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Strolling from Asakusa to Tokyo Skytree

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Updated: September 14, 2023

Historic Asakusa, set against the pinnacle of Japanese modernity

Take yourself on a walking tour of Tokyo’s historic Asakusa district. The neighborhood, with its bygone downtown Tokyo charm, is home to the famous Sensoji Temple and chiseled rickshaw pullers along the Sumida River that flows through Tokyo. This is set against TOKYO SKYTREE that, as one of the world's tallest towers, is the pinnacle of Japanese modernity.

General Tips

  • Take a stroll or have a picnic along the Sumida River in early spring, when the cherry blossom trees are in full bloom
  • Get a bird's eye view of Tokyo, for a fee, from atop TOKYO SKYTREE
  • Go for a ride on the rickshaws for a throwback to a bygone era when it was a commonplace mode of transport like taxis are today. Learn about local history from the hunky drivers, who are a fount of knowledge

Map Legend

  • Walking
  • Taxi
  • Bus
  • Train
  • Water Bus

1

Brimming in tradition

Asakusa Station

The district of Asakusa revolves around Sensoji Temple, but there is much more to the area. You can take in serene riverfront views, hop on a boat for a river cruise, or immerse yourself in local history with a ride on a rickshaw that once served as the commoners' main mode of transport in the area. Take a little piece of Asakusa home with you, whether your own handicraft from a traditional Japanese workshop or a souvenir from one of the Nakamise shopping street vendors. You can easily get to Asakusa Station via the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, the Toei Asakusa Line, or the Tobu Skytree Line. The Asakusa Pier on the Sumida River is also the terminal stop for water buses coming from the Odaiba District.

Walking5 mins

2

Amble along the riverbank

Sumida Park (Asakusa Riverbank)

Saunter through Sumida Park, which runs alongside the banks of the river of the same name, and take in the majestic views of TOKYO SKYTREE towering on the opposite bank.

Walking5 mins

3

Where history meets modernity

Kototoi Bridge

Cross the Kototoi Bridge that spans across the Sumida River, connecting historical Asakusa with the modern TOKYO SKYTREE tower and entertainment complex. During the day, you can see pleasure boats cruising up and down the river, while at night, catch the bright lights of TOKYO SKYTREE reflecting off the water's surface.

Walking5 mins

4

Popular in spring and summer

Sumida Park (Skytree Riverbank)

If you are visiting in spring, join the crowds for a hanami flower-viewing picnic during the height of the cherry blossom season. With hundreds of cherry trees lining the river, it is easy to see why Sumida Park is one of Tokyo's top sakura spots. And in summer, jostle with the crowds for a good view of fireworks during the annual hanabi festival.

Walking12 mins

5

Be one with water

Oyokogawa Shinsui Park

Shinsui literally translates to "being friendly with water," and true to its name, the Oyokogawa River runs through the park. Plenty of water-related activities await, including fishing, while kids will enjoy playing by the water.

Walking10 mins

6

Be on top of the world

TOKYO SKYTREE

TOKYO SKYTREE was certified as the world's tallest tower by Guinness World Records in 2011. Go just before dusk and watch the city magically change from day to night from the tower's observation deck. TOKYO SKYTREE also provides unparalleled views of Mt. Fuji on a clear day. End your Tokyo walking tour with a visit to the TOKYO Solamachi shopping complex at the base of TOKYO SKYTREE, where you can find over 300 shopping and dining options. There is also a planetarium, an aquarium and a postal museum, along with plenty of original souvenir shops.

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