We stayed in a hotel about 5 minutes walk away so we came by to look around. I really wanted to buy something, but it was so crowded, it was pretty overwhelming. Also, all the food/snacks labeling was in Japanese so I had no idea what was in anything! The streets off this street had more shopping that was less crowded, so we did some shopping there. Lots of little restaurants and stalls.

Was pretty cool to walk through, lots of stalls and street food it was like a festival. Lots of people in traditional dress and people taking photos. Pretty crowded but was part of the atmosphere. Very easy to locate just outside the station. Worth going out of your way to see, Asakusa is a nice area.

Nakamise is a traditional name given to shopping streets on the grounds of temples or shrines. The streets are lined on both sides with shops selling traditional souvenirs, snacks, and sweets. Also, you are not allowed to eat in the temples. There’s also no garbage cans in the streets. You eat near the shop and once you are done give them your garbage and they will dispose it for you.

From the view atop the information center, we got a glimpse of the crowded shopping street. They sold lots of snacks, souvenirs, and whatever else you can think of. But it was packed with people on a Saturday. This was the Tokyo experience!

Went midday during peak season (early April) and it was so crowded you could barely move. Browsing the shops lost it's appeal almost immediately. I went into a tiny shop selling lucky cats but even without the people inside it was difficult to navigate. I only went into this one shop on the whole street and ended up going to shops away from this street. Would be more pleasant if less crowded.

I was surprised at how big the area is, and the quality of items on sale. Such a clean and well maintained area and not at all like other markets that I’ve seen anywhere in the world! Such honour in their transactions, and beautifully made items. I bought so much. Tried some foods and didn’t want to leave. I was there about 2 hours I think and want to go back. Such a pleasant surprise. Went back for dinner after going to the asahi brewery for a drink nearby.