Asakusa

I completely forgot about Tokyo’s No.1 tourist spot. Needless to say, it’s “Asakusa.” If it’s your first-time visiting Japan, this is almost certainly the place you will be taken to. Of course, Sensoji Temple is the main attraction. Enjoy your first visit to Asakusa!

Sensoji Temple

When you think of Asakusa, you think of Sensoji Temple. The Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) is famous, isn’t it? It is the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo. After passing through Nakamise Street, you will reach the Hozo-mon Gate. Beyond that, you will see the main hall with its beautifully curved roof. Before paying your respects, there are many things to do, such as drawing fortunes, purifying yourself at the water basin, and bathing in the incense smoke from the incense burner. Of course, choosing various amulets for different purposes is also enjoyable. The five-story pagoda is also beautiful.

Nakamise Street

If you want to get souvenirs and snacks, head to Nakamise Street. I recommend chopsticks, ningyo-yaki (sweet cakes shaped like dolls), and rice crackers, but aren’t these Japanese sandals with cute strap designs lovely too? Since they are handmade, the price is accordingly high.

Sumida River

The Sumida River is deeply connected with the origins of Sensoji Temple. After visiting Sensoji Temple and Asakusa Shrine and passing through the temple grounds, you will arrive at Sumida Park. While it is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing during the sakura season, you can enjoy the majestic view of Tokyo Skytree across the river all year round. It’s a spot where tourists definitely take commemorative photos. A big hit is the Asahi Beer Headquarters, with its golden (beer-colored) building topped with foam. Next to it is a unique piece of art that often becomes a quiz question from Noripy. The design of the cruise ships running along the waterfront is also stylish.

Food Strolling

Inbound customers often surprise me, even though I am the one who is supposed to introduce them to Japan. There seems to be a ranking list of “street food you must try in Asakusa,” and I accompanied them to try some of them like curry bread and minced meat cutlets. You can find them behind Nakamise Street. I admire the research skills of the tourists.

Nishi-Sando

Around Sensoji Temple, there are many shopping streets where you can shop and dine all day without getting bored. If you feel playful, head to Nishi-Sando, where you can enjoy the festival stall atmosphere at any time. You can even try your hand at goldfish scooping.

Matcha

Matcha is popular all over the world. The souvenir shop and café “Kaminari Issa” has several locations around Sensoji Temple. You can actually see the process of tea leaves being turned into matcha powder. The café offers authentic matcha, which you can enjoy with traditional Japanese sweets, so I often stop by.

Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center

This Culture and Tourist Information Center, designed by world-renowned architect Kengo Kuma, offers stunning views from its 8th-floor observation terrace. You can see the surrounding scenery stretching far into the distance. Even the bustling Nakamise Street looks quite different from above.

Vegan Ramen

Ramen is now famous worldwide. But for those who can’t eat it because it contains char siu, here’s some good news. Yoroiya, a very popular ramen shop on Denboin Street, also offers vegan ramen.

Foodie’s Delight!

Located in front of Asakusa Station, the famous “Kamiya Bar” was founded in 1880 (Meiji 13). The food is delicious, and the prices are reasonable, which makes me happy. 
Now, let’s enjoy lunch. 
Foodie, satisfied!