Tokyo has always been a top destination for all travellers and its no surprise why. The destination boasts an interesting mix of being one of the most modern places in the world while strongly holding on to its unique traditions ? Credit: Giphy And while most of Tokyo has developed into a concrete jungle with skyscrapers, neon lights and designer shops, Asakusa has remained as a calm and traditional part of Tokyo. From amazing sightseeing locations, awesome shopping places, drool-worthy Japanese food and convenient accommodations, this Muslim-friendly guide is all you need to max out your trip to Asakusa ? P.S. If it's your first time to Japan, check out our guide for travel etiquette in Japan and some awesome accommodations in Tokyo near halal food.

THINGS TO DO IN ASAKUSA

1 - Visit Senso-Ji Temple

Credit: @_lindundun on Instagram

Founded in 628, Senso-ji is the oldest temple in Tokyo. Known as the temple of the Asakusa Kannon to the people all over Japan, it attracts approximately 30 million visitors every year.

Look out for the iconic Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) near the entrance! First built in 942, the gate has been destroyed numerous times and the current dates to only 1950.

Address: 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan Subway: Asakusa Station (Tobu Skytree/ Tokyo Metro Ginza/ Tsukuba Express line) – a 5 min walk from Asakusa Station/ Asakusa Station (Toei Subway Asakusa Line) – a 7 min walk Opening hours: Main hall: 6am – 5pm (Opens at 6:30am from October to March), Temple grounds: Always open

#HHWT Tip: Get a Tokyo Subway Ticket to enjoy unlimited journeys on all Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines for 1, 2 or 3 days

2 - Rent a traditional Japanese Kimono

Credit: @tosh281 on Instagram What better way to explore Asakusa than to don a traditional kimono to fully immerse yourself in the cultural experience? Plus, you’ll get to try how it feels like walking around in Japanese clogs! This is not just for the ladies, the men can rent kimonos too ?

#HHWT Tip: There are various kimono rental stores around Asakusa so take your pick! You can rent a Kimono from Sakura Photo Kimono! Don’t forget to make a reservation in advance ?

3 - Ride a retro roller coaster at Hanayashiki Amusement Park

Credit: @stetran on Instagram A charming little old theme park of the beaten path. Exploring this place feels This place is especially great for kids! Find many retro rides, like one of the oldest roller coasters in Japan (aptly named 'Roller Coaster'), and some snack stalls and a simple yet vintage atmosphere ? Address: 2 Chome-28-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan Subway: Located on the west side of Sensoji Temple and is just a three min walk from the temple’s main hall. A 6-minute walk away from TX Asakusa Station, and a 10-minute walk from the Tobu, Toei, and Tokyo Metro Asakusa stations. Opening hours: 10am - 6pm daily Website | Facebook 4 - Snap a photo of Japan's tallest tower - Tokyo Skytree ?

Credit: @smoshess on Instagram At 364 meters tall, the Tokyo Skytree is the second tallest building in the world after the Burj Khalifa and is a sight to see! You'll be able to see the spectacular broadcasting tower from many areas in Asakusa to get a fantastic photo of it. And once night falls, the tower illuminates a stunning purple or blue ? Of course, you can also head up to the observation deck and get a jaw-dropping 360 view of Tokyo! Address: 1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo 131-0045, Japan Subway: From Asakusa Station, 1 stop, a 2-minute ride on the Toby Skytree Line, or a 15-minute walk. From Ueno Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line), transfer to the Toby Skytree Line at Asakusa Station, 14 minutes total. Opening hours: 8am - 10pm daily Website 5 - Take a river cruise down Sumida River

Credit: @sarunstyle on Instagram Enjoy a relaxing and scenic cruise down Sumida river. The river cruise can range from 40 minutes to 2 hours and you'll get to see multiple highlights of Tokyo without leaving your seat. How convenient is that? There are multiple operators for this cruise with the most common route being from Sumida to Omaida. 6 - Take a scenic walk through Sumida Park

