“Asakusa Bridge” it is. That’s what Asakusabashi means. We’re standing near Asakusabashi. It is a district in Tokyo’s Taito ward. But don’t confuse Asakusabashi with Asakusa. Asakusa is a more famous tourist area. It is two stops north on the Asakusa Subway Line.
Asakusabashi once gave access to Asakusa’s Sensoji Temple. This was during the Edo Era. The bridge spans the Kanda River. You can see scenic houseboats.
This area is known for wholesale stores. They sell beads, ribbons, and artificial flowers. It is a crafter’s paradise. Visit during the Monomachi events in the fall. Galleries and studios hold open houses. They also give workshops.
Looking for a traditional Japanese doll? Asakusabashi is the place. Many doll shops cater to wealthy Japanese families. They buy dolls for their children on special occasions. March 3 is Hina Matsuri or Doll Festival day. Symbolic gifts are given to girls. The gifts are for good health. On May 5 boys receive samurai dolls. These are for courage and strength. People buy koinobori too. These are carp banners. The banners decorate streets. They ward off evil spirits.
The area’s kimekomi dolls are available year round. They are made of wood or clay. Everything is carved into the doll and painted. Ask for Kyugetsu. It is a more affordable store. It caters to tourists. It sells dolls and souvenirs.
Asakusabashi has three ancient Shinto shrines. Ichogaoka Hachiman Shrine is the easiest to find. It’s near Asakusabashi Station. The shrine is dedicated to Shaku Gyochi. He was a priest who collected folktales.
From the late 18th to mid-19th century, Asakusabashi was home to Japan’s most advanced scientific facility. It was an astronomical observatory. It was called the Asakusa-tenmondai.
Take a romantic yakatabune river dining cruise at night. These cruises start near Ryogoku Bridge. Ryogoku Bridge dates back to the 17th century.
You can reach Asakusabashi by train. Take the JR Sobu line from central Tokyo. The stop is between Akihabara and Ryogoku. It’s a short trip from Tokyo Station. Haneda Airport is about an hour away.
Asakusabashi means “Asakusa Bridge.” It was on the Nikko Kaido and Oshu Kaido. These were two of Tokyo’s five main highways.
Yanagibashi is across Edo-dori Avenue. Yanagibashi was Tokyo’s lively entertainment district. There were many geisha houses. The Yanagibashi riverside is a boarding point. Yakatabune boats offer pleasure cruises. They go up and down the Kanda and Sumida Rivers.
Asakusabashi offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in dolls, crafts, or history, Asakusabashi is worth a visit.