The 11 Best Things to Do in Asakusa in 2024
Asakusa is a historic district in Tokyo, Japan, known for its mix of traditional and modern cultures! Asakusa's allure lies in its ability to blend traditional charm with modern delights, creating a unique atmosphere that is both captivating and unforgettable. Represented in countless Tokyo guidebooks, Asakusa has become synonymous with Japanese culture, offering visitors a glimpse into the country's rich heritage.
Imagine wandering through streets where every corner tells a story, from the majestic Sensoji Temple that whispers ancient tales, to the lively Underground Street bustling with shops and eateries.
Whether you're savoring the best ramen the area has to offer or discovering hidden gems near Asakusa, this guide is your ticket to experiencing the very best of this enchanting district.
Join us as we uncover the 11 best things to do near Asakusa in 2024, ensuring your visit to this historic neighborhood is nothing short of extraordinary!
So, let's take a look at all the places to visit in Asakusa, along with all the must-do activities!
Take a Peek from the Top
One of the best places to enjoy panoramic views of Asakusa, including landmarks such as the Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise-dori, Senso-ji Temple and the Tokyo Skytree, is the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center.
This modern building, designed by the renowned architect Kengo Kuma, features a free observation deck on its eighth floor, providing visitors with stunning views without any admission fee. There's also a cafe on the 8th floor called the Miharashi Café, where you can enjoy light meals, snacks, beers and other refreshments.
For those seeking an alternative viewpoint, Asakusa Hare Terrace is another location that provides a distinct view of Asakusa's skyline, especially beautiful during the sunset.
Address: 2-chōme-18-9 Kaminarimon, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0034, Japan (map)
Opening Hours: Open Daily.
Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center: 9am to 8pm.
The Observation Deck: 9am to 10pm.
Miharashi Café: 10am to 8pm.
Admission Fees: Free
How to Reach: Take the Tokyo Metro to Asakusa Station and exit at Exit 2. A short 5-minute walk along the Nakamise Shopping Street will lead you directly to the center.
Explore Nakamise-dōri
This 250-metre shopping haven begins at the iconic Kaminarimon Gate and extends all the way up to the historic Sensoji Temple. Nakamise-dōri is not just a place to shop; it's a cultural experience where visitors can immerse themselves in the atmosphere of old Tokyo. The street's history dates back to the 17th century, making it one of the oldest shopping areas in Japan. Here, visitors can find everything from traditional arts and crafts to snacks like ningyo-yaki (sweet bean-filled cakes) and imo yokan (sweet potato paste sweets).
Explore the district's traditional side streets with a 3-hour tour, passing through Tokyo's historic downtown area, also known as “shitamachi”, and enjoy an authentic Japanese lunch with a sashimi option, featuring fresh fish from Tsukiji market.
Address: 1 Chome-36-3 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan (map)
Opening Hours: Open Daily, most shops are open from 10am to 7pm.
Admission Fees: Free
How to Reach: It is a 3-5-minute walk from the Tobu, Toei, and Tokyo Metro Asakusa stations. You can reach the street in about 7 minutes from TX Asakusa Station on the Tsukuba Express Line.
Sample Traditional Japanese Snacks
Sampling traditional Japanese snacks in Asakusa is a delightful way to immerse yourself in the local culture and cuisine. Among the must-try local treats, Ningyōyaki and melon pan stand out as iconic Asakusa specialties.
Ningyōyaki is a traditional Japanese sweet made of sponge cake filled with sweet red bean paste, taking various shapes like the five-storied pagoda, Raijin (the God of Thunder), a paper lantern, and a dove.
Melon pan is another beloved snack, a sweet bun that resembles a melon but does not typically taste like one. It's especially popular at Kagetsudo, a long-standing bakery in Asakusa known for its jumbo melon pan.
For a luxurious dining experience, visit Heijoen, a renowned Wagyu beef restaurant in Tokyo. Established in 1970, Heijoen offers high-quality A5 Wagyu beef that will tantalise your taste buds
Address: Kimura-ya: 2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032 (map)
Opening Hours: Open Daily, 9am to 7pm
Admission Fees: Free
How to Reach: You can get to Kimura-ya by taking the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Toei Asakusa Line, Tobu Isesaki Line (Tobu Sky Tree Line), or Tsukuba Express. The nearest station is Asakusa Station, which is 0.5 km away.
Get Your Fortune Told
At Sensō-ji Temple, the tradition of O-mikuji involves randomly selecting fortunes written on strips of paper. Visitors make a small offering, usually SGD 1, to draw an O-mikuji from a box.
If the fortune is favorable, one may keep it; however, if it's unfavorable, it's customary to tie the strip to designated areas at the temple to avoid bad luck. This practice is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture and offers a unique experience of participating in local traditions. Remember that Sensoji Temple's closing time is at 5pm.
You can end the evening with a voyage on a traditional Edo-style Yakatabune cruise along the Sumida River. Enjoy a lavish Japanese feast of premium seafood like tempura and sashimi, with unlimited beverages, while taking in Tokyo's skyline and iconic landmarks.
