『Michelin Two-Star Attraction』【Asakusa Kannon Temple】Kaminarimon・Nakamise Shopping Street～Shitamachi Style～『Asakusa Yokocho』Combining Food and Festivals

I will take you deep into Asakusa to experience the [Asakusa Kannon Temple] Kaminarimon, Nakamise-dori, and the latest hot spot "Asakusa Yokocho" that combines food, festivals, and the style of downtown! My first close contact with Asakusa: the charm of the ancient city with two Michelin stars Whenever I think of my trip to Tokyo, the bright red color and the aroma of incense and desserts in the air always come to my mind. I am talking about [Asakusa Kannon Temple], which is known as a Michelin two-star attraction. This is not just a temple, but more like a portal through time, allowing me, a modern traveler, to get a glimpse of Tokyo's oldest downtown style. Kaminarimon: A shocking starting point My trip to Asakusa always starts with the huge "Kaminarimon". When I stood in front of it, looking up at the majestic statues of the Thunder God and the Wind God, and the huge lantern hanging under the gate, a solemn and excited mood arose spontaneously. The momentum of the lantern made me, who saw it for the first time, couldn't help but exclaim "Wow". Many people take photos here, but for me, Kaminarimon is not only a check-in point, it is also a concrete manifestation of the spirit of Asakusa, foreshadowing the excitement to come. Nakamise Shopping Street: A sensory feast for food and souvenirs Passing through Kaminarimon, what comes into view is the endless "Nakamise Shopping Street". This is simply a paradise for food and souvenirs! My eyes are simply not enough, and every store exudes an alluring aroma. Of course, I won't miss the freshly baked senbei, which has a crispy and crispy taste, simple but satisfying. There are also those cute dolls, hot fillings, and various shapes. I almost eat while walking and can't stop at all. In addition to food, this place is also full of a variety of traditional crafts and souvenirs, from exquisite kimono items to Asakusa-limited specialty products, each of which makes people love it and want to take all the memories of Asakusa home. Walking in Nakamise Shopping Street, I feel a lively and vibrant traditional atmosphere, this is the unique "Shitamachi style"! Asakusa Kannon Temple: A Place of Peace for the Soul After walking through the bustling shopping streets, I finally arrived at the main hall of [Asakusa Kannon Temple]. Standing in front of the main hall, I saw many people worshiping devoutly, and the smoke from the incense burner was rising with people's wishes. I also lit incense, closed my eyes, and felt the tranquility and solemnity in the smoke. The atmosphere here is completely different from the hustle and bustle of the shopping street, which calmed my soul. Many people draw lots next to the main hall, and I also drew one according to local customs. Although I drew a bad lot, it was also an interesting experience to tie it to the rack according to custom. Asakusa Yokocho: A new trendy combination of food and festivals What impressed me most was that a new hot spot has appeared in Asakusa in recent years-"Asakusa Yokocho"! It perfectly combines food and the atmosphere of festivals, which opened my eyes. This place is not like a traditional restaurant, but more like a combination of a food court and an izakaya, but its decoration design is full of Japanese festival elements, such as colorful lanterns, festival ribbons, and even stalls that simulate festival stalls. I remember that night, in Asakusa Yokocho, I tasted a variety of Japanese snacks, from skewers to sushi, each of which was fresh and delicious. What's even better is that there are performances held here from time to time, including traditional Japanese arts and modern music performances, making the entire space lively and extraordinary, as if every day is a festival. This creative combination of food and festival atmosphere really surprised me, a traveler who loves bustle. It has injected new vitality into the downtown style of Asakusa, but it does not lose its traditional charm. My Asakusa travel tips: * Tips to avoid crowds: Asakusa Kannon Temple is very popular, especially on weekends and holidays, when the crowds will be very turbulent. If you want to take pictures of Kaminarimon or the shopping street where there are fewer people, it is recommended to arrive early in the morning (for example, before 8 am) when there are not many tourists and you can enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere. * Food exploration: The desserts and senbei in Nakamise Shopping Street are must-try! In addition to the senbei and Ningyoyaki I mentioned, you can also try other special snacks, such as fried buns, soft serve ice cream, etc. Don't be afraid to try! * Experience Kimono: There are many kimono rental shops in Asakusa. If you want to experience the feeling of walking around Asakusa in a kimono, you can find many options near the shopping street. Wearing a kimono and walking in the traditional streets will be very tasteful when taking pictures! * Strolling around: There are many alleys and special shops worth exploring around Asakusa, such as Denpoin-dori and Kappabashi Tool Street (kitchenware street). You can leave some time to stroll around and find more surprises. * More lively at night: Asakusa Yokocho will be particularly lively at night, and the atmosphere is very good. If you want to experience the festival atmosphere and Japanese izakaya culture, it is recommended to arrange to go there at dinner time. * Pay attention to business hours: Most stores in Nakamise Shopping Street open around 9 am and close around 5-6 pm. The main hall of Kannonji Temple is usually open until around 5 pm. Asakusa Yokocho is open later. Transportation Subway Station Location: It is very convenient to get to Asakusa Kannonji Temple, and there are many subway lines to get there. Here are a few subway stations I recommend: * Tokyo Metro Ginza Line (G19) Asakusa Station: * This is the most commonly used and convenient station. After exiting Exit 1, you can see Kaminarimon in about 1-2 minutes on foot. * It is very convenient to come from Ueno, Ginza, and Shibuya. * Toei Asakusa Line (A18) Asakusa Station: * After exiting Exit A4, you can also reach Kaminarimon in about 3-5 minutes on foot. * It is very convenient to come from Haneda Airport or Narita Airport (take the Access Express) without changing trains. * Tobu Skytree Line (TS01) Asakusa Station: * This station is mainly the starting point for going to Nikko, Kinugawa Onsen, etc., but it only takes about 5 minutes to walk to Kaminarimon from here. * Tsukuba Express Line (TX03) Asakusa Station: * This station is a little further away from Kaminarimon and Kannonji Temple, about 8-10 minutes walk, but it is also an option if your accommodation is closer to this line. Basically, just find "Asakusa Station", get off the train and follow the crowd or signs, and you will soon reach Kaminarimon and start your Asakusa trip! For me, Asakusa is not just a tourist attraction, it is also a living museum that allows me to deeply experience the history, culture, food and human touch of Tokyo. From the majestic Kaminarimon to the bustling Nakamise Shopping Street, to the solemn Kannonji Temple, and the vibrant Asakusa Yokocho, every visit makes me discover new things. If you are like me, and like to explore those unique and humane places, then Asakusa is definitely your best choice!