Welcome to Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s most vibrant and historic districts! If you’re planning a family trip to this fascinating area, you’re in for a treat. We’ve carefully curated a list of 10 must-visit spots that are perfect for families with children. Let’s explore the best of Asakusa together!
Fun and Games
Asakusa Hanayashiki: Japan’s Oldest Amusement Park

Park Information
- Open
- Year-round (check the calendar for specific dates)
- Hours
- 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (may vary by season and weather)
- Address
- 2-28-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032
- Phone
- 03-3842-8780
If there’s one place kids love most, it’s an amusement park! And Asakusa is home to Japan’s oldest amusement park – Asakusa Hanayashiki.
Don’t miss “Nin Nin Park,” where kids can experience ninja training! It’s a popular attraction with a ticketing system, so grab your tickets as soon as you enter the park.
Admission and Ride Fees (as of February 2024)
Asakusa Hanayashiki charges an admission fee just to enter the park.
If you want to enjoy the attractions, you’ll need either a free pass or ride tickets in addition to the admission fee.
- Adults (13-64 years): 1,200 yen
- Children (5-12 years): 600 yen
- Seniors (65+ years): 600 yen
- Infants (0-4 years): Free
- Visitors with disabilities: Free
- Adults (13-64 years): 2,800 yen
- Children (5-12 years): 2,400 yen
- Seniors (65+ years): 2,200 yen
- Single ticket: 100 yen
- Book of 11 tickets: 1,000 yen
Cultural Experiences
Experience the Spirit of Asakusa: Witnessing the Mikoshi

When you think of Asakusa, vibrant festivals and majestic portable shrines (mikoshi) come to mind. Let’s go see the actual mikoshi that are carried during festivals!
Asakusa Shrine (Asakusa Jinja)
- Address:
- 2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032
- Phone:
- 03-3844-1575
The Honsha Mikoshi at Asakusa Shrine
Asakusa Shrine (Asakusa Jinja) is located to the right of Sensoji Temple and houses three main mikoshi used in the annual Sanja Matsuri festival held in May.
The mikoshi enshrined at Asakusa Shrine are special portable shrines known as “honsya-mikoshi” (shrine mikoshi).
- Ichinomiya: Adorned with a phoenix at the center of its roof
- Ninomiya: Decorated with a giboshi (ornamental roof finial)
- Sannomiya: Also decorated with a giboshi
During the festival, these three mikoshi are carried along separate routes, making a complete circuit of the Asakusa area. Neighborhood associations along each route take turns carrying the mikoshi.
During Sanja Matsuri, these main mikoshi are carried around Asakusa on three different routes. Local neighborhood associations take turns carrying them.
Don’t Miss the Neighborhood Mikoshi!
In addition to the main mikoshi, there are “chokai mikoshi” (neighborhood mikoshi) owned by each local association. These are paraded within their respective areas.
- Near the ticket gates of Asakusa Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line (Asakusa Higashi Chokai mikoshi)
- Kaminarimon 5656 Hall
- Various other locations throughout Asakusa
Delicious Street Food in Asakusa
Asakusa is home to numerous street-side shops where you can grab a quick bite between sightseeing adventures. Let me introduce you to some of the most delicious and recommended spots!
Asakusa Menchi: Juicy Deep-Fried Goodness

