Asakusa Attractions

History of Asakusa

Asakusa has a very long history dating back to the Edo period. Below is a brief description of some of the major historical events and developments in Asakusa.

Establishment of the Senso-ji Temple (628): Senso-ji Temple is at the center of Asakusa’s history. According to legend, Senso-ji was founded in 628 by Sanzo, a Buddhist priest who came to Japan in 628. This makes Senso-ji the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan.

Nakamise Street (18th century): Nakamise Street, which runs from the Sensoji temple grounds to the Kaminarimon Gate, was established in the mid-Edo period (18th century). It became a bustling area with many shops and food stalls, attracting many worshippers and tourists.

Construction of Kaminarimon (rebuilt in 941) Kaminarimon was originally built in 941, but was later rebuilt many times due to fire and other reasons. The current Kaminarimon was rebuilt in 1960 and features large lanterns and a Niomon gate.

Edo period development: During the Edo period (1603-1867), Asakusa, located in the eastern part of Edo, developed as a place where Edo citizens came to play. In particular, the area around Nakamise-dori Avenue was lined with theaters and kabuki-za theaters and became a bustling entertainment district.

Tokyo’s development and air raids (early to mid 20th century) Since the Meiji era, Asakusa has made history as the center of Tokyo gradually shifted. However, many buildings were destroyed by fire during the air raids on Tokyo during World War II, and reconstruction continued after the war.

Construction of the Tokyo Sky Tree (2012): Asakusa’s recent history includes the construction of the Tokyo Sky Tree, which was completed in 2012 and has become a new landmark, further enhancing Asakusa as a tourist destination.

Asakusa is an area with historic temples, Nakamise Street, and a sense of harmony between traditional culture and modernity.

What you can do in Asakusa

Asakusa is a historic area in Taito Ward, Tokyo, where visitors can enjoy many tourist attractions and traditional Japanese culture. The following are some of Asakusa’s attractions.

Nakamise Street and Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate): Nakamise Street is one of Asakusa’s most popular tourist destinations, lined with traditional shops and souvenir stores, and Kaminarimon is the large gate that marks its entrance. Walking along Nakamise-dori, you can feel the traditional Japanese atmosphere.

Senso-ji: Senso-ji Temple, one of the oldest temples in Japan, is located at the end of Nakamise-dori. It is one of the oldest temples in Japan, and its solemn atmosphere and five-story pagoda give visitors a sense of history. The temple is especially impressive as it stretches from the Kaminarimon gate down Nakamise-dori.

TOKYO SKYTREE: Located near Asakusa, Tokyo Sky Tree is the tallest radio tower in Japan and offers a panoramic view of Tokyo from its observation deck. You can also enjoy great views from Asakusa.

Traditional culture and entertainment: Asakusa also offers traditional performing arts and culture. For example, visitors can enjoy the atmosphere of a traditional amusement park at Asakusa Hanayashiki, or traditional performing arts such as rakugo and kabuki at Asakusa Engei Hall.

Delicious dining: There are many restaurants in Asakusa where you can enjoy delicious meals. In particular, the Kaminarimon area and Nakamise Street are home to traditional Japanese cuisine and food stalls popular with tourists.

Asakusa retains the atmosphere of good old Japan and is a popular tourist destination. It is an area that combines history, culture and delicious food in one place and is well worth a visit.