Asakusa – The Hub of Biggest Festivals and Amazing Temples

On the east of Honshu Island lies the capital of Japan, Tokyo. It is one of the most populous metropolitan, renowned as an important economic hub in the world. Tokyo is home to many national parks, museums in addition to theatres promoting performing arts, both contemporary and traditional.

One of the top historical sites in Tokyo is at Asakusa, a district in Taito Ward of Tokyo. Here you can witness the splendour of ancient Tokyo while exploring many of its cultural, religious and historical tourist attractions. In the olden times this area used to be a prominent entertainment district which housed many Kabuki theatres. Kabuki is a famous long standing stylised dance-drama in Japan.

Asakusa has preserved scores of historical sites retaining the glory of the old Tokyo. It has many Buddhist temples where Senso-ji is the most prominent. Senso-ji temple is one of the oldest temples in Tokyo built in the seventh century. Its main entrance, Kaminarimon or Thunder Gate, features a giant crimson paper lantern with a golden base. You will also see the statue of Raijin the thunder god and statue of Fujin the wind god at this gate.

Kaminarimon leads you to one of the oldest shopping centres of Tokyo called Nakamise Street, dating back to 17th century. Presently it houses 89 shops straddling the 250 metre path to the temple, and sells knickknacks, traditional attires, scrolls and sweets. Senso-ji's second gate sits at the end of Nakamise Street, and is known as Hozomon or the Treasure House Gate.

You will be amazed to find two straw sandals of over four metres in height and over two tons in weight suspended on its walls. Hozomon also houses statues of guardian deities and stunning lanterns besides treasures of the temple. Senso-ji temple also has huge incense burners, fortune telling stand and a grand five storey pagoda Gojunoto, acclaimed to withstand earthquakes.

Asakusa hosts one of the biggest festivals in Tokyo popularly known as the Sanja Matsuri held in May, annually. The temple Asakusa Jinja, sited toward the east of Senso-ji Temple, hosts this spectacular event. You will see vivid processions brimming with traditional musicians and performers. Later the mikoshi, portable shrines of the temple, are conveyed back and forth for purification. Another cultural festival is the Asakusa Samba Carnival popular among the Brazilian residents and locals. This too has vibrant parades, performances and even stage shows attracting millions of spectators and participants from all directions.

Not only sightseeing and enjoying the exciting festival vibes, but you can also set out on a shopping delight while in Asakusa. Kappabashi Dori is a wholesale shopping area for restaurant supplies. They also sell Japanese pottery made in factories besides fine kitchen knives and crockery among others. If you prefer handmade pottery then head towards Denkama resting in the vicinity of Kappabashi Dori. For plastic toys and trinkets of all sizes and shapes visit Kiwa Seisakusho and for the best bead crafts drop by the Asakusabashi.

Asakusa also nestles several restaurants and food outlets with budget to mid-range choices. At these restaurants you can indulge in local delicacies such as Senbei rice crackers, steamed dumplings and Tempura besides an array of delectable desserts.

When you are in Tokyo do not forget to visit Asakusa, the district that well preserves the old traditions, culture and historical sites of Tokyo for centuries. Stay at one of the hotel apartments in Tokyo and visit the key temples, enjoy festive seasons and shop for your favourite souvenirs in Asakusa. Somerset Azabu East offers elegant Tokyo accommodation set only minutes away from the shopping and entertainment districts. Relish the modern facilities offered at their serviced apartments and have a delightful vacation in Tokyo.