Complete guide to Asakusa: from attractions to how to get there

Asakusa is a place where you can experience the historical “Edo culture” of Japan. Asakusa is an area where Japanese tradition and modernity are perfectly blended and continues to attract visitors from all over the world. Recently, the number of foreign tourists has been increasing again, and we are happy to see it! This is a wonderful place to get involved with the townscape, where the atmosphere of the good old days still lives on, the places of interest that speak of its history, and the people who live there.

From the symbolic Kaminarimon and Sensoji Temple to Nakamise Street and the water buses along the Sumida River, Asakusa has a variety of attractions depending on the season. Sensoji Temple, in particular, is a symbol of the history and culture of the area, and once you step inside, you will feel as if time has stopped. The Nakamise Street is a great place for shopping and enjoying traditional local food and crafts.

Access from airports and major train stations is also very convenient, with direct transportation from Narita and Haneda airports and Tokyo Station. In addition, the Shinkansen bullet train from Shin-Osaka can take you there in about 4 hours. Furthermore, you will have no trouble finding a place to stay in Asakusa. From luxurious hotels to elegant ryokan inns, there are accommodations to make your trip even more special.

This article provides a guide to help you plan the best trip to Asakusa. It covers everything you need to know to enjoy Asakusa to the fullest, including details on tourist attractions, how to choose the best accommodations, and entry information for a comfortable trip. Now, armed with this information, begin your own special Asakusa exploration.

What is Asakusa like?

Asakusa is an essential stop for many visitors to Japan as an area where one can experience the traditional side of Tokyo. It is known for its streetscape, which is a cross between old and new, its lively restaurants, traditional shrines and temples, and the colorful festivals that take place here throughout the year. Asakusa is a unique place to experience Japanese culture, history, and modern vibrancy at the same time, and its charms will be unforgettable once you visit. It is May as I write this article, and the Sanja Festival will soon be upon us!

1-1. Sightseeing highlights in Asakusa

The sightseeing highlights of Asakusa are first and foremost Senso-ji Temple and the Kaminarimon Gate. These are the oldest Buddhist temples in Tokyo and have attracted visitors for centuries. Asakusa also offers many attractions for visitors, including the lively Nakamise Street and the beautiful scenery along the Sumida River.

1-2. History of Asakusa

Asakusa is one of the most historic areas of Tokyo, with a history that spans centuries. This was once the cultural center of the common people during the Edo period (1603-1868), and its influence is still evident in the streets and atmosphere of Asakusa. The presence of Senso-ji Temple indicates that this area has long been the object of people’s devotion.

1-3. Geographic location of asakusa

Asakusa is located in Taito Ward, Tokyo, not far from Tokyo Sky Tree. In addition, the Sumida River flows nearby, from the banks of which one can enjoy a spectacular view of Tokyo. The location is easily accessible from other sightseeing spots in the city, making it an ideal base for sightseeing in Tokyo. Asakusa can be reached by various means, including JR Ueno Station, subways such as the Toei Asakusa Line and Ginza Line, and buses.

1-4. Sightseeing spots in Asakusa

Senso-ji Temple and Kaminarimon, as well as Nakamise-dori and Hanayashiki, are the highlights of Asakusa. There is always some kind of new store opening.

Access to Asakusa

Located in central Tokyo, Asakusa is easily accessible from any major transportation system, making it very convenient for tourists. The local public transportation system is well developed, and it is also possible to access Asakusa directly from airports. Below are some of the ways to access Asakusa from major airports.

2-1. How to access from the airport

The most common way to reach Asakusa is by train from Narita or Haneda Airports. From either airport, you can reach Asakusa either directly or by transfer.

2-1-1. Access from Narita Airport

The most convenient way to get to Asakusa from Narita Airport is to take the Keisei Skyliner, which connects Narita Airport and Asakusa in about one hour. You can then transfer to the Keisei Oshiage Line (which changes its name to the Asakusa Line on the way to Asakusa) to reach Asakusa. The combination of comfort and speed makes it the perfect way to travel after a long flight.

2-1-2. Access from Haneda Airport

From Haneda Airport to Asakusa, it is convenient to use a combination of the Keikyu Line and the Toei Asakusa Line. Take the Keikyu Line to Shinagawa, and from there transfer to the Toei Asakusa Line directly to Asakusa Station. The trip takes about 45 minutes, making access from Haneda Airport very easy and quick.

2-2. Access from major stations

Travel to Asakusa from other parts of Tokyo is also very easy. Tokyo’s transportation network is extensive, and access to Asakusa from major stations is possible via direct lines or simple transfers. If you are coming from far away by Shinkansen, access from major stations such as Shin-Osaka is relatively easy: take the JR train to JR Ueno Station, then transfer to the Ginza Subway Line and you will be in Asakusa in no time!

2-2-1. Access from Tokyo Station

The most efficient way to get to Asakusa from Tokyo Station is to take a combination of JR and subway lines: take the JR Yamanote Line to Ueno Station, then transfer to the Ginza Subway Line to Asakusa Station. The trip takes about 30 minutes and is an especially convenient route for tourists.

2-2-2. Access from Hamamatsucho Station

To get to Asakusa from Hamamatsucho Station, take the Toei Oedo Line and the Toei Asakusa Line. Take the Toei Oedo Line to Daimon Station, then transfer to the Toei Asakusa Line to go directly to Asakusa Station. The trip takes about 25 minutes and is easy.

