3 recommended sightseeing spots in Asakusa, Tokyo
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Asakusa, Tokyo is popular among foreign tourists for its modern city and traditional architecture. This time we will introduce three recommended spots where you can enjoy Asakusa even during a short stay.
About access
The time required from the nearest station to Kaminarimon is as follows.
Although the station name is Asakusa Station, please note that the stations are located far apart from each other. It is about a 3-5 minute walk from Nakamise to Sensoji Temple. ・About 4 minutes walk from Tokyo Metro Ginza Line "Asakusa Station"
・About 5 minutes walk from Tobu Skytree Line "Asakusa Station" ・About 5 minutes walk from
Toei Subway Asakusa Line "Asakusa Station Exit A4"
・About 5 minutes walk from Tsukuba Express "Asakusa Station" 7 minutes
Kaminarimon
Kaminarimon (officially known as Fujinraijinmon) is famous as a symbol of Asakusa.It is said that it was originally located around 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).
The large red lanterns stand out, but be sure to also take a look at the impressive statues of Fujin and Raijin placed on the left and right gateposts. Kaminarimon is also lit up at night, so you can enjoy a different atmosphere than during the day.
INFORMATION
name | Kaminarimon |
address | Kaminarimon, Taito-ku, Tokyo |
telephone number | 03-3842-0181 (Sensoji Temple Inquiries accepted from 10:00 to 16:00, except Sundays) |
Official URL | http://www.senso-ji.jp/guide/kaminari.html |
Nakamise
Asakusa's Nakamise is said to have started between 1688 and 1735. As the population of Edo increased, the number of worshipers at Sensoji Temple also increased, and the people in the neighborhood who were responsible for cleaning the temple grounds were given permission to open shops on the approach to the shrine and within the temple grounds.
Currently, there are a total of 89 stores crammed into Nakamise, which is about 250 meters long. Traditional accessories such as hair ornaments and folding fans are also sold here, making them popular among foreign tourists. Why not experience the atmosphere of Edo at Nakamise, which is always lively no matter when you visit?
INFORMATION
name | Nakamise |
address | 1-36 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo |
telephone number | 03-3844-3350 (Nakamise Hall 10:00-17:00) |
Official URL | http://www.asakusa-nakamise.jp/ |
Sensoji Temple
Sensoji Temple is famous as the oldest temple in Tokyo, with a history of nearly 1,400 years.It is one of Tokyo's leading tourist spots, with approximately 2.9 million people visiting each year for the New Year's visit alone. Some buildings are illuminated until around 11pm, and you can enter the temple grounds 24 hours a day, making it a great place for a date night.
The most prominent building at Sensoji Temple is the 53.3m tall five-storied pagoda. With the construction of the Sky Tree nearby, the contrast between the old and new towers is a sight to behold. At Hozomon Gate, which is located in front of Nakamise Street after passing through Kaminarimon Gate, pay attention to the back side. A huge waraji weighing 500 kg is on display.
INFORMATION
name | Sensoji Temple |
address | 2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo |
telephone number | 03-3842-0181 (Inquiries accepted from 10:00 to 16:00, excluding Sundays) |
Official URL | http://www.senso-ji.jp/ |