If You Buy in Asakusa, This Is It! Recommended Souvenir Guide

If you’re choosing souvenirs in Asakusa, reading this article will ensure you don’t miss out. Covering standard items, limited editions, recommendations by gender and age, must-visit spots, and more, you’ll enjoy selecting the perfect gift to conclude your sightseeing. If you’re unsure, start by checking this guide.

1. Tips and Enjoyment of Souvenir Selection in Asakusa

1.1 What Makes a Perfect Souvenir to End Your Sightseeing

To carry home the lingering memories of strolling through Asakusa, choosing the right souvenir is a key factor that influences your overall satisfaction with the trip. Holding items that symbolize Asakusa enhances your memories vividly. Especially, souvenirs with a storytelling aspect that reflect the atmosphere of Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Street, and interactions with people, will become a bridge to the scenery of your journey for the recipient as well.

Souvenirs are not just purchases but should be selected as part of the experience in Asakusa. Focusing on the story behind the items, such as conversations with shop owners or the ambiance of the store, allows for a more meaningful and special selection.

1.2 Tips for Choosing Traditional Souvenirs with a Japanese Atmosphere

Asakusa is a hub of tradition and culture, with streets that retain the Edo atmosphere and elements of Japanese style. Choosing items that carry this ambiance as souvenirs will be appreciated. Recommended items that evoke a sense of “wa” include the following:

Type of Souvenir	Features	Recommended Points
Wagashi (Japanese Sweets)	Beautiful appearance, many long-established shops	Perfect as tea accompaniments. Also appreciated by seniors
Tenugui (Japanese Hand Towels)	Variety of patterns, high practicality	Popular as seasonal and tasteful gifts
Folk Crafts	Many unique items by artisans	Popular with foreigners. Creates a Japanese space just by displaying

When selecting traditional souvenirs, paying attention not only to appearance but also to materials and the craftsmanship’s dedication can lead to more valuable choices. In Asakusa, where many old shops and workshops are scattered, enjoying conversations with shop owners and learning their background is also one of the attractions.

1.3 Check Spots Where You Can Buy Asakusa’s Specialty Products in Advance

To efficiently obtain souvenirs that represent Asakusa, prior research is essential. Popular items may sell out by evening, so checking store locations and hours via map apps or sightseeing websites is convenient.

Asakusa has concentrated areas suitable for souvenir hunting, such as:

Area Name	Features	Main Souvenirs
Nakamise Street	Shops lining the approach to Senso-ji Temple	Kaminari-okoshi (thunder rice crackers), ningyo-yaki (small cakes), Japanese accessories, fans, etc.
Denpoin Street	Gathering of crafts shops showcasing artisan skills	Japanese miscellaneous goods, tenugui, Imado ware, candy art, etc.
Rokku Broadway Area	Area with traditional downtown atmosphere	Retro toys, character goods

Depending on where you buy, the type and atmosphere of souvenirs change, so comparing shops even for the same item can lead to interesting discoveries. Also, using tourist maps and the official Asakusa Tourism Federation website to plan an efficient route is recommended.

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2. Classic Popular! Recommended Souvenirs Representing Asakusa

When visiting Asakusa, you should definitely pick up the long-loved classic souvenirs. Items appreciated across generations not only add color to your travel memories but also warm your connections with others. Here, we introduce famous souvenirs that have been loved in Asakusa for many years.

2.1 Kaminari-okoshi: The Classic Souvenir of Asakusa

The “Kaminari-okoshi” named after the famous Kaminarimon Gate is known as a representative confectionery of Asakusa. Its light texture and fragrant flavor are characteristic, making it a standard souvenir for tourists visiting Asakusa. Nowadays, variations such as peanut, black sesame, and matcha flavors are available, allowing choices according to age and preference.

The long-established “Tokiwa-do Kaminari-okoshi Honpo” shop, with a history dating back to the Edo period, offers elegant packaging with Japanese patterns. It ranges from small bags suitable for casual gifting to wooden boxes for presents, making it versatile for different purposes.