Credit: @pamoian on Instagram A stunning park by the riverside for a scenic walk, especially during the cherry blossom season when the pink flowers are in full bloom, or during autumn when the flowers and leaves show vibrant colours of red, orange and green. You can even pack some simple meals to have your own picnic in the elegant park - a common practice seen there ? Address: 1 Chome-2-5 Mukojima, Sumida City, Tokyo 131-0033, Japan Opening hours: 24 hours 7 - Explore Asakusa on a traditional rickshaw

Credit: @iluvllamas2 on Instagram You can hit multiple attractions in Asakusa with a different experience. Instead of walking around, why not experience Asakusa on a traditional Japanese rickshaw? Asakusa is the only place in Tokyo they are currently allowed to operate. Many of the drivers can converse in English and are more than happy to be somewhat of a tour guide too as they take you around. A number of them are actually university students who do it to stay fit while improving their English! The rides range from 12 minutes to 2 hours and you can find these rickshaws around Asakusa station and tourist attractions. Operating hours: usually 9.30am till sunset (time differs depending on the season) 8 - Soak in the view from Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Centre's rooftop

There is an Asakusa Information Centre if you need more information or directions. This tourist information centre is just opposite Kaminarimon. Information is provided in Japanese, English, Chinese and Korean. If you want to know the way to the place of interest or if you are simply lost, this is the place to seek advice and information. And don't forget to head up to the 7th floor and check out the free observation deck for an amazing view of Asakusa. On a good day, you'll even get to see Mount Fuji ? Address: 2 Chome-18-9 Kaminarimon, 台東区 Taito City, Tokyo 111-0034, Japan Subway: 2-minute walk from Asakusa Station Opening hours: 9am - 8pm daily Website 9 - Be a ninja for a day

Credit: @hytotheku on Instagram Experience one of your (or at least some of us) childhood dreams of being a ninja! Learn about the history and significance of ninjas to the Japanese culture. Professional ninja guides will teach you samurai techniques, shuriken (ninja stars), ninja blowguns and many other weapons. And the best part - you'll get to dress up in a ninja costume too ? There are a few dojos around but one of the popular ones is Ninja Samurai Dojo. Address: 2 Chome-17-8 Kaminarimon, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0034, Japan Opening hours: 10am - 7pm daily Website 10 - Watch a sumo wrestling match

Credit: @abuttercup on Instagram Watch massive sumo wrestlers train in the morning and learn about this extremely unique Japanese national sport! Your sumo guides will explain the traditions and rituals of sumo tournaments, some of the basic sumo wrestling techniques and even a mini sumo match! There are multiple places with this activity such as Asakusa Sumo Experience. P.S. Be prepared for the loud thunderous sounds when the sumo wrestlers hit each other ⚡️ #HHWT tip: It is best to book your tickets in advance since it's an extremely popular activity that sells out fast. For major sumo wrestling tournaments, you might have to book tickets in advance. Food: Some of the sumo experience provide vegetarian lunch. We advise that you arrange a vegetarian lunch beforehand and dine at your own discretion.

SHOPPING IN ASAKUSA

1 - Nakamise Shopping Street

Credit: @the13thgeek on Instagram Nakamise is a shopping street leading from the outer gate to Sensoji’s second gate. Browse through a variety of traditional goods such as foldable fans, masks and accessories – definitely the best place to get souvenirs! You’ll also find snack stores selling traditional rice crackers (sen bei), ice-cream, honey-glazed sweet potato and more! Address: 1 Chome-20 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan Subway: Asakusa Station (Tobu Skytree/ Tokyo Metro Ginza/ Tsukuba Express line) – a 5 min walk from Asakusa Station/ Asakusa Station (Toei Subway Asakusa Line) – a 7 min walk Opening hours: 10am - 5pm daily 2 - Don Quijote Asakusa

Credit: @kelseyzoo on Instagram Also known as Donki, Don Quijote is probably one of the best discount stores in Japan. Whatever you want - from food, snacks, cosmetics, souvenirs, cooking ingredients, cosplay costume, fashion items, electronic, travel items - they have it! They have over 160 outlets in Japan and most of them open late, some even 24 hours like the Asakusa outlet. Ask the staff for the Muslim Corner too! There are plenty of halal snacks to buy for yourself or as souvenirs to bring home ? Address: 2 Chome-10 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan Subway: Two-minute walk from Exit 3A of Asakusa station Opening hours: 24 hours Website 3 - Ekimise Asakusa

