21 Best Things to Do in Asakusa: Tokyo's Traditional Gem

Asakusa, a historic neighborhood located in Tokyo, is a popular tourist destination known for its unique blend of traditional and modern cultures. The area is home to several important cultural landmarks, including the iconic Sensoji Temple and its imposing Kaminarimon Gate. 

The district of Asakusa and the Sensoji Temple are closely linked; they even share the same name in both Chinese and Japanese. The name "Asakusa" is the Japanese pronunciation, while "Senso" is the Chinese pronunciation. Both names are written using the same Chinese characters 浅草, which mean "shallow grass."

Looking for somewhere to eat in Tokyo's historical neighborhood? Check out our list of must-visit restaurants in Asakusa.

Visitors to Asakusa will be transported back in time to the Edo Period (1603–1868), with its narrow alleyways, street-side vendors selling traditional snacks like taiyaki, and the sound of clanging temple bells in the background. Whether you're a first-timer to Japan or a seasoned traveler, there is plenty to see and do in Asakusa. Here is our list of the top things to do in Asakusa, with insider tips and hidden gems to make your trip unforgettable.

This list includes a variety of activities and experiences, from visiting historical and cultural sites to trying traditional foods and participating in traditional activities. With our insider tips, you'll be sure to make the most of your trip to Asakusa and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Hommage earned its two Michelin Stars by ensuring that its French-Japanese fusion cuisine embraced four things: simplicity, minimalism, accuracy and gratitude, the latter of which takes the spotlight in the restaurant’s own name; “hommage” means “gratitude” in French.

Head chef Arai Noboru’s kitchen is the pinnacle of fusion cuisine creation, only allowing the finest, freshest ingredients to be served to its expectant diners. Each dish is kept as simple as possible, giving you space to appreciate each precise detail, savoring every mouthful of the carefully selected ingredients and seasonings.

Start your visit here. The Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center is a great place to learn about the local history and culture of Asakusa. You can find information about the local sights, cultural events, and historical crafts. Their free walking tours are a great way to see the area on foot! Stop by the center for a map, free Wi-Fi, and great views of the city.

Sensoji is the oldest and most famous temple in Tokyo, located in the heart of Asakusa and at the top of every tourist's list of things to do in Asakusa. This iconic temple is a must-visit for any first-timer to Asakusa, as it offers a glimpse into age-old Japanese culture and religion. Be sure to visit the temple early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds.

Pro tip: Head to Asakusa Shrine instead. It is less crowded than the Sensoji temple, making it a great place to experience traditional Japanese culture without the crowds.

Nakamise is a lively shopping street lined with long-established shops and food stalls. You can find everything from conventional Japanese souvenirs and crafts to delicious street food here. Be sure to bring cash, as some of the smaller shops may not accept card payments

The Sumida River offers stunning views of the city skyline and is a popular spot for a leisurely walk or bike tour. There is also a water bus service that operates along the Sumida River, offering passengers a scenic view of the city and its landmarks, including the Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower. It is a regular passenger service and operates throughout the day.

Pro tip: Book a seat on the left side of the boat for the best views of the Tokyo Skytree. 

Learn to make standard Japanese dishes with local chefs, such as sushi, tempura, and miso soup. How about this make-your-own nigiri and maki roll sushi class? With a few new skills under your belt, you'll be taking home more than fridge magnets!

Pro tip: For a true cultural experience, try to find a class that includes a visit to the local markets.

Check out this curated selection of cooking classes in Tokyo for more options.

Kappabashi Kitchen Town is a shopping street specializing in high-quality kitchen gadgets and cookware. Here, you can find everything from old-fashioned Japanese kitchen knives to quirky and fun kitchen gadgets. Why not take a cooking class and bring some new recipes back home with you? We've even got a list of shops worth stopping by if you're in the market for tableware and kitchenware.

Pro tip: To get the most out of your visit, consider starting early in the morning when the shops first open. This way, you can avoid crowds and have the best selection of goods. 

A Japanese tea ceremony is a must-do for any first-timer to Asakusa. These ceremonies are typically performed in a traditional tea house and offer a glimpse into timeless Japanese culture and etiquette.

Pro tip: Book a tea ceremony with an English-speaking host for a more immersive and educational experience. Also, wear pants so that you can sit comfortably and easily.

Edo-Shitamachi Traditional Crafts Hall is a museum dedicated to showcasing the traditional arts and crafts of Asakusa. Visitors can learn about the history and techniques behind these crafts, as well as participate in workshops to create their own souvenirs. Some of the available workshops include woodblock printing, origami, and calligraphy.

Enjoy panoramic views of the city from Tokyo Skytree. It offers a great perspective and is a recommended place to take photos. Do it for the ‘Gram! Make sure to check if any special exhibitions or events are happening at the tower, as they often offer an amazing experience (and possible discounts!).

It can be tricky to find a good place to refuel. Check out our guide on where to eat in and around Tokyo Skytree.

In Asakusa, several shops offer kimono rental services for tourists to experience the traditional Japanese culture. These shops usually offer a wide range of kimono styles, from conventional to modern, as well as accessories such as obi (sash) and hair ornaments. Some shops also offer hair styling and makeup services, so visitors can complete the full look.

