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Asakusa
 The
charms of Asakusa haven't changed since the Edo period, when it
functioned as the city's gastronomic,artistic, and sensual playground.
The traditional focus is Sensoji Temple, reached by walking the
length of a colorful street of festive stalls called Nakamise. ln
a covered shopping street near the temple is the Traditional Crafts
Museum, a small gallery operated by Taito Ward Office to showcase
the excellent crafts typical of this district of Tokyo. Asakusa
is the setting for many traditional festivals and seasonal fairs
including the annual Sanja Matsuriin May,one of Tokyo's most vibrant
events. Asakusa is also a town on the water, with ferries in active
service and avenues of cherry trees lining the riverbanks. On the
other side of the Sumida River is a building with a mysterious golden
object on top. Designed by French architect Philippe Starck and
completed in 1989, this uniquely shaped building is part of Asahi
Breweries' head office complex and includes a beerhall. Asakusa
is the main gateway to Nikko,famous for the magnificent Toshogu
Shrine and Kegon Falls. The trip takes two hours on a Tobu Railways
train.
Nakamise Map
3-B2
Between the famous red lantern at Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) and
the main hall of Sensoji Temple is a path lined with colorful shops
selling souvenirs that include such specialty treats and sweets
as Kaminari-okoshi and Ningyo-yaki.
Sensoji
Temple Map 3-AB1
 Also
known as Asakusa Kannon, Sensoji is the oldest and most impressive
temple in Tokyo. The main hall was originally built in 645 to house
a tiny golden statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, that had been
caught by two brothers fishing in the Sumida River. The temple grounds
swarm with people buying fortunes, praying, sightseeing, and shopping.
Many come for the curative powers of incense billowing from the
bronze urn front of the main hall. The colorful back streets of
this area offer a glimpse of old Japan. Artisans, sushi and eel
shops, and the general hustle and bustle create an atmosphere to
savour.
Sumida River Cruise
Map 3-B2
lt takes a water bus from Asakusa about 40 min to cruise down the
Sumida River to Hama-rikyu Garden (see section on Ginza),
and another 10min to reach Hinode Pier. Embark at Azumabashi Bridge
near subway Asakusa Stn.One or two boats per hour depart 9:50-19:00.
The fare to Hama-rikyu is 620yen plus 300yen admission to the garden;
to Hinode Pier, 660yen. To go the other way, embark at Hinode Pier
or at Hama-rikyu. Hinode Pier is an 8 min walk from JR Hamamatsucho
Stn.
Kappabashi Street
Map 1-C1
A street full of wax restaurant ware, and food samples, kitchenware.
The wax models you see outside most restuarants can be bought here
cheaply. Makes great souvenirs!
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