Tokyo Asakusa: Senso-ji Temple & Old Town Walking Tour

Summary

Old tokyo streets lanterns incense and laughter in asakusa

You’ll weave through Tokyo’s oldest streets with a small group, tasting warm ningyo-yaki on Nakamise Street and joining locals at Senso-ji Temple’s incense ritual. Hear stories from your guide as you wander between shrines and across Azuma Bridge — it’s a real slice of old Tokyo that lingers long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that hit me was the smell — sweet incense drifting from somewhere ahead as we squeezed into Nakamise Shopping Street. Our guide, Emi, waved us over to a tiny stall selling ningyo-yaki (those little sponge cakes shaped like lanterns). She grinned and said, “You have to eat it warm.” I tried, powdered sugar stuck to my fingers. There was a group of schoolkids giggling nearby, all matching backpacks and bouncing energy. I’m not sure what they found so funny — maybe us.

Senso-ji Temple itself feels bigger than it looks in photos. The Thunder Gate is just… loud with color and people. Emi explained how you’re supposed to waft the smoke over yourself for good luck before heading up the steps. I watched an old man do it with such care I got a bit self-conscious about my own clumsy attempt. Inside, the light goes soft and gold for a second and everything hushes except for coins clinking in the offering box. It’s hard not to get swept up in it.

We wandered through side streets after that — some shopkeepers nodding hello, others too busy arranging fans or sweets in their windows. At Asakusa Shrine, Emi told us about the three fishermen who started all this centuries ago. There were paper fortunes tied everywhere, fluttering like tiny flags. I tried reading one but gave up halfway; my Japanese is still hopeless (Emi just laughed). We crossed Azuma Bridge at the end, wind coming off the Sumida River and Tokyo Skytree poking out behind rooftops. I still think about that view sometimes when things are noisy at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Asakusa's historic and vibrant sites

• Visit Nakamise Shopping Street
• Learn history at Senso-ji Temple
• Visit Asakusa Shrine for reflection
• Walk across Azuma Bridge
• Explore Shin Nakamise shopping street
• Experience nightlife at Hoppy Street

Top questions

How long is the Asakusa walking tour?

The tour covers several key sites in Asakusa and typically lasts around 2-3 hours.

Is Senso-ji Temple included on this tour?

Yes, Senso-ji Temple is a central part of the walking tour experience.

Are snacks or food included during the tour?

The tour passes by many local snack stalls where you can purchase traditional treats like ningyo-yaki.

Is this walking tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces on this Asakusa walking tour are wheelchair accessible.

Does the tour include English-speaking guides?

Yes, an English-speaking local guide leads your group throughout the experience.

How big are the groups on this Asakusa tour?

The group size is small, with a maximum of 12 participants per tour.

Are infants or children allowed on this walking tour?

Infants and small children can join and may ride in prams or strollers during the walk.

What else do you see besides Senso-ji Temple?

You’ll also visit Nakamise Shopping Street, Asakusa Shrine, Shin Nakamise Street, Hoppy Street, and cross Azuma Bridge for city views.

What’s included

Your day includes guided walks through Asakusa’s historic streets with an English-speaking local guide by your side; visits to Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street; stories about Tokyo’s history; a small group setting for easy wandering; plus full accessibility for wheelchairs or strollers along every stop.