The Sumida Hokusai Museum, located in the Sumida district, is dedicated to the famous Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai. Visitors can see some of his most famous pieces, such as The Wave and other woodblock prints, and learn about his life and legacy. Consider visiting the museum on a weekday, as weekends can be very busy. Take your time exploring the exhibits, and don’t be afraid to ask the staff questions.

Rokku Broadway is a popular street in Asakusa that is known for its street performers, who put on a variety of shows and musical acts in the evenings and on weekends. You can expect to see a variety of street performances ranging from Japanese art forms like taiko drumming, comedic skits, acrobatics, magic tricks, and more. Feel free to tip here!

Traditional mochi and fluffy melon pan are just the start of the amazing street food available in Asakusa! But if you'd like a chance to sit and relax, Asakusa is also home to many traditional cafes and tea houses. You can enjoy desserts like anmitsu, or kakigori (shaved ice) on hot summer days.

Food tours are a great way to experience the local cuisine of Asakusa. This Sensoji and Asakusa food tour is family-friendly. Yay for having the kids along, but boo for having to share your food. If you're a foodie, you should try some of the local street food such as takoyaki (octopus balls), yakisoba (stir-fried noodles), the Asakusa-specialty monjayaki (savory pancake), and taiyaki.

There are even good options for vegetarians and vegans! Join a vegan food tour in Asakusa to try the best plant-based goodies in the neighborhood.

See geisha performances in the Asakusa Geisha District. Make your memoirs of a geisha, hehe. These performances are a rare and fascinating glimpse into an enduring Japanese cultural heritage.

Pro tip: Try to attend a performance in the evening, as the atmosphere is typically more historical then.

What to do in Asakusa at night? Enjoy a river cruise on a yakatabune boat. The boat is decorated in a Japanese style and often features tatami mats, low tables, and a noren curtain. These boats typically offer delicious Japanese cuisine and scenic views of the city skyline. The nighttime lights add a different and beautiful dimension to the views of Tokyo's skyline.

Book your cruise in advance to ensure a spot, as these boats are popular and can sell out quickly.

Sign up for one of the many classes in the area, such as sake brewing or candy-making. The Asakusa Sake Brewery lets you learn about the process and even sample some of its products. Join one of the plastic-food model classes offered by sweet shops in the area. Take home a special souvenir from your trip to Asakusa with a plastic model replica of something you ate! Why not learn to make something edible, like in this candy sculpting class?

Pro tip: Be sure to book your class in advance, as some classes fill up quickly.

Experience Japanese bar culture and try some of the local drinks and snacks. Try Hoppy beer, a leftover brew from World War 2, on Hoppy street to start your night.

Pro tip: If you’re not familiar with the local bar culture, consider asking for recommendations from locals or your hotel staff. Or join a guided bar-hopping tour. If you see us behind you, say nothing.

Asakusa is home to several Japanese theaters, such as the Asakusa Engei Hall and the Asakusa Public Hall. These theaters host performances such as rakugo (traditional Japanese comic storytelling), bunraku (Japanese puppet theater), and kabuki (a classical Japanese dance-drama). The performances offer a look into the history and traditions of Japan. Put this at the top of your things-to-do-in-Asakusa list!

Pro tip: Some of these may be conducted in Japanese only but don’t let that stop you! Check the schedule in advance to find multilingual options.

You'd be kicking yourself if you came all the way to Japan and didn't get to experience sumo wrestling, right? Well, join this sumo wrestling and lunch experience in Asakusa! 

You'll get to enjoy the sumo-approved delights of chanko nabe (served alongside inari sushi and fried chicken) while watching two former wrestlers in action. Then, you'll even get to step into the ring for yourself, donning an inflatable sumo suit or a real mawashi loincloth for a head-to-head battle with the pros.

Note: Vegetarian and vegan options are available upon request. Please leave a note for your host at the time of booking this experience.

Find out more: Chanko Nabe in Tokyo: the 5 Best Places For Sumo Wrestler Cuisine

Asakusa is known for its historic Senso-ji Temple, bustling Nakamise shopping street, and traditional atmosphere that transports you back in time.

Some of the best things to do in Asakusa include visiting Senso-ji Temple, taking a rickshaw ride around the area, and trying traditional Japanese street food. Here's a list of what yummy snacks you can find around Asakusa:

• Ningyo-yaki
• Senbei
• Anmitsu
• Okonomiyaki
• Various mochi treats
• ... and more!

Yes, Asakusa is home to numerous traditional Japanese restaurants serving up authentic dishes like tempura, sushi, and soba noodles for you to enjoy.

Absolutely! Many shops in Asakusa offer kimono rental services, allowing you to dress up in traditional attire and stroll through the streets like a true local for the day.

Yes, Asakusa is a fantastic place to buy souvenirs, with Nakamise shopping street offering a wide variety of traditional items such as fans, chopsticks, and Japanese sweets to bring back home.

Yes, there are plenty of guided tours available in Asakusa that can help you navigate the area, learn about its history, and make the most of your visit to this vibrant part of Tokyo. You can book the following tours on byFood:

• Senso-ji and Asakusa Food Tour
• Tsukiji and Asakusa Cultural Walking Tour
• Asakusa Evening Walking Tour

For first-time visitors especially, spending a day in Asakusa and immersing yourself in the culture is a must. Or, if it's your second time in Japan and you want to explore this cultural hub more in-depth, then consider making it your home base. Travelers can find a variety of accommodation types on JAPANiCAN. Whether you're hitting Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto only or venturing out to areas less traveled by.