Asakusa & Senso-ji Temple Walking Tour
Step into the heart of Tokyo with a walk through the sights, sounds and soul of traditional Japan.
Tour Details
The giant red lantern, the five-story pagoda, the smell of fresh taiyaki and incense drifting through Nakamise Street. It’s everything people imagine when they think of Japan. I’ll guide you through the temple’s rituals, share stories that connect old Japan with modern Tokyo, and make sure you feel comfortable asking questions and have a laugh along the way. Tour Itinerary 1. Kaminarimon Gate We’ll kick things off at Kaminarimon, the “Thunder Gate”, with its giant red lantern and fierce guardian statues. It’s the gateway to Sensō-ji and one of the most photographed spots in Tokyo. 2. Nakamise Street An energetic walking street packed with local snacks and handmade crafts. From crispy senbei rice crackers to sweet ningyō-yaki cakes, this street is a taste of Tokyo’s past. 3. Hōzōmon Gate Stand beneath the towering Hōzōmon, or “Treasure House Gate,” the powerful inner gate of Sensō-ji. A perfect blend of strength and beauty. 4. Omikuji: Japanese Fortune Slips Try your luck with Sensō-ji’s famously truthful omikuji. With a higher-than-usual chance of bad fortune, it’s not just about good luck - it’s a reminder that honesty and balance are part of Japanese belief. 5. Sensō-ji Temple Step inside Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple, founded in the 7th century. Explore the grand main hall and feel the energy that’s made it a spiritual heart of Tokyo for centuries. 6. Asakusa Shrine Right next door sits Asakusa Shrine, a peaceful Shinto sanctuary dedicated to the three men who founded Sensō-ji. It’s a calm moment amid the buzz and a glimpse into how Shinto and Buddhism coexist in Japan. 7. Hoppy Street Hoppy Street is a lively alley lined with old-school izakayas and street-side stalls, known for its signature “Hoppy” beer mix. It’s a nostalgic slice of Tokyo nightlife where the atmosphere is as good as the food. 8. Asakusa Rokku (6th Street) 6th Street is where the energy shifts. Once the entertainment hub of old Tokyo, it’s now a mix of street food stalls, local theaters, and hidden bars. A place where tradition meets the city’s playful side. 9. Denboin Street Step back in time to a beautifully preserved lane designed to look like Edo-period Tokyo. You’ll find craft shops, kimono boutiques, and the quieter, more nostalgic face of Asakusa. 10. Sumida River Viewing Point We’ll finish by the Sumida River. A calm spot with stunning views of Tokyo Skytree and the golden Asahi building. A perfect way to wrap up the day.