Asakusa & Ueno

Tokyo's oldest temple, founded in 645 AD after two fishermen netted a golden statue of Kannon (Goddess of Mercy) from the Sumida River. The Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) with its massive red lantern is Tokyo's most photographed landmark. Nakamise-dori, the 250-meter approach street, has been selling snacks and souvenirs since the Edo period. The temple was completely destroyed in the 1945 firebombing of Tokyo and rebuilt in 1958. Despite being a reconstruction, it remains the spiritual heart of Asakusa and draws 30 million visitors annually.

Visit at dawn before the crowds — the temple grounds open at 6 AM and the light through the gates is magical. Nakamise's senbei (rice crackers) are grilled fresh.

A 250-meter shopping street leading to Senso-ji, one of Japan's oldest shopping streets with origins in the early 18th century when shopkeepers were granted permission to set up stalls along the temple approach. Around 90 shops sell traditional crafts, Edo-period sweets, and souvenirs. Must-try treats include freshly made ningyo-yaki (cake filled with red bean paste), kaminari-okoshi (puffed rice crackers that gave the Thunder Gate its name), and melon pan. The shops maintain traditional wooden facades and many have been run by the same families for generations.

Try the age-manju (deep-fried sweet buns) at the shop near the temple end. The side streets off Nakamise, especially Denpoin-dori, have more authentic craft shops.