Tokyo Asakusa Rickshaw Tour: Old Streets & Sumida Park Views

Summary

Rickshaw ride through Asakusa’s temples, retro alleys & riverside

You’ll ride through Asakusa’s lively streets in a traditional rickshaw with a local guide, pass Senso-ji Temple’s lanterns, catch river breezes in Sumida Park, and maybe even try your luck at Ushijima Shrine’s fortune cow. Expect unexpected stories and small moments that stick with you long after.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the sound — the soft clack of the rickshaw wheels over old stone as we turned off the busy street in Asakusa. Our driver, Kenji, grinned back at us and asked if we’d ever tried this before (we hadn’t). He pointed out the maple trees just starting to turn, and I caught a whiff of sweet chestnuts from a vendor nearby. It felt strange at first, sitting up high while people strolled below, but after a minute or two you sort of forget yourself and just watch Tokyo swirl by.

Kenji knew every shortcut and story. He slowed down near Senso-ji Temple so we could see the lanterns — couldn’t take the rickshaw inside the temple grounds, but he explained why people rub smoke on their arms at the incense burner (for good health). There was a moment on Rokku Street when he stopped so we could spot all those raccoon statues lined up along the shops. I tried to say “tanuki” properly and he laughed — not unkindly — then told us about how this used to be Tokyo’s entertainment district before the war. The air smelled faintly like fried dough from somewhere I couldn’t see.

We crossed over to Sumida Park for a bit of quiet. The river breeze was cool against my face, and you get this wide-open view of Tokyo Skytree framed by cherry trees (even without blossoms it’s something). Kenji suggested we visit Ushijima Shrine — apparently there’s a lucky cow statue there you’re supposed to touch for good fortune. I did it half-jokingly but honestly… who doesn’t need more luck? At some point I realized I’d stopped checking my phone entirely.

I still think about that feeling — being carried through all these layers of Tokyo history with someone who actually lives here. The ride ended back near Hanayashiki amusement park, which looked both faded and cheerful in that late afternoon light. We said goodbye to Kenji and walked away with legs that felt lighter than when we started. If you’re looking for a day trip in Tokyo that feels both classic and oddly personal, this rickshaw tour is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Asakusa and Sumida River area

• Board traditional Japanese rickshaw
• Pass by Senso-ji Temple gate
• View Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa Shrine
• Visit Buddhist temple with radish lanterns
• Stop at Imado Shrine with cat figurines
• Pass through historic Edo period street
• See raccoon-themed quirky street
• Pass by Asakusa Hanayashiki amusement park
• View Asahi Beer Headquarters golden flame
• Cross bridge to Sumida Park
• Relax and view Tokyo Skytree from park
• Visit Ushijima Shrine with three-entrance gate
• Pass by Rokku Street retro entertainment district
• Pass by Asakusa Engei Hall entertainment venue

Top questions

How long does the Tokyo Asakusa Rickshaw Tour last?

The duration depends on your chosen route; shorter or longer tours are available depending on interest.

Is pickup included for this rickshaw tour?

The tour includes flexible pickup options; check details when booking.

Can children join the rickshaw ride?

Yes, children aged 5 years and under can ride free if sitting on an adult's lap; older children require their own seat booking.

Are English-speaking guides available?

Yes, English-speaking drivers/guides are available upon request when booking (subject to availability).

Is the tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?

The tour is wheelchair- and stroller-friendly; infants can also join in prams or carriers.

Which attractions are included in this day trip?

You may see Senso-ji Temple, Sumida Park, Ushijima Shrine, Hanayashiki amusement park, Imado Shrine, Rokku Street, and views of Tokyo Skytree—depending on your chosen route length.

Can I customize my rickshaw route in Asakusa?

Yes, routes can be customized based on your interests; discuss preferences directly with your guide before starting.

How many people fit in one rickshaw?

A maximum of two adults per rickshaw; up to two small children (5 years or under) may ride with adults if seated on laps.

What’s included

Your day includes a private rickshaw ride through Asakusa with an English- or Japanese-speaking local driver-guide (depending on your preference), plus flexible pickup arrangements. All routes are customizable based on what you want to see—temples, shrines, parks—and everything is stroller- and wheelchair-friendly for easy joining.