Asakusa

Some 30 minutes' train ride from Shinjuku station, the Asakusa district surrounds Sensoji Temple, Tokyo's oldest and largest Buddhist temple. Long known as a bustling home of the common people, this town brings to life the mood and flavor of Japan in days gone by. Built at the beginning of the 7^th century, Sensoji features stunning ceiling paintings in its Main Hall, gates of varying and gracious design, and a five story pagoda. Especially famous is the "Kaminari Mon" (literally, "Thunder Gate"), decorated with a huge paper lantern more than 3m in diameter and 4m tall. There, visit shop after shop filled with traditional craftworks -folding fans, combs, Japanese hairpins - all at reasonable prices, as well as kimonos and scrolls. A wonderful place to search foods such as steamed unagi, tempura, and Japanese sweets. Rickshaws driven by energetic young men wearing kimono are available for trips around the town: a means of transportation that still enjoys popularity among travelers.
About 10 minutes' walk from Nakamise Avenue, along a street of utensil stores known as Kappabashi, Japanese, Western, and Chinese kitchen implements are sold, and some stores specialize in plastic models of foods for display. To learn more about Asakusa and what to see and do there, visit the front desk or Keio Plaza Guest Relations and let our staff help you plan your visit.