Self Guided Walking Tour of Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa in Tokyo

Exploring the rich cultural heritage of Tokyo’s Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa neighborhood has never been easier. With a self-guided walking tour, visitors can enjoy the area’s history and traditions at their own pace. Utilizing an engaging mobile app, they’ll uncover the iconic Kaminarimon Gate, the bustling Nakamise shopping street, and the stunning architecture of the temple itself. Whether it’s a first-time visit or a return trip, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that goes beyond the typical sightseeing. But the real question is, what secrets and surprises await those who embark on this journey?

Key Points

• A self-guided walking tour of Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa with 32 engaging audio recordings narrated by a professional historian and 1-year access to explore at one’s own pace.
• The tour is accessible via a mobile app for iOS and Android with offline map and GPS navigation, allowing for an immersive experience for both first-time and returning visitors.
• The tour starts at the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, located in the heart of Asakusa, a popular tourist district, and accessible via public transportation.
• Highlights of the tour include the Senso-ji Temple, the oldest and most famous Buddhist temple in Tokyo, and the vibrant Asakusa neighborhood with traditional shops and eateries.
• The tour offers the flexibility to explore at one’s own pace, with the option to enter through the Kaminarimon Gate and follow the Nakamise shopping street.

Tour Overview

The self-guided walking tour of Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa in Tokyo, Japan provides users with a comprehensive 1-year access to explore this iconic cultural site at their own pace.

Narrated by a professional historian, the tour features 32 engaging audio recordings that bring the history and significance of Senso-ji to life.

Travelers can access the tour via a mobile app compatible with iOS and Android devices, complete with an offline map and GPS navigation for easy route following.

Whether visiting for the first time or revisiting, this tour offers an immersive, informative experience.

Getting to the Meeting Point

Getting to the meeting point at the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center is straightforward.

The center’s address is 2-chōme-18-9 Kaminarimon, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0034, Japan. It’s located right in the heart of Asakusa, a popular tourist district.

Visitors can easily access the meeting point via public transportation. The nearest subway station is Asakusa Station, just a short walk away.

Alternatively, travelers can take the iconic Asakusa Senso-ji Temple entrance – the Kaminarimon Gate – and follow the lively Nakamise shopping street to reach the information center.

With the offline map and GPS navigation, finding the starting point is a breeze.

Starting the Self-Guided Tour

Once participants arrive at the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, they can easily start the self-guided walking tour using the TouringBee mobile app.

The app provides a user-friendly interface to access the 32 audio recordings narrated by a professional historian. Travelers simply need to click the "Start Tour" button to begin their journey.

The offline map with GPS navigation ensures they can follow the route with ease, while the audio guide offers insightful commentary along the way.

With 1-year access, participants can enjoy the tour at their own pace and revisit the experience whenever they wish.

Highlights of the Senso-ji Temple

Towering over the Asakusa district, the magnificent Senso-ji Temple stands as Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple.

Built in the 7th century, it’s dedicated to the Bodhisattva Kannon, the goddess of mercy.

Visitors enter through the iconic Kaminarimon Gate, adorned with a colossal paper lantern.

Beyond lies the Nakamise shopping street, a bustling lane lined with traditional snack shops and souvenir stalls.

The temple’s main hall, the Hondo, impresses with its grand architecture and intricate carvings.

Don’t miss the chance to try the traditional omikuji fortune-telling slips and smell the incense wafting through the air.

Exploring the Asakusa Neighborhood

What else awaits visitors in the charming Asakusa neighborhood beyond the Senso-ji Temple? The area is a lively hub, with traditional shops and eateries lining Nakamise-dori.

Stroll along this bustling street, browsing for Japanese souvenirs, snacks, and street food. Stop for a steaming bowl of ramen or try an iconic taiyaki (fish-shaped cake).

Explore the vibrant Kaminarimon Gate and Asakusa Shrine, taking in the sights and sounds.

Don’t miss the stunning views from the Skytree Tower, the world’s tallest freestanding broadcast tower.

With its mix of history, culture, and modern attractions, Asakusa offers an authentic Tokyo experience.

Using the Offline Map and GPS Navigation

As participants begin their self-guided tour of Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa, they’ll find the offline map and GPS navigation in the TouringBee app to be invaluable tools. The map provides a clear overview of the area, while the GPS tracking ensures they never lose their way. With just a tap, the app will guide them through the winding streets, pointing out key landmarks and attractions along the route.

Feature	Benefit
Offline Map	No data required, works anywhere
GPS Navigation	Pinpoint location and follow the route
Points of Interest	Learn about key sites as you go
Hands-Free Exploration	Focus on the sights, not directions
Customizable Pace	Take breaks or linger as desired

The self-guided nature of this tour allows participants to explore Senso-ji and Asakusa at their own pace, with the confidence that the app will keep them on track.

Tour Duration and Accessibility

The self-guided walking tour of Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa is designed to be accessible for most travelers, with a duration that can be tailored to individual preferences.

The tour doesn’t require any entry fees and can be completed at your own pace. While it’s not wheelchair accessible, the routes are suitable for the average traveler.

With 32 audio recordings narrated by a professional historian, you can learn about the history and significance of the sites as you explore.

The tour is available for one year, so you can revisit it at your convenience.

Cancellation and Booking Policies

If you need to cancel your tour, you can do so up to 24 hours before the experience starts without incurring any fees.

This flexible cancellation policy gives you the freedom to adjust your plans if needed. Plus, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, which makes it easier to plan your trip.

The tour also has a lowest price guarantee, so you can be confident you’re getting the best deal.

Whether you’re just starting to plan your Tokyo adventure or need to make last-minute changes, the convenient booking options make it a breeze.

Since You Asked

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, you can take photos during the tour. The tour allows participants to capture the stunning architecture, vibrant markets, and cultural highlights at their own pace as they explore the area with the provided audio guide.

Is the Tour Available in Multiple Languages?

Yes, the tour is available in multiple languages. The audio guide can be accessed through a mobile app and provides 32 recordings narrated by a professional historian in your preferred language.

Are There Any Discounts for Seniors or Students?

The tour doesn’t offer any specific discounts for seniors or students, but the starting price of $7.34 per person is already quite reasonable. Participants can explore the historic sites at their own pace without breaking the bank.

Can I Extend the Tour Access Beyond 1 Year?

Unfortunately, the tour access is limited to 1 year and can’t be extended. However, you can always revisit the experience using the TouringBee app within that time frame to explore Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa at your own pace.

What Is the Refund Policy if I’m Not Satisfied?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, so you can get a full refund if you’re not satisfied. You won’t be locked into the 1-year access if it doesn’t meet your needs.

The Sum Up

The Self-Guided Walking Tour of Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa is an immersive way to explore Tokyo’s rich history. With engaging audio narration and GPS navigation, visitors can discover the iconic Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise shopping street, and stunning Senso-ji architecture at their own pace. Whether you’re a first-time or returning traveler, this tour offers an authentic and memorable experience.