Nakamise-dōri (仲見世通り) is the name of the shopping street leading to the famous Sensoji Temple in Asakusa. The giant red lantern in the distance is part of the Kaminarimon (雷門), which sit at each end of Nakamise-dōri and serve as an impressive entrance to Senjoji Temple.

The origins of Nakamise-dōri date back as far as 250 years, however as with many of Tokyo’s historical attractions, this area was affected heavily by the Great Kantō earthquake in 1923 and then again by the bombings in World War II.

The shops along Nakamise-dōri are littered with the usual Japanese souvenirs plus several vendors selling interesting traditional snacks and even Oppai Pudding!

I shot this with my arms at full stretch above my head to (hopefully) get the full sense of how crowded it was and was thankful one of the several I took were actually usable. ^_^

If you’re ever in Tokyo make sure you get out to Asakusa as there is plenty to see and do including Sumida River cruises, Kappabashi-dori (kitchen-wares street), Hanayashiki (an old carnival with rides), Asahi Breweries Building designed by Philippe Stark and of course the Sensoji Temple and much more.

Nakamise-dōri, Asakusa: Photo Location

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