Best Things to Do in Asakusa: A Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors

2025年12月23日

Asakusa is one of the most iconic neighborhoods in Tokyo for first-time visitors.
Centered around Senso-ji Temple, it offers traditional streets, local food, and classic “Japan” scenery in one walkable area.

If you are unsure where to start your Tokyo trip, Asakusa is one of the safest choices.
This guide highlights the best things to do in Asakusa from a local Japanese perspective.

Why Asakusa Is So Popular with International Visitors

You Can Experience “Classic Japan” in One Place

In Asakusa, famous sights like Kaminarimon Gate, Senso-ji Temple, and Nakamise Shopping Street are all close together.
Just walking around the area can make you feel, “Yes, I’m really in Japan.”

It’s Easy to Explore

Most highlights are within walking distance
Public transportation is convenient
Even first-time visitors can navigate easily

Must-Do Things in Asakusa

Visit Senso-ji Temple

Senso-ji is one of Tokyo’s most famous temples and a great introduction to traditional Japan.
It is visitor-friendly, and many travelers enjoy trying omikuji (fortune slips) after praying.

Take Photos at Kaminarimon Gate

Kaminarimon is one of the top photo spots in Tokyo.
It gets very crowded during the day, so visiting early in the morning is the best way to take better photos.

Walk Through Nakamise Shopping Street

Nakamise is a classic street filled with traditional snacks and souvenir shops.
It’s one of the most enjoyable parts of the Asakusa experience.

Near the entrance to Senso-ji, there is also a famous manju shop that often has a long line.
It’s a well-known Asakusa “must-try” snack if you have extra time.

(Coming soon)

Food to Try in Asakusa

Classic Street Snacks

Ningyo-yaki (small sponge cakes, often with sweet filling)
Matcha sweets
Melon bread

These snacks are easy to enjoy while walking and exploring the neighborhood.

Enjoy Traditional Japanese Meals

Asakusa also has many long-running local restaurants.
If you want a proper sit-down meal, these are great choices:

Tempura
Soba noodles
Unagi (eel)

Enjoy Local Drinks: The Old-Style Asakusa Drinking Streets

A Local Drinking Area Near Senso-ji

Close to Senso-ji, there is a small area with a very different atmosphere from the daytime sightseeing streets.
It’s an old-style downtown drinking area where local people casually stop for drinks.

Yes, You Can Drink in the Daytime (Asakusa-Style)

This is a very “Asakusa” kind of experience:

Many places open early
Relaxed, casual atmosphere
Easy to enter even if you are alone

Besides beer and sake, you may also see locals enjoying Hoppy, a classic Tokyo-style drink culture that is especially famous in this part of the city.

A Great Way to End Your Asakusa Day

If you visit in the late afternoon or evening, you can see a calmer, more local side of Asakusa.
It’s a great final stop after temples and sightseeing.

Best Time to Visit Asakusa

Recommended Time of Day

Morning (8–10 AM): less crowded, better for photos
Midday: busiest time
Late afternoon / evening: more relaxed atmosphere

Seasonal Notes

Spring: cherry blossoms at Sumida Park
Summer: local events around the temple area
Autumn & winter: often easier for sightseeing

Easy Nearby Spots from Asakusa

Sumida River & Sumida Park

This is a great place for a walk.
On a clear day, you can enjoy views of Tokyo Skytree and a quieter, scenic side of Tokyo.

Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree is very close to Asakusa by foot or a short train ride.
Many visitors enjoy pairing Asakusa and Skytree on the same day.

(Coming soon)

Important Tips for First-Time Visitors

Asakusa is extremely crowded from around 10 AM to 3 PM
Be respectful with photos inside temple areas
Try not to eat while walking in crowded places—use designated areas when possible

Half-Day Asakusa Itinerary (Simple Plan)

Morning: Kaminarimon → Nakamise → Senso-ji
Lunch: Tempura or other local Japanese meal
Afternoon: Sumida River walk → Tokyo Skytree
Evening (optional): local drinks near Senso-ji

Final Thoughts

Asakusa is one of the best places in Tokyo to experience traditional Japan in a short time.
If this is your first Tokyo trip, starting in Asakusa is an easy way to enjoy history, culture, food, and local atmosphere all at once.

-Asakusa, Japan Travel Guide, Tokyo
-Asakusa Drinking Area, Asakusa Food, Asakusa Sightseeing, Asakusa Travel, First Time in Tokyo, Kaminarimon, Nakamise Street, Senso-ji Temple, Things to Do in Asakusa, Traditional Tokyo

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