Exploring the small side streets of Asakusa offers a more traditional feel of Tokyo, and will almost feel as if you time traveled back to the Edo period (1603 – 1868). With plenty of things to do, Asakusa is a must-visit neighborhood in Tokyo.

Asakusa is absolutely worth visiting in 2026 if you are seeking a "High-Fidelity" encounter with Tokyo’s traditional Edo-period atmosphere. Centered around the iconic Senso-ji Temple and the massive red lantern of the Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), it offers a stark contrast to the neon-lit skyscrapers of Shinjuku. While the Nakamise-dori shopping street is notoriously crowded, the energy—filled with the smell of freshly baked senbei (rice crackers) and the sight of traditional crafts—is quintessential Tokyo. For the best experience, arrive before 9:00 AM or visit after sunset when the temple is beautifully illuminated and the crowds thin out. Beyond the temple, you can explore the "retro" theme park Hanayashiki, take a scenic cruise on the Sumida River, or visit Kappabashi for world-famous plastic food models. It remains the best place in the city to rent a kimono and experience the "old-school" heart of Japan amidst the hyper-modernity of the 2026 capital.