Asakusa district

You’re now in the heart of Asakusa, home to Tokyo’s oldest temple, Senso-ji. Unsurprisingly, it’s thanks to this landmark that the neighbourhood is one of the city’s most visited—if not the most visited—for its deep historical roots. A district unchanged by modernity, Asakusa has managed to preserve its authenticity by showcasing Japanese traditions through a rich cultural heritage, delicious local specialities, and one of the most fascinating temples in the country. The atmosphere here takes you back in time—first to the 7th century, when the temple was built, then to the 17th and 18th centuries during the Edo period, a time when Asakusa flourished as a district of entertainment and culture thanks to its many theatres. While the area may not seem particularly charming at first sight, keep in mind that it suffered massively during World War II, like many other parts of Tokyo. After the war, the real challenge lay in quickly rebuilding Asakusa to bring the neighbourhood back to its former glory. Now a place overcrowded by tourists, it still remains an essential stop in Tokyo for anyone seeking a true taste of traditional Japan.