Credit: @clarapeacher on Instagram A shopping mall and train station combination that was built in 1931! The building was refurbished in 2012 and is now one of the best shopping malls in Tokyo. Browse through high-end goods, cosmetics, electronics, fashion, and even a mini railway gallery on the fifth floor ? #HHWT tip: Head up to the rooftop for an awesome view of the Tokyo Skytree! Address: 1 Chome-4-1 Hanakawado, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0033, Japan Subway: Directly connected to "Asakusa Station" on Tobu Skytree Line, or 1 min. walk from Exit 7 of Asakusa Station on Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, or 3 min. walk from Exit A5 of Asakusa Station on Toei Asakusa Line Opening hours: 10am - 8pm daily 4 - Find unique kitchenware at Kappabashi

For the cooking and kitchenware enthusiast or if you just like to quirky and unique kitchen items, Kappabashi is the place to be! This shopping street is over 100 years old between Ueno and Asakusa is lined with dozens of specialized stores selling cooking trade items such as cooking utensils, stoves, tables, chairs, signs, lanterns, tables, chairs and uniforms! Address: 3 Chome-18-2 Matsugaya, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0036, Japan Subway: A few minutes walk from the Asakusa and Ueno districts. Ut can also be accessed by the Ginza Line; the closest subway station is Tawaramachi. Opening hours: most shops are open from 9am - 5pm Website And hey shopaholics, if that isn't enough for you there's always more to check out in our Tokyo Shopping Guide. SAVOUR DELICIOUS JAPANESE FOOD 1 - Eat authentic sushi at Sushiken Asakusa

Credit: @haruka0611o on Instagram We can never have enough sushi! Especially authentic Japanese sushi in Japan ? This sushi restaurant in Asakusa has very recently started serving dishes for Muslims! Sushi Ken creates every dish with only the finest ingredients and the freshest seafood ? If you’re a die-hard sushi fan, this is a restaurant you must not miss! Halal Status: Halal Certified (by Japan Halal Foundation) Contact: +81 03-5246-6547 Opening hours: Monday to Saturday – 11.30am to 4pm, 4pm to 11.30pm (last order at 11pm) Sunday, Public Holidays – 11.30am to 3pm, 3pm to 10pm (last order at 9.30pm) *Closes on 31st December yearly Address: 2 Chome-11-4, Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan Website 2 - Slurp down a bowl of hearty ramen at Naritaya

Credit: @anizaalfian87 on Instagram With the increasing number of halal ramen stalls in Japan, you’ll be glad to know that there are two to choose from in Asakusa! At Naritaya, you’ll be able to choose from three types of ramen: maze-soba (noodles separate from soup), zaru ramen (cold noodles) or the signature Asakusa Ramen. Instead of chashu (thinly sliced pork) which is usually found in ramen, Naritaya uses grilled chicken. Definitely, a place you mustn’t miss if you’re hoping to try authentic halal ramen! Halal status: halal meat available Address: Asakusa 2-7-13, Taito-ku, Tokyo, Japan 111-0032 Opening hours: Monday – Friday 11am -10pm, Weekends 9am – 9pm Facebook 3 - Mix it up with some western dishes at Sekai Cafe

Credit: @julct_foodjourney on Instagram Sekai Café is determined to serve everyone with any form of dietary restrictions from vegetarians to Muslims! Their menu is centred around fusion cuisines offering western style dishes such as burgers, sandwiches and even pizza. What’s more, they also have an extensive drinks menu which consists of refreshing beverages like yuzu soda and even some fruit-based frappes ? Halal status: uses halal ingredients, has a vegetarian menu too! Address: 1 Chome-18-8 Asakusa, Taito, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday 10:30AM to PM Friday and Saturday 10:30AM to 10PM Website | Facebook 4 - Have a takeaway bento box at Samurai Kitchen