Address: 2-chōme-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan (map)
Opening Hours: Open Daily, 6am to 5pm
Admission Fees: Free
How to Reach: You can reach Sensoji Temple in 5 minutes on foot from the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, the Toei Asakusa Line, the Tobu Sky Tree Line, and the Tsukuba Express Asakusa Station.
Rent a Kimono
In Asakusa, wearing a kimono adds a special touch to the exploration of this traditional district. Kimono rental services in Asakusa cater to a wide audience, offering a diverse range of styles, from traditional to modern, with over 700 colors available.
Hanaka, conveniently located next to Asakusa Station on the Ginza Line, offers a wide selection of styles to choose from. Complete your look with an obi belt and get sandals for an authentic Japanese experience. Rent your Kimono in Asakusa now!
The cost of renting a kimono can vary, but options are generally affordable, with standard packages ranging from approximately SGD 26.75 to SGD 53.69. These packages often include sandals, socks, undergarments, and hairpins, with additional options available for special occasion kimonos at higher prices.
But if you want to try something truly unique and feel like a real ninja, don authentic ninja costumes and master the art of shuriken throwing with ninja training in Asakusa. Test your skills with a Fukiya blowgun and train with ninja swords. You also enjoy a themed lunch and beverages, with options for all dietary preferences.
Address: Hanaka: Japan, 〒111-0034 Tokyo, Taito City, Kaminarimon, 2-chōme−3−7 ドゥエル浅草Ⅳ ４Ｆ(map)
Opening Hours: Open Daily, 9:30am to 6:30pm
Admission Fees: Free; Renting a Kimono at Hanaka will cost you SGD 59.25.
How to Reach: You can also walk to Hanaka from Asakusa Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, which takes about 30 seconds.
Say a Little Prayer at Sensōji Temple
Visiting Sensōji Temple and participating in the traditional ritual of saying a prayer is a profound cultural experience. When you arrive, you'll enter through the Kaminarimon, or Thunder Gate, which is distinguished by its large red lantern. This gate serves as the entrance to a vibrant shopping street known as Nakamise, leading up to the temple's main complex.
To engage in the prayer ritual, you typically toss coins into a large offering box located in front of the main hall. After tossing the coins, you join your hands in prayer and bow slightly, reflecting a moment of respect and contemplation.
Address: 2-chōme-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan (map)
Opening Hours: Open Daily, 6am to 5pm
Admission Fees: Free
How to Reach: You can reach Sensoji Temple in 5 minutes on foot from the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, the Toei Asakusa Line, the Tobu Sky Tree Line, and the Tsukuba Express Asakusa Station.
Café Hop Around Asakusa
Café hopping in Asakusa, particularly around its backstreets and the nearby Kuramae area, offers a delightful way to immerse yourself in Tokyo's vibrant café culture beyond the usual landmarks. In Kuramae, you'll find places like Lucent Coffee, where the focus is on light-roasted beans that bring out acidic and fruity flavors. Another notable mention is Coffee Wrights Kuramae, the main roastery and café, which, despite its factory-like appearance, offers a cozy upstairs space to enjoy freshly roasted coffee.
For those with a sweet tooth, Dandelion Chocolate in Kuramae offers unique bean-to-bar chocolates while observing the manufacturing process.
Address: Lucent Coffee: Japan, 〒111-0042 Tokyo, Taito City, Kotobuki, 1-chōme−17−12 レモンビル １F (map)
Opening Hours: Open Thursday to Monday: 7:30am to 5:30pm; Tuesdays & Wednesdays Closed.
How to Reach: It's a 1-2 minute walk from Agora Place Tokyo Asakusa and Henn na Hotel Tokyo Asakusa Tawaramachi. You can take the Tawaramachi Station to get to Lucent Coffee.
Giggle at the Golden Turd
One of the quirky attractions in Asakusa is the "golden turd," officially known as the "Asahi Flame" or "Flamme d'Or." This unique landmark is part of the Asahi Beer Headquarters building and is designed to resemble a frothy beer mug with a flame on top. However, locals and visitors affectionately refer to it as the "golden turd" due to its resemblance to, well, a certain bodily function.
Don't forget to take pictures of this unique piece of architecture!
Address: 1-chōme-23-1 Azumabashi, Sumida City, Tokyo 130-0001, Japan (map)
Opening Hours: Open Daily, 11:30am to 10pm (Last orders for food: 9pm, for drinks: 9:30pm)
How to Reach: Take the Toei, Tokyo Metro, or Tobu Asakusa stations, which are about a 5-minute walk from the Asahi Beer Hall.
Check Out the Festivals
Sanja Matsuri is a grand festival celebrated annually in the heart of Asakusa, which honours the three founders of the Sensoji Temple, enshrined next door in the Asakusa Shrine. Scheduled to unfold from May 17 to 19, 2024, Sanja Matsuri is a highlight of Tokyo's cultural calendar, drawing nearly two million attendees.
