Asakusa Shrine Tokyo
A historic Shinto shrine and adjacent Buddhist temple complex, offering a vibrant cultural experience with traditional markets and festivals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience tranquility before crowds.
Asakusa Shrine Tokyo
Best Time
Experience tranquility before crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Shinto shrine and adjacent Buddhist temple complex, offering a vibrant cultural experience with traditional markets and festivals.
"Asakusa offers a captivating blend of history, spirituality, and delicious street food, making it a must-visit."
Explore beyond Nakamise-dori
Discover charming side streets with unique shops and eateries.
Try local street food
Sample delicious snacks like melon pan and eel onigiri.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Asakusa Shrine
A vibrant Shinto shrine, a spiritual heart of Asakusa, offering a glimpse into traditional Japanese religious practices.
Senso-ji Temple
Tokyo's oldest temple, a magnificent Buddhist site with a rich history and iconic Kaminarimon Gate.
Nakamise-dori Street
A bustling market street leading to Senso-ji, lined with traditional snacks, souvenirs, and crafts.
Imado Shrine
Known as the 'Cat Shrine,' this hidden gem is the birthplace of Maneki-neko lucky cats and a matchmaking spot.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Kimono Rental Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Explore beyond Nakamise-dori
Discover charming side streets with unique shops and eateries. +1
Try local street food
Sample delicious snacks like melon pan and eel onigiri. +2
Visit Imado Shrine
Seek good fortune at the 'Cat Shrine,' the origin of Maneki-neko.
Consider a river cruise
Enjoy scenic views from the Sumida River to Hamarikyu Gardens.
Tips
from all over the internet
Explore beyond Nakamise-dori
Discover charming side streets with unique shops and eateries. +1
Try local street food
Sample delicious snacks like melon pan and eel onigiri. +2
Visit Imado Shrine
Seek good fortune at the 'Cat Shrine,' the origin of Maneki-neko.
Consider a river cruise
Enjoy scenic views from the Sumida River to Hamarikyu Gardens.
Kimono rental caution
Compare prices and book in advance to avoid overpaying.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Asakusa Shrine and its surrounding area are a beloved cultural hub, praised for its historical significance, vibrant atmosphere, and delicious street food. Visitors appreciate the spiritual ambiance of the shrine and temple, the lively Nakamise-dori market, and the unique charm of hidden spots like Imado Shrine. Some find the crowds overwhelming during peak hours, and kimono rental prices can be a point of contention.
""The shrine of Three Gods";- the Asakusa shrine is one of the most famous Shinto Shrine Tokyo City. It is with a very peaceful pious atmosphere as common to Japanese culture throughout. It is the only two buildings said to be survived World War II in this area of Asakusa District. It is almost four centuries old. During our visit in May, the area was having drizzling, immediately after the famous festival here of three days called Sanja Masturi. The old buildings are with amazing architecture with more works in wood. It attracts millions of visitors each year. The Tokyos's oldest temple Senso-ji is situated nearby."
BABU O VARGHESE
"Sensō-ji in Asakusa is the most famous and iconic temple in Tokyo, and absolutely worth a visit. The temple grounds are impressive, with the massive Thunder Gate and its giant red lantern welcoming you at the entrance. Walking through the bustling Nakamise Street, lined with traditional shops and food stalls, is an experience in itself.
The main hall and the five-story pagoda are breathtaking, and the entire area perfectly combines history, culture, and vibrant local life. Whether during the day or illuminated at night, Sensō-ji is a true highlight of Tokyo and a must-see for every visitor."
Hüseyin Ates
"I was there at 16 may the festival day, Just witnessed the incredible Sanja Matsuri here, what an explosion of tradition and energy! The mikoshi parades, music, and festival spirit were unforgettable. So vibrant Tokyo truly knows how to celebrate history with heart."
Mary Feiz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Shibuya, take the JR Yamanote Line to Kanda Station, then transfer to the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line to Asakusa Station. Alternatively, the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line from Shibuya to Otemachi, then transfer to the Toei Asakusa Line to Asakusa Station.
Yes, Asakusa Shrine is easily accessible via Asakusa Station, served by the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Toei Asakusa Line, and Tobu Skytree Line.
From Shinjuku, take the JR Chuo Line to Kanda Station, then transfer to the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line to Asakusa Station. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes.
While JR lines don't directly serve Asakusa Station, the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and Toei Asakusa Line provide convenient direct access from many major hubs like Shibuya and Shinjuku.
