3 recommended sightseeing spots in Asakusa, Tokyo

Asakusa, Tokyo, is popular with foreign tourists for its modern urban atmosphere and traditional architecture. Here are three recommended spots to enjoy Asakusa even on a short stay

Access

The travel time from the nearest station to Kaminarimon is as follows. Although the station name is Asakusa Station, please note that the locations are far apart. It is about a 3-5 minute walk through Nakamise to Sensoji Temple.
・Tokyo Metro Ginza Line "Asakusa Station" Approx. 4 minute walk
・Tobu Skytree Line "Asakusa Station" Approx. 5 minute walk
・Toei Subway Asakusa Line "Asakusa Station" A4 Exit Approx. 5 minute walk
・Tsukuba Express "Asakusa Station" Approx. 7 minute walk

Kaminarimon Gate

The famous Kaminarimon Gate (officially known as the Fujin and Raijinmon Gate) is a symbol of Asakusa. It is said that it was originally located in the area of ​​present-day Komagata, but was moved to Asakusa after the Kamakura period. The current Kaminarimon Gate was rebuilt in 1960 with a donation from Konosuke Matsushita (founder of Matsushita Electric Industrial)

The large red lantern stands out, but be sure to also take a look at the impressive statues of the wind god and thunder god placed on the gateposts on both sides. Kaminarimon is also lit up at night, so you can enjoy a different atmosphere from the daytime

INFORMATION

Nakamise

Nakamise in Asakusa is said to have begun between 1688 and 1735. As the population of Edo grew, the number of visitors to Sensoji Temple also increased, and it began when local people who were responsible for cleaning the temple grounds were given permission to set up shops on the approach to the temple and within the temple grounds

Currently, Nakamise is approximately 250 meters long and is packed with a total of 89 stores. Traditional accessories such as hair ornaments and folding fans are also sold here, making it popular with foreign tourists. Why not experience the atmosphere of Edo at Nakamise, which is always lively no matter when you visit?

INFORMATION

Sensoji Temple

Sensoji Temple boasts a history approaching 1,400 years and is famous as the oldest temple in Tokyo. It is one of Tokyo's leading tourist spots, with approximately 2.9 million visitors annually just for the first shrine visit of the year. Some buildings are lit up until around 11pm, and the temple grounds are open 24 hours a day, making it a great place for a date night

The most eye-catching building at Sensoji Temple is the 53.3m-tall five-story pagoda. With the construction of the Skytree nearby, the contrast between the old and new towers is a sight to behold. Go through Kaminarimon Gate and head towards Nakamise-dori Street to the back of Hozomon Gate. There, you'll find a giant straw sandal on display, weighing 500kg

INFORMATION

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