Credit: @samurai.kitchen on Instagram From the founders of Sekai Cafe! Samurai Kitchen is a delivery service that delivers to most parts of Tokyo. This is especially convenient if you need a halal food delivery to your hotel, or even to picnic places to enjoy a good bento meal. Halal status: All menus are halal certified and no alcoholic drinks Address: 5 Chome-2-13 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan Opening hours: 9am - 5pm daily Website | Facebook | Instagram 5 - Have a fancy feast at Gonpachi Asakusa Azumabashi

Credit: @gonpachi_gd on Instagram Halal kobe beef and Sukiyaki? You'll definitely be down for this place. The ingredients are regionally sourced from fresh handmade soba noodles to tempura fried to crispy perfection. Savour their drool-worthy beef sets, enjoy fresh sashimi and crunch down on yummy tempura. #HHWT tip: The view from the second floor overlooks the Sumida river. Halal status: Halal meat available. Address: 〒111-0034 Tokyo, Taito City, Kaminarimon, 2 Chome−1−15 １F2F 中川ビル Japan Opening hours: 11.30am - 11pm daily Website | Instagram 6 - Savour authentic Wagyu beef at Yakiniku Panga

Credit: @halalpanga on Instagram Savour the finest of halal Japanese wagyu beef at Yakiniku Panga's second outlet - in Asakusa! Grill the meat as you like the taste the tender beef texture emphasized by the flavour of melted wagyu fat ? Halal status: Halal certified Address: 3 Chome-27-9 Taito, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0016, Japan Opening hours: 5pm - 10pm daily Website | Facebook 7 - End on a sweet note at Nanaya Suzukien Ice Cream Shop

Credit: @yokjp on Instagram Take your matcha love to the next level. It's fairly common to find matcha ice cream, even outside of Japan. But this place has 7 different levels of matcha ice cream from the lightest to the most intense matcha ice cream you'll ever taste. You can even see the difference in the ice cream's shade of green depending on the matcha intensity! Halal status: No meat products or alcohol in the ice cream Address: 3 Chome-4-3 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan Opening hours: 10.00am - 5pm daily Website | Facebook | Instagram 6 - Dig into a kebab at The Kebab Factory

Credit: @supermayu8 on Instagram When you're craving for non-Japanese food, drop by The Kebab Factory for some meaty kebabs! The chef is from Turkey so you know you'll get the real thing. Halal status: Halal certified Address: Japan, 〒111-0032 東京都台東区浅草１丁目１−１２第一屋ビル1階・地下1階 There's plenty of other food choices around Tokyo too. Check out our ultimate Tokyo Halal Food Guide for more yummy delicacies! PRAYER SPACES 1- Darul Arqam Masjid

Credit: @hiruhilmy on Instagram There are a few mosques in Tokyo if you ever need to drop by for a quick prayer. In the heart of Asakusa itself is Darul Arqam Masjid making it convenient to come by while exploring the town. Address: Japan, 〒111-0025 Tokyo, Taito City, 9, 東浅草1丁目9-12 Subway: 5 minutes drive from Asakusa Station 2 - Sekai Cafe

Credit: Agus Wahyudi on Facebook Aside from awesome delicacies, Sekai Cafe (as listed above) also has a prayer room. Just ask the staff and they show you the prayer room. 3 - Naritaya

Credit: Naritaya Asakusa 浅草麺亭成田屋 on Facebook Once you're done with that hearty bowl of delicious ramen at Naritaya (as listed above), you can perform a quick prayer too. Just ask the staff and they will show you where the prayer room is. P.S. Here are more of Tokyo's Attractions with nearby prayer spaces. And there you have it, your Muslim-Friendly guide to conquer the unique Asakusa ? Don't forget, there's plenty more to do around Tokyo too and you can easily explore them with our 6D5N itinerary. It's time you and that travel buddy of yours to start packing for your awesome Tokyo trip!

Beyond Senso-ji: A Muslim-Friendly Guide To Tokyo’s Asakusa Neighbourhood