2.2 Ningyo-yaki: Cute and Delicious Asakusa Sweets

Ningyo-yaki are small baked sweets filled with smooth red bean paste, shaped to resemble Asakusa symbols like Kaminarimon and the Five-Story Pagoda. Their gentle flavor and attractive appearance make them loved by many.

Famous shop “Kimura-ya Honten” offers freshly baked ones on-site, perfect for walking and tasting. With a shelf life of several days, they are ideal for both souvenirs and home use. The retro design of the packaging is also popular among foreign tourists.

2.3 Amezaiku: Artful Candy Craft That Looks Like Artworks

Skilled artisans create amezaiku by hand, making it a traditional souvenir unique to Asakusa. Crafted into detailed shapes like rabbits, goldfish, and zodiac signs, they resemble glass crafts in beauty. Many display them as ornaments, and they are also recommended as gifts that surprise and delight.

“Asakusa Amezaiku Ame-shin” is a representative shop where you can watch artisans perform live candy craft demonstrations. The process of quickly shaping transparent candy with color is a true display of craftsmanship. Inside the showcase, you can see lively amezaiku figures that seem almost alive.

2.4 Imado Ware: Bring Home Traditional Craftsmanship of Asakusa

Imado ware is a type of pottery born in the Imado district of Asakusa, boasting a 1200-year history as a traditional craft of Tokyo. The “beckoning cat” is especially famous as a lucky charm that brings happiness, and it is also attracting attention as a “matchmaking beckoning cat” at Imado Shrine, deeply connected with Senso-ji Temple.

Imado ware’s beckoning cats are handmade by traditional artisans, with each piece having a unique expression and color, making choosing fun. They are not only good luck charms but also popular souvenirs for overseas friends.

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3. Stylish Souvenirs That Women Will Love in Asakusa

3.1 Japanese Modern & Traditional Goods: Unique Finds at Matsuzoya Asakusa and Nakamise Street

At Matsuzoya Asakusa, you can find a variety of practical and stylish goods, including tableware, fabric accessories, and stationery, from long-established shops and emerging brands that shine with Asakusa’s charm. Along Nakamise Street, there are tenugui, coin purses, and other Japanese accessories, all full of cuteness that makes carrying them around enjoyable.

Product Name	Features	Examples of Stores
Tenugui	Beautifully dyed with traditional techniques. Seasonal designs available.	Fujiyaya, Kamawanu, etc.
Gamaguchi Pouch	Perfect for wallets and small items. Popular for Japanese patterns and lace.	Nakamise souvenir shops

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4. Popular Among Men! Cool and Stylish Souvenirs from Asakusa

4.1 Leather Goods: Kuramae Leather Craft Brands

Just a short walk from Asakusa, the Kuramae area is gaining attention as a town of leather craft that combines Japanese craftsmanship with modern design. Popular souvenirs for men include handmade leather wallets, key cases, and cardholders made in this area. Each product reflects the artisan’s dedication and texture, and they develop a richer character over time with use.

4.2 Edo Kiriko: Traditional Beauty Suitable for Adult Men

Edo Kiriko, known for its exquisite cuts and light refraction, is an ideal gift for men, combining sophistication and elegance. Many traditional workshops remain near Asakusa, where you can find hand-crafted glasses and sake vessels from “Horiguchi Kiriko” and “Edo Kiriko Cooperative Association Members.”

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5. Recommended Shopping Spots in Nakamise and Denpoin Streets

5.1 Nakamise Street: Treasure Trove of Asakusa Souvenirs

Running from Kaminarimon to the main hall of Senso-ji Temple, “Nakamise Street” is a traditional shopping street about 250 meters long, offering a variety of Asakusa-style souvenirs. With over 90 shops, it has been serving visitors since the Edo period, offering a wide range of items including Japanese sweets, foods, folk crafts, and miscellaneous goods.

5.2 Denpoin Street: Spot for Artisan Crafts and Traditional Goods

Extending eastward from the middle of Nakamise Street, “Denpoin Street” retains a strong Edo atmosphere and is known for traditional crafts and Japanese miscellaneous goods where craftsmanship shines. The street’s name comes from the nearby Denpoin, a sub-temple of Senso-ji.

