Asakusa

The charms of Asakusa haven't changed since the Edo period, when it functioned as the city's gastronomic,artistic, and sensual playground. The traditional focus is Sensoji Temple, reached by walking the length of a colorful street of festive stalls called Nakamise. ln a covered shopping street near the temple is the Traditional Crafts Museum, a small gallery operated by Taito Ward Office to showcase the excellent crafts typical of this district of Tokyo. Asakusa is the setting for many traditional festivals and seasonal fairs including the annual Sanja Matsuriin May,one of Tokyo's most vibrant events. Asakusa is also a town on the water, with ferries in active service and avenues of cherry trees lining the riverbanks. On the other side of the Sumida River is a building with a mysterious golden object on top. Designed by French architect Philippe Starck and completed in 1989, this uniquely shaped building is part of Asahi Breweries' head office complex and includes a beerhall. Asakusa is the main gateway to Nikko,famous for the magnificent Toshogu Shrine and Kegon Falls. The trip takes two hours on a Tobu Railways train.

Nakamise Map 3-B2
Between the famous red lantern at Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) and the main hall of Sensoji Temple is a path lined with colorful shops selling souvenirs that include such specialty treats and sweets as Kaminari-okoshi and Ningyo-yaki.

Sensoji Temple Map 3-AB1
Also known as Asakusa Kannon, Sensoji is the oldest and most impressive temple in Tokyo. The main hall was originally built in 645 to house a tiny golden statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, that had been caught by two brothers fishing in the Sumida River. The temple grounds swarm with people buying fortunes, praying, sightseeing, and shopping. Many come for the curative powers of incense billowing from the bronze urn front of the main hall. The colorful back streets of this area offer a glimpse of old Japan. Artisans, sushi and eel shops, and the general hustle and bustle create an atmosphere to savour.

Sumida River Cruise Map 3-B2
lt takes a water bus from Asakusa about 40 min to cruise down the Sumida River to Hama-rikyu Garden (see section on Ginza), and another 10min to reach Hinode Pier. Embark at Azumabashi Bridge near subway Asakusa Stn.One or two boats per hour depart 9:50-19:00. The fare to Hama-rikyu is 620yen plus 300yen admission to the garden; to Hinode Pier, 660yen. To go the other way, embark at Hinode Pier or at Hama-rikyu. Hinode Pier is an 8 min walk from JR Hamamatsucho Stn.

Kappabashi Street Map 1-C1
A street full of wax restaurant ware, and food samples, kitchenware. The wax models you see outside most restuarants can be bought here cheaply. Makes great souvenirs!