Around Asakusa

Here are some photos I took awhile back in the Asakusa area of Tokyo.  This is an area that we were always going through, but never stopping at.  When I finally did stop there I was amazed at what a great part of Tokyo we had been overlooking. 

Asakusa is where the Tokyo SkyTree tower is, and it's also where one of the most famous temples in Tokyo (Sensō-ji) is located.  What I didn't know is that around the temple there is some really, really good bazaar-style shopping with mainly traditional Japanese goods.  It is definitely on my personal list of favorite places to shop in the city.  The only downside is that it can be extremely crowded, both at the bazaar stalls and at the temple.

looking down one of the main shopping streets

The main shopping street is Nakamise-dōri which leads right up to the temple.  You can find kimonos, fans, dolls, haircombs, woodblock prints, traditional foods and a huge assortment of cheap souvenirs.  All the prices are very reasonable.  Off of the main street are many side streets with endless shops and restaurants.

these types of areas of Tokyo are the best

the SkyTree from the bazaar

There has been some kind of temple here since AD 645 but it has been destroyed and rebuilt many times (it was bombed in WWII).  Most of the current buildings have been built in the last 60 years.  The temple is popularly known as Asakusa Kannon and people still go there to pray and make wishes every day.

Hozo-mon Gate at the entrance

Hozo-mon Gate and the 5-Story Pagoda

entering the Main Hall (note the crowds)

inside the temple: to the left right outside the photo were people throwing coins
and praying. you can't seem them, but there are coins flying through the air
into the slats in this contraption

statues on the grounds

I have no doubt I'll be back in this area many time and I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Tokyo for a short stay.