Kaminarimon and Sensoji Temple are among Tokyo's must-visit attractions! The huge red lantern at Kaminarimon is especially eye-catching. No matter how many times I've visited, I still can't resist taking out my phone for a photo whenever I pass by.
Along the road from Kaminarimon to Sensoji Temple, shops line both sides. There are many unique little stores selling local specialties and souvenirs, as well as all kinds of street food, such as grilled rice crackers and Kaminarimon-yaki. Everything makes you want to buy some and give it a try. The fried manju at the end of the shopping street is my personal favorite! They come in both sweet and savory flavors, and it's such a treat to buy one and eat it while browsing the shops.
Asakusa isn't just a good place to visit during the day; I also highly recommend taking an evening stroll. Once night falls, the streetlights come on and there are fewer people than during the day. It's less bustling and has a different atmosphere.
Sensoji Temple | Review by Linda Liao
Other Reviews by Linda Liao
-
Ueno Zoo
This is Japan’s first ever zoo, founded in 1882. Despite its urban setting in the heart of Tokyo, it still keeps a lush, natural environment as well as about 2,500 different animal friends of some 300 different species.
If you're visiting Tokyo, consider making time for a stroll around Ueno Zoo. Opened in 1882, this zoo is located in central Tokyo, so you can enjoy seeing all kinds of animals up close without traveling far〜 It always attracts many locals on holidays and is not only a popular spot for families with children, but also a nice place for a date.
The zoo's two extremely popular pandas were returned to China in January 2026 when their loan period ended, and many fans came to say goodbye. -
-
Grapestone “Tokyo Banana Mitsuketa (found)”
“Tokyo Banana” was created in 1991 and has become a major souvenir from Tokyo. The fluffy sponge cake has a filling of pureed banana custard cream.
Tokyo Banana is a classic Tokyo souvenir. The soft, fluffy cake is filled with rich, smooth banana custard cream. It's sweet but not overly so, and never gets old. Both adults and children love it.
Besides the classic packaging, various limited-edition products have also been released from time to time in recent years. Seeing the different shapes and designs each time still feels surprising and fun. Plus, they're individually wrapped and don't need to be refrigerated, making them very convenient whether you're sharing them with friends and family or bringing them back to the office for coworkers. -
-
Shiroi Koibito
Everyone in Japan knows Hokkaido’s sweets, “Shiroi Koibito.” Ishiya Co., Ltd.was an ordinary candy maker to begin with, but utilizing quality ingredients in Hokkaido changed them into the producer of the classic dessert. More than 40 years passed since its beginning, but it is still the beloved souvenir of Hokkaido to this day.
A classic Hokkaido souvenir that can also be found in duty-free shops at major airports. Two thin, crispy cookies with a rich milky aroma sandwich sweet, smooth white chocolate. As soon as you take a bite, the rich milk powder aroma spreads through your mouth, making it very distinctive.
In addition to the regular packaging, there are also tin box versions to choose from. After finishing the cookies, you can keep the tin for collecting or storage. I currently use mine to store yarn, which is very convenient. -
