Asakusa

Not only does Asakusa have temples, shrines, etc., but it also has Kappabashi-dori, which is a street lined with kitchenware and restaurantware wholesalers. It’s incredibly fun to wander down it (anyone want some of those incredibly lifelike food models you see all over Japan? You can get them here!) and look at all the stuff (gorgeous Japanese knives! Pottery! Weird cooking implements!) If you only have a day or two in Tokyo, don’t go, but if you love cooking, then this is a MUST.

I recommend going in Spring during the cherry blossoms, and strolling along the river. There is takoyaki, ‘sakura’ flavor ice cream, and other fun festival food stands, taiko drummers, and ladies strolling in kimono along the riverbank. So much fun, especially if you’re still jet-lagged!

It’s touristy and bustling but a whole lot of fun. There are lots of tasty, quick places to eat while enjoying the little shops and stands. It a fun place to meet up with someone and browse around and talk. I had a lot of fun. I’d go back and blaze through if I had some extra time to burn or just was in the area. A world away from the gardens and museum and shrines but still worth a look if you like shopping, souvenirs or that busy scene.

It’s the cutest, kitschiest, most traditional part of Tokyo. Definitely check out the shrine and flea market.

We stayed in the Tokyo Ryokan, which is just around the corner from the popular Taito Ryokan. Beautiful little place, with plenty to do nearby (Karaoke, Sushi, Okonomiyaki, and Tenya = BESTTEMPURA! :D, Senso-ji, Water Taxis).

Also, really close to Akiba~ :)