Shop Information
- Hours:
- 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (or until sold out)
- Address:
- 2-3-3 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032
- Phone:
- 03-3844-1575
What is Menchi-katsu?
Menchi-katsu is a Japanese dish consisting of minced meat (usually pork or beef) that’s breaded and deep-fried, similar to a croquette.
Asakusa Menchi is renowned for its freshly made, crispy, and juicy menchi-katsu (deep-fried minced meat cutlet). It’s the perfect spot to satisfy your hunger pangs!
The shop has a nearby seating area where you can rest and enjoy your food, making it an ideal stop for a quick break during your Asakusa exploration.
Chibaya: Asakusa’s Sweet Potato Delight
Shop Information
- Hours:
- 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (or until sold out)
- Address
- 3-9-10 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032
- Phone
- 03-3872-2302
Craving a unique Japanese sweet treat? Head to Chibaya, a specialty shop hidden behind Sensoji Temple.
What is Daigaku Imo?
Daigaku imo, literally “university potato,” is a popular Japanese snack. It consists of deep-fried sweet potato chunks glazed with a sweet syrup, creating a delightful contrast of crispy exterior and soft interior.
- Daigaku Imo: Classic candied sweet potatoes
- Kiriage: Thin, crispy sweet potato chips with syrup
- Fukashi Imo: Simple steamed sweet potatoes
The must-try item is the addictive kiriage. These crispy, syrup-coated slices are irresistible and offer a unique twist on the traditional daigaku imo.
Chibaya’s focused menu and expertly crafted treats make it a perfect stop for experiencing a beloved Japanese snack during your Asakusa adventure.
Tennen Taiyaki Sharaku: Authentic Fish-Shaped Treats
Shop Information
- Hours
- 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Closed
- Every Monday
- Address
- 3-9-10 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032
- Phone
- 03-3873-3453
Sharaku’s taiyaki is the real deal. Their homemade anko filling extends from head to tail, perfectly complementing the crispy exterior for an exceptional taste experience.
There are small benches in front of the shop where you can sit and enjoy your treats immediately.
What is Taiyaki?
Taiyaki is a popular Japanese snack shaped like a fish. It consists of a crispy waffle-like outer shell filled with sweet red bean paste (anko).
The anko has a relatively light sweetness, making it easy to enjoy. In fact, the anko is so delicious that several nearby cafes feature menu items using Sharaku’s red bean paste.Besides taiyaki, Sharaku also offers drinks.
Sharaku’s authentic taiyaki provides a delightful taste of traditional Japanese sweets. Whether you’re a first-time taster or a taiyaki enthusiast, this shop offers a genuine and satisfying experience in the heart of Asakusa.
Funachuu-po: Asakusa’s Karaage Specialist

Shop Information
- Hours:
- 11:30 AM – 7:00 PM
- Closed
- Every Wednesday (sometimes open until noon on Wednesdays)
- Address
- Chatelet Asakusa, 2-30-13 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032
- Phone
- 03-5806-3322
Located just behind Sensoji Temple, Funachuu-po is a specialty shop dedicated to this beloved Japanese dish.
Here’s a surprising fact: how much do you think this bento box costs? The answer is… only 500 yen, tax included!
What is Karaage?
Karaage is Japanese-style fried chicken, typically marinated in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic before being coated in potato starch and deep-fried to crispy perfection.
The shop often fries the chicken to order, which might take some time, but the freshly fried karaage is absolutely worth the wait.
Since there’s no eating area at the shop, we recommend enjoying your meal at the benches under the wisteria trellis at Sensoji Temple, just a 3-minute walk away.
Funachuu-po offers an affordable and authentic taste of Japanese fried chicken in the heart of Asakusa. It’s a perfect spot for a quick, delicious meal during your temple visit.
Savor Authentic Japanese Cuisine in Asakusa
Kura Sushi: A Festive Sushi Experience in Asakusa

On the 3rd floor of Asakusa ROX, you’ll find the Kura Sushi Global Flagship Store. This unique location offers more than just sushi – it’s an immersive Japanese festival experience!
After exploring Asakusa’s street food scene, you might want to sit down for a more relaxed dining experience. Look no further than Kura Sushi Global Flagship Store on the 3rd floor of Asakusa ROX.
What is Kura Sushi?
Kura Sushi is a popular conveyor belt sushi chain in Japan, known for its affordable prices and fun dining experience.
Unique Festival-Themed Interior
The Global Flagship Store in Asakusa features a festival-themed interior, complete with lanterns and masks adorning the walls, and even a small food stall setup. This creates a lively atmosphere that captures the spirit of traditional Japanese matsuri (festivals).
Interactive Dining Experience

One of the highlights of dining at Kura Sushi is the “Bikkura Pon” game. If you’re lucky enough to get a winning capsule, you can enjoy games like target shooting or ring toss, adding an extra layer of fun to your meal.
Exclusive Sushi Options
This flagship store offers special sushi items that you can’t find at other Kura Sushi locations. It’s a great opportunity to try unique flavors while enjoying the conveyor belt sushi experience.
Kura Sushi’s Asakusa location provides a perfect blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern dining convenience. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to experience Japanese sushi culture in a fun, affordable setting while taking a break from sightseeing in Asakusa.
Sukiyaki Imahan Main Store: A Family-Friendly Dining Experience in Asakusa

