Asakusa: Sensō-ji and old Tokyo's east side
Asakusa is an old Tokyo district built around Sensō-ji temple and the shop-lined Nakamise street that leads to it.
Asakusa is a district in Taito ward on the east side of Tokyo, Japan. Its center is Sensō-ji, one of the city's oldest temples, reached through the Kaminarimon gate and the Nakamise shopping street. The area has long been part of shitamachi, the low city of artisans and merchants along the Sumida River. Stalls on Nakamise sell snacks and souvenirs, and the streets around the temple hold older shops and restaurants.
Asakusa suits a first trip to Tokyo and a half day or a full day in the city. Go early in the morning, when the grounds are less crowded. Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons for walking, since summer heat and humidity make the open streets tiring. Pair the visit with a walk along the Sumida River or a trip to other parts of the city.
Places in Asakusa
Right now in Asakusa
Local time, today's weather and the exchange rate, refreshed through the day.
13
- Feels like
- 12°
- Humidity
- 83%
- Wind
- 5 km/h
- Chance of rain
- 2%
Tokyo
07:04 AM
Tuesday, November 3
- Today19°12°2%Tuesday: Cloudy. High 19°, Low 12°. Chance of rain 2%.
- Wed15°13°27%Wednesday: Rain. High 15°, Low 13°. Chance of rain 27%.
- Thu19°13°93%Thursday: Rain. High 19°, Low 13°. Chance of rain 93%.
- Fri21°14°27%Friday: Cloudy. High 21°, Low 14°. Chance of rain 27%.
- Sat17°11°25%Saturday: Cloudy. High 17°, Low 11°. Chance of rain 25%.
- Sun15°9°8%Sunday: Cloudy. High 15°, Low 9°. Chance of rain 8%.
Updated 03:15 AM local time · Powered by WeatherAPI.com · Weather data by Open-Meteo.com
Money
Mid-market rate1 USD = 157.5 JPY
Rates from Nov 2, 2026 · Rates By Exchange Rate API
Questions people ask
Is Asakusa worth visiting?
Yes, for Sensō-ji and the old-Tokyo feel of the streets around it. Go early or after dark; between 10am and 4pm the Nakamise arcade is packed.
How long do you need in Asakusa?
A morning covers Sensō-ji, Nakamise and a riverside walk. Add the afternoon if you want to continue to Kuramae's workshops or Skytree.
Do you need a ticket for Sensō-ji?
No. The temple grounds and main hall are free to enter. Plan around the early morning for the quietest visit.
Is Asakusa a good place to stay in Tokyo?
Yes, if you want quiet mornings, lower prices than Shinjuku or Shibuya and a direct train to both airports. Skip it if you want nightlife outside your door.
When is the best time to visit Sensō-ji?
Before 8am for calm, or after dark when the main buildings are lit and the crowds are gone. Sanja Matsuri in May is a lively exception, with large crowds.