2-2-3. Access from Shin-Osaka Station

To reach Asakusa from Shin-Osaka Station, use the Shinkansen bullet train and subway. From Shin-Osaka Station, take the Shinkansen to Tokyo Station (approx. 2 hr. 30 min.), and from Tokyo Station take the aforementioned route (JR Yamanote Line and Ginza Subway Line) to Asakusa. Overall, you should expect approximately 3 hours to travel from Shin-Osaka to Asakusa.

3-1. Sensoji Temple: Symbol of History and Culture

Sensoji Temple is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Japan and a must-see destination for visitors to Tokyo. Its grandeur and artistry captivate visitors, and it is a symbol of a long history and culture.

3-1-1. History of Sensoji Temple

Senso-ji Temple, the oldest temple in Tokyo, was founded in 628. Originally a small Buddhist temple, it has expanded over time and today is one of the most important Buddhist sanctuaries in Tokyo. On weekends, the temple is crowded with stalls and a fun atmosphere.

3-1-2. Places to see at Sensoji Temple

The main attractions of Sensoji Temple include the five-story pagoda, the main hall, and the Kaminarimon gate. The temple grounds are also dotted with many smaller shrines and halls, each with its own unique charm. In addition, the area surrounding the temple is rich in shopping and dining spots, making it a great place to spend an entire day.

3-2. Kaminarimon: Symbol of Asakusa

Kaminarimon is the main entrance to Sensoji Temple, and its huge lanterns are a symbol of Asakusa. Kaminarimon can be passed through, and Nakamise is located behind the gate. In the morning and at night, there are no people here, so you can feel the quiet atmosphere.

3-2-1. History of Kaminarimon

Kaminarimon, officially called “Wind and Thunder God Gate,” enshrines a pair of deities, the Wind God and the Thunder God. These deities are believed to govern wind and thunder, or fertility.

3-2-2. Highlights at the Kaminarimon

The main attraction of the Kaminarimon is its huge lantern. The lanterns, which are 4 meters high and weigh approximately 700 kilograms, are beautifully lit at night, creating a spectacular sight.

3-3. Chuo-dori and Nakamise-dori: A paradise for shopping and dining

Located near Senso-ji Temple, Chuo-dori and Nakamise-dori provide visitors with numerous shopping and dining opportunities.

3-3-1. Features of Chuo-dori

Chuo-dori is Asakusa’s main street and is lined with many restaurants and cafes. Visitors can enjoy a variety of Japanese flavors as the street is home to a wide range of restaurants, from Japanese to Western cuisine. There are also kurazushi, udon, and monjayaki restaurants, so you can choose from a variety of food options!

3-3-2. Characteristics of Nakamise-dori

Nakamise Dori is a 250 meter street leading to Sensoji Temple, lined with stores selling local crafts and traditional Japanese souvenirs. There are also stores offering delicious Japanese snacks and sweets.

3-4. Sumida River and Water Bus: Viewing Asakusa from a New Perspective

Located along the Sumida River, Asakusa offers visitors a chance to enjoy the city from a new perspective by taking a water bus.

3-4-1. Characteristics of the Sumida River

The Sumida River is one of the major rivers in Tokyo. In spring, beautiful cherry blossoms bloom and in summer, Tokyo’s largest fireworks display is held. The Sumida River offers a panoramic view of Tokyo, including the Tokyo Sky Tree.

3-4-2. Water Bus Experience

The Sumida River Water Bus offers a boat trip from Asakusa to Tokyo Bay. Along the way, you can view Tokyo’s famous landmarks such as the Tokyo Sky Tree and Rainbow Bridge from the water. This water bus provides an excellent opportunity to experience Asakusa and Tokyo from a new perspective.

Summary

Asakusa is very popular among travelers as a place to experience old-world Tokyo. Its history and geographic location make Asakusa’s tourist attractions stand out from the rest. It is easily accessible from Narita and Haneda airports, as well as Tokyo and Hamamatsucho stations, and there is a direct train service from Shin-Osaka Station.

Senso-ji Temple and Kaminarimon Gate are symbols of history and culture, and their beauty is a must-see. Chuo-dori and Nakamise-dori streets are also shopping and gourmet paradises where visitors can enjoy local flavors and crafts. Water buses operate along the Sumida River, offering beautiful views of Tokyo Bay and the Tokyo Sky Tree from the water.

Asakusa’s charm lies in its diversity, a perfect blend of old-world ambience and modern conveniences. No matter how many times you visit, there is always something new to discover in Asakusa.

Q1: What are some of the tourist attractions in Asakusa?

A1: There are many tourist attractions in Asakusa. Among them, Senso-ji Temple and Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) are the most famous. Senso-ji is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Tokyo, and its history and cultural importance make it a great attraction for tourists. Kaminarimon is also a symbol of Asakusa, attracting visitors with its grandeur and beauty.

Q2: How can I get to Asakusa?

A2: Access to Asakusa is very easy. You can take a limousine bus or train directly from Narita or Haneda airports. It is also easily accessible from Tokyo Station or Hamamatsucho Station by subway or Toei bus. There is a direct train service from Shin-Osaka Station, so access from the Osaka area is also easy.

Q3: How can I enjoy shopping and dining in Asakusa?

A3: In Asakusa, you can enjoy shopping and dining at Chuo-dori and Nakamise-dori. These streets are lined with many restaurants and stores where you can enjoy local flavors and crafts. In addition, visitors can take a water bus along the Sumida River and enjoy beautiful views of Tokyo Bay and the Tokyo Sky Tree from the water.