Senso-ji is Tokyo’s oldest temple, founded in 628 AD. It offers a glimpse into Japan’s traditional past. Walk through the Thunder Gate (Kaminarimon) and explore Nakamise Street, lined with stalls selling souvenirs, traditional snacks, and local crafts. Inside the temple grounds, you can participate in traditional rituals such as drawing omikuji (fortune slips) and lighting incense. Don’t miss the stunning five-story pagoda and the serene garden behind the temple. Foreign visitors appreciate the temple’s rich history and the opportunity to experience traditional Japanese culture.
When visiting Senso-ji in Asakusa
there are many delicious foods to try in the surrounding area. Nakamise Street, leading up to the temple, is lined with various stalls and shops offering traditional Japanese sweets and snacks.
Ningyo-yaki are small castella cakes filled with sweet red bean paste. You can watch these cakes being made fresh in many of the shops along Nakamise Street. Another favorite is Kaminari-okoshi, a traditional rice-based snack that is crunchy and sweet. Age-manju, deep-fried buns filled with sweet bean paste, are also a must-try, offering a delightful contrast between the crispy exterior and the soft, sweet interior.
Asakusa is also famous for its Melon Pan,
a sweet bun with a crispy, cookie-like crust. Several shops in the area are known for their freshly baked Melon Pan, which is best enjoyed warm.
Matcha soft-serve ice cream is another treat you can find around Senso-ji. The rich, creamy texture combined with the deep flavor of matcha makes it a refreshing choice, especially on a warm day.
For a more substantial meal, consider trying Okonomiyaki or Monjayaki, savory pancakes made with various ingredients. Many restaurants in Asakusa specialize in these dishes, and some offer a fun experience where you can cook your own at the table.
Tempura is another local specialty, often served as Tempura-don (tempura rice bowl). Asakusa has several long-standing tempura restaurants where you can enjoy this crispy delight.
Unagi (grilled eel) is also a popular choice, with several historic eel restaurants in the area. The eel is typically grilled with a sweet soy-based sauce and served over rice.
Enjoying these foods while strolling through the bustling streets of Asakusa or sitting down in a local restaurant can enhance your visit to Senso-ji. Additionally, some shops offer workshops where you can learn to make traditional Japanese sweets, which can be a fun and memorable experience.
When visiting Senso-ji, indulging in these local delicacies provides a rich taste of Japanese culture and cuisine.
Here are some popular souvenirs from Asakusa
Kaminari Okoshi
• A traditional Asakusa sweet with a crispy texture and sweet flavor.
Ningyo-yaki
• Soft sponge cakes filled with sweet red bean paste, often shaped like Asakusa’s famous landmarks such as the Five-storied Pagoda and Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate).
Edo Kiriko
• Traditional cut glassware with intricate designs. These items are popular as accessories and tableware.
Asakusa Candy
• Handmade colorful candies available in various flavors, making them a delightful souvenir.
Tenugui (Hand Towels)
• Practical and stylish hand towels featuring unique Asakusa designs.
Washi Paper Products
• Stationery items such as notebooks, letter sets, and envelopes made from traditional Japanese washi paper.
Gold Leaf Ice Cream
• A luxurious treat topped with gold leaf, popular for its unique appearance and taste.
Senbei (Rice Crackers)
• Various flavors and shapes of rice crackers from Asakusa’s long-established shops, offering a delightful crunchy texture.
These souvenirs can be found around Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street in Asakusa. Make sure to check them out when you visit!