Ueno Park is a few stations away from Asakusa. While technically walkable, it's a significant distance. Taking the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line from Ueno Station to Asakusa Station is much more efficient.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Asakusa Shrine and Senso-ji Temple grounds are free to enter. There are no admission fees for general access.
The temple grounds and shrine are generally open 24 hours, but the main buildings and shops on Nakamise-dori have specific hours, typically from around 9 AM to 5 PM or 6 PM.
Photography is generally permitted within the shrine and temple grounds for personal use. Commercial photography may require special permits.
Most shops on Nakamise-dori street typically close around 5 PM or 6 PM, though some may stay open slightly later.
Yes, the most famous is the Sanja Matsuri, one of Tokyo's largest and wildest festivals, held in May. Tori no Ichi festivals also occur in November.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the iconic Kaminarimon Gate, the main hall of Senso-ji Temple, the vibrant Nakamise-dori shopping street, and the serene Asakusa Shrine itself. Imado Shrine is a unique 'Cat Shrine' worth seeking out.
Asakusa offers a wide array of street food, including melon pan, age manju, senbei (rice crackers), and eel onigiri. You can also find traditional restaurants serving ramen, tempura, and soba. +2
Many visitors enjoy the experience of renting a kimono for photos. However, compare prices and book in advance to ensure a good deal. +3
Walking is the best way to experience Asakusa. Explore Nakamise-dori and the surrounding streets. Consider a Sumida River cruise for a different perspective. +1
Yes, explore Kappabashi Kitchen Town for cookware, Mokuhankan for woodblock prints, and Yagenbori for shichimi togarashi (seven-spice blend). +1
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the iconic Kaminarimon Gate, the vibrant Nakamise-dori street with its stalls, the main temple hall, and the serene Asakusa Shrine. Imado Shrine with its Maneki-neko cats is also a unique photo opportunity.
Early morning, before 9 AM, offers the best light and fewest crowds for unobstructed photos. Evenings also provide a beautiful ambiance with the temple illuminated.
During Sanja Matsuri in May, the streets are filled with portable shrines (mikoshi) and vibrant processions, offering dynamic photo opportunities.
While many people rent kimonos, always be respectful and ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.
Imado Shrine with its abundance of Maneki-neko cats offers a quirky and memorable photo opportunity. The Hikan Inari Shrine, with its small fox figurines, is also a charming, often overlooked spot.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a Sumida River cruise for a relaxing and scenic outing that offers a different view of Tokyo.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Exploring Nakamise-dori offers a chance to soak in the atmosphere and sample affordable street food, which is significantly cheaper than sit-down restaurants. Public transportation to Asakusa is also relatively inexpensive, with various subway lines serving the area.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For unique shots, seek out Imado Shrine with its multitude of Maneki-neko cats, or the serene Hikan Inari Shrine with its fox figurines.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Asakusa's Culinary Delights
Beyond the immediate temple vicinity, explore side streets for hidden culinary gems. Hoppi Street offers a more traditional izakaya experience with old-fashioned pubs. For a highly-rated ramen, Men Mitsui is a local favorite. Even a small shop off the side of Senso-ji temple selling sweet glazed fried sweet potato is noted as a memorable treat.
For those seeking a unique dining experience, consider Gonpachi Asakusa, an izakaya known for its lively atmosphere. A more refined culinary experience can be found at La Fleur de Sarrasin, a crepe restaurant located between Senso-ji and Kappabashi street, praised for its delicious offerings.
The Kimono Experience in Asakusa
While the experience is visually appealing, travelers advise comparing prices and booking in advance to avoid overpaying, as some areas can be tourist traps. Apps like Kluke are mentioned as useful tools for booking kimono rentals.
It's important to be aware of potential scams or inflated prices, especially in heavily touristed areas. Researching different rental shops and their offerings beforehand can help ensure a positive and cost-effective experience.
Beyond the Main Attractions: Hidden Gems
+1Another often overlooked gem is the Hikan Inari Shrine, located right next to Asakusa Shrine. Though small, it features charming fox figurines, a common motif in Inari shrines, and is easily missed by those focused on the larger temples.
Kappabashi Kitchen Town is a must for anyone interested in Japanese culinary tools and tableware. This street is dedicated to shops selling everything from knives and pottery to realistic plastic food samples, offering a unique shopping experience.
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