This street features shops specializing in Edo Kiriko, chirimen crafts, lanterns, fans, and chopstick stores, offering practical souvenirs for daily use. Many craft shops allow direct interaction with artisans, providing opportunities to learn about the making process or participate in workshops, which is highly appreciated.

5.3 Sushi-ya Street: Hidden Stylish Souvenir Shops

Located slightly off the main street, “Sushi-ya Street” is an emerging shopping spot gaining attention recently. Named after the many sushi restaurants that once lined the area, it now features modern Japanese-style miscellaneous goods, cafes, and unique gift shops.

Name	Features	Main Products	Recommended Points
Nakamise Street	Longest-standing souvenir street since Edo era	Japanese sweets, lucky charms, T-shirts, fans	Good access, diverse genres, enjoyable sightseeing atmosphere
Denpoin Street	Street of craftsmanship with artisan skills	Edo Kiriko, chopsticks, fans, chirimen accessories	Interact with artisans, cultural experience shopping
Sushi-ya Street	Quiet, stylish hidden spot	Japanese accessories, aroma products, coin purses, stationery	For avoiding crowds, emphasizing originality

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6. Popular Souvenirs for Foreign Tourists in Asakusa

6.1 Ukiyo-e Goods and Japanese Pattern Items

Ukiyo-e, evoking the Edo atmosphere, is a very attractive motif for foreign travelers. Specialty stores around Senso-ji and Nakamise Street offer a wide range of goods featuring works by Katsushika Hokusai, Kitagawa Utamaro, and others. Recommended items include postcards, notepads, T-shirts with ukiyo-e prints, as well as practical items like furoshiki and tenugui that can be incorporated into daily life.

6.2 Products with English Packaging and Instructions

Products with English labels or leaflets make it easier and more reassuring for foreign tourists to purchase. Long-established sweets like Kaminari-okoshi and Imo-yokan often include English explanations, making them more accessible. Items such as Japanese tea, chopsticks, washi paper products, and scented Japanese candles often come with descriptions of their origins and usage, deepening cultural understanding and interest.

6.3 Packaged Foods and Goods Designed for Inbound Tourists

Items with specially designed packaging for overseas travelers are attractive as authentic souvenirs. In Asakusa, many products feature beautiful “wa”-inspired wrapping, with Japanese and English descriptions on sweets and miscellaneous goods. Especially popular are limited-edition green tea cans featuring Tokyo Skytree and Kaminarimon, which have a strong visual impact.

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9. Choosing Souvenirs in Asakusa by Budget

○ Up to 500 Yen: Perfect for Small Gifts and Giveaways

• Kaminari 5656 Manju: Small, cute, and available in many varieties.
• Kaminari-okoshi (Mini Size): Light, long shelf life, easy to buy in bulk.
• Japanese Pattern Pocket Tissue Case: A small Japanese accessory.
• Dagashi Assortment: Nostalgic candies packed in a set.

○ 500 Yen to 1,500 Yen: Everyday Use Japanese Goods and Sweets

• Ningyo-yaki (Boxed): Shapes of Kaminarimon and the Five-Story Pagoda enhance Asakusa mood.
• Imado Ware Small Plates: Traditional craft of Asakusa.
• Set of Small Plates and Chopstick Rests: Small items that enhance Japanese dining atmosphere.
• Modern Japanese Pattern Furoshiki: Popular among eco-conscious and sustainable-minded people.

○ Over 1,500 Yen: Luxurious and Special Souvenirs

• Edo Kiriko: Delicate and beautiful cut glassware.
• Custom Amezaiku Orders: One-of-a-kind souvenirs crafted live by artisans.
• Leather Coin Case (Kuramae Brand): High-quality leather with meticulous stitching.

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10. Summary

Souvenirs from Asakusa offer a charming mix of tradition and playfulness, making them perfect expressions of thoughtfulness for loved ones. The lively shops on Nakamise Street, the refined craftsmanship of Denpoin Street, and regional specialties like Imado ware and Edo Kiriko all provide the joy of discovering unique items. Choosing according to purpose and recipient will deepen the lingering memories of your trip.