ASAKUSA Asakusa is in eastern edge of Tokyo, former commercial center. Now it attracts many tourists due to Sensoji Temple, Nakamise and other shopping street which are old-fashioned but interesting 'Shitamachi' atmosphere. Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) is entrance of Sensoji Temple, the symbol of Asakusa. From Kaminarimon to Sensoji main temple, there are shopping street called Nakamise, always packed with tourists. Sensoji temple Smoke of joss stick (Senko) grows dense before the temple. Asakusa has unique atmosphere, somewhat similar to south-east Asian city, rather different from other parts of modern Tokyo. In this part, there are cheap and old food stands, and some eat on the tables set in road. There remains many traditional hand-made manufacturing industry around Asakusa. This shop sells Taiko, old Japanese style drum. Unique Asahi beer building locates along Sumida River, resembling fire and beer glass, the new symbol of Asakusa. BACK HOME