Moreover, it features a parade of about 100 mikoshi (portable shrines) through the streets. These mikoshi represent the communal spirit of the local communities, bringing the town into a festive frenzy.
Address: 2-chōme-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan (map)
Opening Hours: Open Daily, 6am to 5pm
Admission Fees: Free
How to Reach: You can reach Sensoji Temple in 5 minutes on foot from the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, the Toei Asakusa Line, the Tobu Sky Tree Line, and the Tsukuba Express Asakusa Station.
Hop on Over to Hoppy Street
When in Asakusa, a visit to Hoppy Street offers a gateway to the area's exuberant nightlife. Named after the popular beverage "Hoppy," a beer-like drink, this street buzzes with an inviting atmosphere that beckons visitors into its embrace as the sun sets. Lined with izakayas (Japanese pubs) and eateries, Hoppy Street serves as the perfect backdrop for those looking to dive into Tokyo's lively night scene.
For an alternative nighttime experience, you can go to Asakusa Yokocho. Inspired by Japan's colorful matsuri, it blends modern design with traditional elements, providing a unique spot to explore Asakusa's diverse nightlife.
Address: Asakusa Yokocho: Japan, 〒111-0032 Tokyo, Taito City, Asakusa, 2-chōme−6−7 楽天地ビル 4F 東京 (map)
Opening Hours: Open Daily, 12pm to 11pm
Admission Fees: Free
How to Reach: To reach Asakusa Yokocho, you can walk from the Tsukuba express line's Asakusa Station, which is a one-minute walk away.
Ride a Rickshaw
Riding a rickshaw through Asakusa offers a unique and insightful way to explore its rich history and vibrant streets. This traditional transportation provides a personal view, allowing you to experience Asakusa's charm from a different perspective.
Rickshaw tours vary in duration, from quick 30-minute jaunts to immersive 190-minute explorations. Opting for a ride promises not only discovery but also a connection with the area, making it a must-do activity in Asakusa. Discover Tokyo's history, local religions at temples like Daidenpo-in Temple Garden and Matsuchiyama Shoden Honryuin, and experience local culture at Asakusa Engei Hall.
Address: In front of Kaminarimon Gate, 1-chōme-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan (map)
Opening Hours: Open Daily, 10am to 7pm
Activity Fees: SGD 51.69
How to Reach: Kaminarimon Gate is a three-minute walk from Tobu Asakusa Station.
Insider Tips to Make Your Trip to Asakusa Memorable and Unforgettable!
Get Around the City with a 24, 48, or 72 Hours Subway Pass
Navigate Tokyo's highlights effortlessly with the Tokyo Metro Subway! Reach iconic spots like Sensoji Temple, Shibuya Crossing, Shinjuku's Kabukicho, and more, and embrace the city's energy. Choose from 24, 48, or 72-hour unlimited passes to unlock added value at 350+ Tokyo locations.
Catch the Tokyo Skyliner for a Swift Journey to Tokyo's Heart!
Experience Japan's rapid transit at its best with the Tokyo Skyliner. Travel from Narita Airport to downtown Tokyo in as fast as 41 minutes. Enjoy comfortable interiors and convenient nonstop services to Ueno or Nippori Station, seamlessly connecting you to the heart of the city. Catch the Skyliner departing every 20 minutes for a swift and stylish journey.
Explore Tsukiji Market and Asakusa on a Foodie Adventure!
Discover Tokyo's vibrant food culture on a tour of Tsukiji Market and Asakusa. Start at Tsukiji Market, known for its fresh seafood and produce. Then, wander through Asakusa with a guide, learning about local customs. Taste delicious foods and experience Tokyo's culinary highlights.
Travel, Explore, Eat, Repeat!
Asakusa is a multifaceted neighbourhood that offers a diverse range of experiences, making it a must-visit destination for travellers to Tokyo!
Whether you're fascinated by the local culture and traditions, eager to explore the vibrant markets, or simply looking for a peaceful stroll along the river, Asakusa has something for everyone.
Commonly Asked Questions
What is Asakusa famous for?
Asakusa is famous for its historic attractions, notably the Sensoji Temple, the oldest and one of the most significant temples in Tokyo. It is home to the iconic Kaminarimon Gate and Nakamise Shopping Street.
Is Asakusa worth a visit?
Yes! Whether you're interested in history and culture or simply want to experience a different side of Tokyo, Asakusa has something for everyone!
How much time do you need in Asakusa?
If you're just looking to visit the main attractions, you can easily spend a few hours, but a full day or more is ideal for immersing yourself in everything Asakusa offers.
What are some of the must-try foods to eat in Asakusa?
Some of the must-try items include senbei (rice crackers), ningyo-yaki (small, doll-shaped cakes), and melon pan (a sweet bread with a crispy exterior).
What are the best times to visit Asakusa?
Asakusa is a great place to visit year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
What to do in Asakusa at night?
At night, Asakusa comes alive with the beautifully illuminated Sensoji Temple, offering a serene and mystical atmosphere.