Sensoji & Nakamise Shopping Street

Asakusa is one of Tokyo’s most iconic neighborhoods, full of traditional Japanese culture, and home to the historic Sensoji Temple – along with its vibrant Nakamise Shopping Street. This pedestrian street stretches 250 meters in front of the temple, from Kaminarimon Gate to Hozomon Gate, and the path is lined with close to 100 shops offering traditional snacks and souvenirs.

The history of the Nakamise Shopping Street dates back to the 18th century, when locals were first allowed to open stalls to serve temple visitors, as long as they agreed to maintain the temple grounds while they were there. Despite sustaining damage in Tokyo’s massively destructive 1923 earthquake and WWII bombings, Nakamise Street has been lovingly restored, most recently with new copper plate roofing in 2025. Today, it remains a beloved cultural spot that blends local heritage with the lively charm of modern Tokyo.

Top Street Foods to Try on Nakamise Street

① Ningyo-yaki

A classic Asakusa treat, these small sponge cakes are baked up in little molds shaped like traditional dolls, lanterns, architecture or other fun designs, and often filled with a mouthful of anko (red bean paste). You can see the traditional preparation process for yourself at Kimura-ya, one of the most popular ningyo-yaki shops on the street.

② Traditional Candies

Ever wondered what the cute coal sprites in Spirited Away were eating? Try them for yourself! Many shops along Nakamise Street sell colorful candies, including the crunchy “konpeito” seen in the Ghibli movie, as well as spectacularly hand-sculpted “amezaiku” (candy art) creations.

③ Kaminari Okoshi

Sweet, crunchy, and highly snackable, these sugary puffed rice crackers date back to the Edo period, but they’re just as addictive today. Shops sell them in dozens of different flavors, from brown sugar to peanut, and often make seasonal varieties too. Try them all to find your favorite for souvenirs!

④ Kibi Dango

Skewered mochi-like rice cakes dusted in sweet roasted soybean flour, these are a Japanese classic, and at shops like Azuma, you can catch the staff preparing them fresh on-site.

⑤ Senbei Rice Crackers

Rice crackers take up entire aisles at Japanese grocery stores, but at Nakamise Street you can try them freshly grilled! Available in a variety of flavors, sizes, and textures, they’re a crunchy favorite among locals, and perfect for when you want a light, savory snack.

⑥ Imo Yokan

Created by the historic local confectionery Funawa, this simple yet rich sweet potato jelly is like nothing you’ll find in most of the English-speaking world. But if you love the flavors of Japan’s traditional wagashi sweets, you’ll love this unique treat!

Visiting Nakamise Shopping Street

Thanks to its position in front of Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple, Sensoji, this bustling shopping street is packed at almost all hours of the day. It’s simply a must-see in Tokyo! But our best advice is to visit in the early mornings, if you want to avoid the most intense crowding. Most shops open between about 10 in the morning and around sundown, although some are open until 7 pm. Since it’s all just a few minutes on foot from Asakusa Station (on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Toei Asakusa Line, Tobu Skytree Line, or Tsukuba Express) it’s easy to fit into your Tokyo itinerary, anyway!

^{This content has been edited and republished from Japan Web Magazine with permission. The original article was published on Mar 16, 2018 and updated on Jul 23, 2025. ©2025 Inbound Platform Corp. All Rights Reserved}