Shop Information
- Hours
- Lunch: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
- Dinner: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Closed
- Tuesdays
- Mondays and Wednesdays may also be irregular holidays, so please confirm when making a reservation
- Tuesdays
- Address
- 1-19-7 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032
- Phone
- 03-3841-1411
If you’re looking for a traditional Asakusa dining experience with your family, Imahan Main Store is highly recommended. Located near Kaminarimon on Shin-Nakamise Street, the restaurant may appear small from the street, but it features spacious private rooms in the back.
What is Sukiyaki?
Sukiyaki is a popular Japanese hot pot dish consisting of thinly sliced beef, vegetables, and tofu, simmered in a sweet soy sauce-based broth. It’s typically cooked at the table and eaten by dipping the ingredients in raw beaten egg.
Private Rooms for a Relaxed Meal
The private rooms are well-separated, resembling a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), allowing you to enjoy your meal without worrying about disturbing others. This makes it an ideal spot for families with children.
Over 100 Years of Tradition
Established in 1895, Imahan has been serving sukiyaki for over a century, ensuring an exceptional dining experience with a time-tested reputation for quality.For a taste of authentic sukiyaki in a family-friendly setting, Imahan Main Store offers the perfect blend of tradition and comfort in the heart of Asakusa.
Experience Traditional Japanese Culture
Asakusa Kingyo: A Nostalgic Goldfish Scooping Experience

Shop Information
- Hours
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Closed
- Irregular holidays
- Price
- 400 yen for 2 scoops
- Address
- 2-7-13 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032
- Phone
- 03-3847-5251
Have you ever tried goldfish scooping, known as “kingyo-sukui” in Japanese? This traditional summer festival game is a beloved pastime in Japan, and you can experience it year-round at Asakusa Kingyo.
Located in the Nishi-Sandō (Festival Shopping Street) to the left of Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Kingyo offers visitors a chance to try their hand at this classic game. The shop features a large wooden tank in the center, filled with colorful goldfish swimming about.
What is Goldfish Scooping?
Goldfish scooping involves using a small paper net (poi) to scoop goldfish from a tank. The challenge lies in the delicate nature of the paper net, which can easily break if not handled carefully.
Visitor-Friendly Options
Worried about what to do with the goldfish after scooping them? No problem! Asakusa Kingyo has thought of everything:
- You can return the goldfish if you don’t want to keep them.
- If you inform the staff beforehand that you don’t intend to take any fish home, they’ll provide you with a slightly more durable scoop for a longer playtime.
- Even if you don’t manage to scoop any fish, the shop will give you one goldfish as a courtesy, ensuring children don’t leave disappointed.
Asakusa Kingyo offers a perfect opportunity to experience a slice of traditional Japanese festival culture right in the heart of Asakusa. It’s an enjoyable activity for both children and adults, providing a unique and memorable experience during your visit to this historic area of Tokyo.
Caricature: A Unique Souvenir from Asakusa
Shop Information
- Open
- Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
- Closed
- Wednesday
- Hours
- 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Last order at 5:30 PM)
- Address
- 1-19-3 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032
- Phone
- 03-5830-7220
Looking for a memorable souvenir from your Asakusa trip? Why not have a caricature drawn of you and your family?Just to the right of Kaminarimon Gate, you’ll find Caricature, a shop that specializes in creating personalized illustrations. In about 10 minutes per person, their skilled artists can capture your unique features in a surprisingly accurate and fun caricature.
- Choose from three Asakusa-themed backgrounds.
- Decide on the level of exaggeration for your features.
- Select the illustration style.
The “Quick” option allows you to take your caricature home on the same day. The base price is 3,300 yen for one person, with each additional person costing 2,750 yen.You can also add dates or text to your illustration – just ask the staff for details!

I recommend choosing the “moderate” level of exaggeration. Even with the “Quick” style, the artists produce impressive illustrations that don’t look rushed at all. These caricatures make excellent decorations for your home and serve as wonderful mementos of your trip to Asakusa.
Asakusa: A Family-Friendly Adventure in the Heart of Tokyo
As we conclude our journey through Asakusa, it’s clear that this historic district offers a perfect blend of traditional Japanese culture and family-friendly entertainment. From the thrilling rides at Asakusa Hanayashiki to the spiritual experience of witnessing mikoshi at Asakusa Shrine, there’s something for everyone in your family to enjoy.

Indulge in the diverse street food scene, sampling everything from crispy menchi-katsu to sweet daigaku imo. For a sit-down meal, don’t miss the interactive sushi experience at Kura Sushi or the traditional sukiyaki at Imahan.

Immerse yourself in Japanese culture with activities like goldfish scooping at Asakusa Kingyo, or create lasting memories with a personalized caricature near Kaminarimon Gate.

Asakusa truly encapsulates the essence of Tokyo – a harmonious mix of the old and new, making it an ideal destination for families seeking an authentic Japanese experience. Whether you’re here for a day or a week, Asakusa’s charm, flavors, and activities will leave you with unforgettable memories of your time in Japan.