👋 Hello! Today, Jiji goes to Asakusa, Tokyo, Japan! Jiji always like to stop by Asakusa to take photos, to watch people, and to shop, everytime we are in Tokyo. People-watching and taking photos is particularly fun here because there are always lots of people from different age groups, both locals and tourists, dressed up in kimono! 👘 When we first visited Tokyo in early 2020, we also rented a kimono in Asakusa and wore it as we walked around the area. This is also where we often shop for souvenirs. Although Asakusa is definitely a very popular tourist spot, don’t let the crowd discourage you because there’s always something interesting to see and every visit is a unique experience in its own!
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🎧😊 Please use headphones for a more immersive experience
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🎞️ Chapters
00:00 Highlights
02:11 Start of Walking Tour
03:58 Kaminarimon Gate 浅草寺 風雷神門
06:27 Nakamise-dori Street 仲見世商店街
17:07 Hōzōmon Gate 宝蔵門
24:30 Sensō-ji 浅草寺 (Tokyo’s oldest temple)
29:18 Kingyo-sukui (Goldfish scooping game)
33:44 Hoppy Street ホッピー通り (Narrow street packed with izakaya bars)
46:35 Photos
🏃🏻♀️ Where Jiji Went
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📖 Asakusa is a district located in the Taito Ward of Tokyo. It is known for its historical and cultural significance, as well as being a popular tourist destination.
Asakusa’s history dates back to the 7th century when a Buddhist temple called Sensō-ji was founded in the area. According to legend, in the year 628, two brothers fished a golden statue of the Bodhisattva Kannon from the nearby Sumida River. They decided to enshrine the statue in a small temple, which eventually grew into Sensō-ji, making it the oldest temple in Tokyo. Sensō-ji became a center of religious and cultural activity, attracting pilgrims and visitors from all over Japan.
During the Edo Period, Asakusa developed as a bustling entertainment district, catering to the needs of the common people. The district flourished with theaters, teahouses, and traditional Japanese performing arts such as Kabuki and Bunraku. Nakamise-dori, a vibrant shopping street leading to Sensō-ji, started to take shape during this period. It offered various traditional goods and snacks to the visitors.
In the late 19th century, Japan underwent significant modernization, and Asakusa transformed along with the rest of Tokyo. Western-style buildings, electric streetcars, and new forms of entertainment emerged. However, during World War II, much of Asakusa, including Sensō-ji, was destroyed by Allied bombing raids.
After the war, Asakusa was rebuilt, and efforts were made to restore its historical and cultural heritage. Sensō-ji was reconstructed, and the district regained its popularity among locals and tourists alike. In the 1950s and 1960s, Asakusa became a vibrant entertainment district again, known for its theaters, cinemas, and nightlife.
Today, Asakusa remains a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year. The district offers a blend of traditional and modern attractions. Sensō-ji Temple and Nakamise-dori continue to be major draws, providing a glimpse into the city’s rich history and traditional culture. Asakusa’s streets are filled with traditional shops, street food stalls, and restaurants serving local delicacies. The area also hosts annual festivals such as the Sanja Matsuri, one of Tokyo’s largest and most lively Shinto festivals.
Beyond its historical and cultural significance, Asakusa is a vibrant neighborhood with a mix of residential and commercial areas. It has undergone urban redevelopment in recent years, with the addition of modern high-rise buildings and contemporary shopping complexes. However, efforts have been made to preserve the traditional charm and atmosphere of the district. Asakusa continues to evolve, embracing both its rich heritage and the influences of modern Tokyo. It remains a must-visit destination for those seeking a taste of traditional Japan amidst the bustling metropolis.
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🗓️ Filmed: June 2023
📸 Camera Gear
Sony a7IV
Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8mm GM II
📱 Socials
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#asakusa #asakusatokyo #tokyo #japan #walkingtour
1 Comment
🎞 Chapters
00:00 Highlights
02:11 Start of Walking Tour
03:58 Kaminarimon Gate 浅草寺 風雷神門
06:27 Nakamise-dori Street 仲見世商店街
17:07 Hōzōmon Gate 宝蔵門
24:30 Sensō-ji 浅草寺 (Tokyo's oldest temple)
29:18 Kingyo-sukui (Goldfish scooping game)
33:44 Hoppy Street ホッピー通り (Narrow street packed with izakaya bars)
46:35 Photos