’s underworld during the Edo.
Besides, you can experience old Asakusa on the first floor. The floor keeps an old Asakusa Diorama.
If you’re looking for somewhere to relax after a busy day, head to one of the many pubs or cafes located in Yokocho. You’re sure to enjoy your time spent on this lively floor!
13) Tokyo Skytree:
Why Skytree?
Yes, Skytree is in Solamachi Town in Sumida City. It may be the main attraction in Sumida City, but there are plenty of things to do with Asakusa and Skytree.
Asakusa to Skytree is only 3 minutes by train. You can use Metro Toei Asakusa Line and JR Tobu Line.
Do you know this 3 minutes journey by JR Tobu Line is tremendously romantic?
Tourists who visit Asakusa often don’t miss this romantic journey. The Famous Sumida River is between Asakusa and Skytree.
People can see the river far from the train. Besides, in the morning and evening, the sun’s reflections on the Asahi Beer Tower look wonderfully beautiful.
At the same time, Skytree is the tallest tower in Japan. So when you’re in Asakusa, you can spend one hour at Skytree and come back by Tobu Line.
You can go up and view beautiful Tokyo from the Tembo Deck.
It has an aquarium, a food court, a post museum, and hundreds of different kinds of shops and restaurants.
Tokyo Skytree has very nice Observation Decks from where people can enjoy nice views of Tokyo.
14) Try a Tea Ceremony:
Do you know what a Japanese tea ceremony is?
The tea ceremony is a traditional ceremonial method of drinking green tea on the tatami mat. It’s one kind of respected way to show hospitality to the guests in Japan.
In short, it symbolizes respect, love, harmony, and purity.
However, people usually don’t do it. But it became an exciting ceremony for foreigners to experience.
If you’re looking for an event that is sure to impress, consider booking a tea ceremony in the Asakusa area. This particular experience will allow you to learn about traditional Japanese tea ceremonies.
On the other hand, you’ll enjoy a delicious cup of tea with others.
During your time in Tokyo, this may be the perfect way to relax and enjoy some beautiful scenery!
15) Shopping:
However, Nakamise Street is also a must-visit. It’s home to beautiful temples as well as plenty of restaurants. So, stop by Asakusa, whether you’re shopping or just taking a stroll!
Where to eat?
Tokyo’s famed Asakusa district is excellent for enjoying a night out with friends. With its vibrant shopping and nightlife scenes, it’s no wonder Asakusa is one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations.
Asakusa is a perfect place to eat and has many different restaurants. So whatever your appetite, be sure to explore the Asakusa district!
But if you don’t have any choice, head to Azuma Umaimon Restaurant.
Azuma is a traditional Japanese restaurant. Besides, it also has a western-style menu. People speak perfect English, and they’ll welcome you warmly.
Where to stay in Asakusa?
If you stay in Asakusa, you have lots of choices. The rent of the hotel accommodation is more reasonable than Ginza downtown or other downtown Tokyo districts.
You can try
- Asakusa View Hotel
- Richmond Hotel
- Tobu Hotel
- Richmond Premier Hotel
Nearby Attractions:
Check out the nearby attractions if you’re in Asakusa, including the Kaminarimon Gate.
There are a variety of stores and restaurants near Kaminarimon. Lastly, don’t forget to take some selfies with the big lantern with the local atmosphere.
Besides, Tokyo Skytree and Ryogoku Sumo Stadium, and the Japanese Sword Museum are close. Moreover, it takes only 10 minutes on foot.
Japanese Sword Museum, you’ll get a brief idea about swords, including sharp samurai swords.
Final words:
Look no further if you’re looking for things to do in Tokyo’s lively and historic Asakusa district! My comprehensive guide includes information on where to find the best shopping and eats and the must-see attractions. So make sure to bookmark this page and come back to it to plan your perfect Asakusa trip!
Read more info about Asakusa.
How to Get to Asakusa?
Asakusa Station is the central station. It has several Tokyo Metro Subway Lines, such as Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Toei Asakusa Line, and Tsukuba Express.
Ueno: 4 minutes by Tokyo Metro Ginza Line
Narita Airport and Haneda Airport: Toei Asakusa Line.
Tokyo Station:
Tokyo Station(JR Yamanote Line)- Kanda Station-(Ginza Subway Line) Asakusa
Shinjuku:
Shinjuku(JR Chuo Line)-Kanda Station-(Ginza Subway Line) Asakusa.
Google Questions:
What are some fun things to do in Asakusa?
Some fun things to do in Asakusa are
- -See the Sensoji Temple
- -Take a walk through Kaminarimon Gate
- -Walk around Sumida Park
- -Check out some of the shops and restaurants in the area
- roam like locals
- take good photos
What is Asakusa known for?
Asakusa is best known for its traditional localization, Nakamise Shopping Street, Sensoji Temple, and the many souvenir shops in the area.
What does Asakusa mean in Japanese?
Asakusa is the name of a district in Tokyo, and it means “village on the river.”
How much does it cost to go to Asakusa Hanayashiki?
Asakusa hanayashiki 1,000 yen.
Reddit Questions:
5 Amazing Things to do in Asakusa, Tokyo
1. Check out Sensoji and the surrounding areas
2. Walk around Sumida Park
3. Take a look at some of the interesting shops in Asakusa
4. Have lunch or dinner at one of the local restaurants
5. Enjoy your time at Kaminarimon Gate
Quora Question:
What is the ideal time to travel to Japan?
When is the best time to visit Japan?
The ideal time to travel to Japan depends on what you want to see and do. Generally, the hotter months are busier, but many other things are open during those times too. So it really all comes down to your interests!
Book reasonable hotel in Asakusa: