There is one main reason to go to Asakusa (pronounced A-sak-sa), and thatis the temple complex at Senso-Ji. This large and impressive temple is the most important Buddist one in Tokyo, and while much of it is post WWII reconstruction, some original bits still exist. Also, as per the norm, it is full of school groups, so far from serene.

Approaching from the station the first thing you encounter is the giant entry gate, the Kaminarimon. It stands there at the end of the main road, with a giant lantern (representation) filling most of the arch way. Beyond this is a street of Edo period shops, Nakamisedori, where I totally forgot to buy some mochi and souvenirs. Next you reach Hozomon, a second inner gate, through which you have to pass to see the main temple itself. Along side this is a 5 story pagoda on the left, and the Shinto shrine dedidated to the Tokugawas on the right. The main halls is quite impressive, but void of much inside bar a couple of charm shops, some fortune telling drawers (think rattling sticks) and a shrine.

Post this we went to look at the Shinto shrine, Asakusajinja. This was ok, small and partly being renovated.

Lunch was fresh noodles in a cold fish based stock at a rather good and traditional noodle bar nearby.