If you’re wondering what to do in Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s must-visit districts, this guide is for you. With its traditional Japanese atmosphere and historic landmarks, it’s ideal to spend at least a day exploring the neighborhood. So whether you’re already in Tokyo or planning a visit, set aside a full day in Asakusa to experience its unique blend of old-world charm and modern infrastructure.

Here are the top things to do in Asakusa if you’re planning a one-day visit.

Start Your Day at Senso-ji Temple

One of the best things to do in Asakusa is to start your day by passing through the iconic Kaminarimon Gate to reach Senso-ji, the oldest temple in Tokyo.There’s also a five-story pagoda within the temple grounds that adds timeless beauty to the whole place. It’s definitely an attraction you shouldn’t miss, not just in Asakusa but in all of Tokyo.

Because it’s such a well-known landmark, it’s usually crowded with tourists. We visited in the afternoon, and it was packed with people. So we ended up returning in the evening when the crowds had eased up so we could take some good photos. That said, the temple and the pagoda are just as beautiful at night. 

Discover Asakusa on a traditional Rickshaw Tour through KKDay

Explore Nakamise Shopping Street

Make your way through Nakamise Street and discover the vibrant shopping lane leading to the temple. You can feast your eyes on various Japanese souvenirs or delight your taste buds with some local treats. Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, simply walking along the shopping street as you make your way to Senso-ji is already an attraction in and of itself.

But expect the shopping street to also be crowded, especially during peak times. It’s still a delightful experience, particularly if you’re visiting for the first time. The rows of stalls also bring a classic appeal with their traditional designs and colorful displays.

Opening hours: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm (Depends on shops)

Indulge in Local Sweets

What better way to get a taste of Japan than by trying local sweets such as mochi, dango, and taiyaki? There are plenty of shops around Asakusa that sell these Japanese treats. One specialty worth trying is ichigo daifuku — a type of mochi with a whole strawberry inside.

I may be a little biased here since these three are my favorite Japanese sweets, but try them yourself the next time you visit Asakusa or anywhere in Japan for that matter. These traditional delicacies also come in different flavors, so there’s always something new to try. 

Walk along the Sumida River

Take a relaxing stroll along the Sumida River Promenade and enjoy one of the most scenic spots in Asakusa. Aside from unwinding by the Sumida River, you’ll get a great view of Tokyo Skytree, the famous “golden poop,” and tour boats passing along the river. 

If you want to hop on one of these boats yourself, check out the water bus sailing along the Sumida River with views of the Tokyo Skytree on KKday.

When we visited in spring, the cherry blossoms were in full bloom, making the whole experience unforgettable. Some people were enjoying picnics, while others were performing or simply spending quality time with family and friends.

Head to the Tokyo Skytree

Another idea for what to do in Asakusa is to visit Tokyo Skytree, the tallest building in Japan. You can experience a panoramic view of the city from the tower’s observation deck. To make the most of your visit, you can dine in at one of the restaurants in Tokyo Solamachi, located at the base of Tokyo Skytree.

We enjoyed a sumptuous lunch at Tokyo Solamachi, but as with almost all tourist areas in Tokyo, it was also crowded since it was peak hour. Should you decide not to go up to the Tokyo Skytree, you can enjoy the night illumination of the tower in the evening. The Tokyo Skytree can also be seen all around Asakusa, towering over the other buildings and offering a striking backdrop to the district.

Tokyo Skytree Observation Deck
Opening Hours: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm (Last admission at 9:00 pm)

Tokyo Solamachi: Business hours start at 10:00 am to 9:00 pm (Restaurants at 6F, 7F, 30F, 31F – 11:00 am to 11:00 pm)

Book Your Stay in Asakusa

To make the most of your trip, it’s best to book your accommodation within Asakusa. Aside from the tourist spots in the district, it is directly connected to Narita International Airport via the Keisei Access Express train. Not only is it in a prime location, but hotels in Asakusa are also more affordable compared to other major areas in Tokyo.

During our trip, we stayed at Hop Inn Tokyo Asakusa for 5 nights. The hotel is within walking distance of Asakusa Station and many of the main attractions in the area, including the Sumida River and Sensō-ji Temple. Tokyo Skytree is also reachable on foot if you don’t mind about a 20-minute walk.

Hop Inn Tokyo Asakusa is highly rated on hotel booking platforms like Agoda. Newly built in 2024, this budget-friendly hotel chain offers a modern, clean, and minimalist design. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer comfort and a good location without the high price tag. While hotels in Tokyo can be expensive, Hop Inn offers an affordable option by Tokyo standards.

We booked one of their triple rooms, which came with three single beds, a small table, and two lounge chairs. Guests can also enjoy free coffee in the lobby, along with complimentary toiletries for daily use. Overall, Hop Inn Tokyo Asakusa offers great value for money and made our stay both comfortable and convenient.

If you’d like to book your stay at Hop Inn Tokyo Asakusa, you can check rates and availability on Agoda here.

Don’t miss my post: 10 Tokyo Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors.

To help you organize your Japan trip, you can also check out my Travel Planner, available in both printable and digital for stress-free planning.

I hope you found this one-day guide to Asakusa helpful in planning your trip. With its mix of tradition and modern charm, it’s definitely a district you shouldn’t miss when visiting Tokyo.

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