Enjoy Autumn in Asakusa! Recommended Food Walk & Momiji Model Course with Kimono
Considering a trip to Asakusa this autumn? With its pleasant climate, autumn is the perfect season for a walk in a kimono. This article provides a comprehensive guide to Asakusa’s autumn charms, from top spots for viewing autumn foliage like Senso-ji Temple to seasonal food unique to fall, such as sweets made with sweet potato and chestnuts, and traditional events like the Tori no Ichi fair. We’ve also included a recommended itinerary for exploring the area in a kimono, so you can spend an unforgettable day here.
1. Why Autumn Is the Best Time to Visit Asakusa
Autumn, after the lively summer crowds and before the quiet of winter, is the ideal time to fully experience the charm of Asakusa. The pleasant weather, the colorful autumn leaves that decorate the historic streets, and the delicious seasonal foods are just some of the special reasons to visit during this time.
1.1 Perfect Weather for a Kimono Stroll
The autumn weather in Asakusa is mild and pleasant, with the intense summer heat giving way to gentle sunshine. This makes it comfortable to walk around for long periods. It’s an especially perfect season for a graceful stroll in a kimono, as you won’t have to worry about sweating.
To give you an idea of what to expect, here are the average temperatures for Tokyo in autumn:
| Month | Average Temperature |
| September | 23.9°C (75.0°F) |
| October | 18.5°C (65.3°F) |
| November | 12.5°C (54.5°F) |
Source: Japan Meteorological Agency Past Weather Data Search (Tokyo average 1991-2020) Mornings and evenings can be a little chilly, so bringing a light jacket or shawl will help you stay comfortable.
1.2 The Beautiful Contrast of Old Tokyo and Autumn Foliage
Asakusa’s charm lies in its historic downtown atmosphere, which has been preserved since the Edo period. In autumn, this landscape is enhanced by vibrant red and yellow foliage. The contrast between the brilliant red of Senso-ji Temple’s main hall and the golden yellow of the ginkgo leaves is breathtaking. A walk down Nakamise-dori with its tiled roofs or through the backstreets will make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time.
1.3 A Season Full of Autumn-Exclusive Sweets and Snacks
Autumn is the season of harvest, and Asakusa offers a bounty of seasonal treats. Many historic shops and specialty stores sell delicious snacks made with autumn flavors like sweet potato and chestnuts. From piping hot daigaku imo (candied sweet potatoes) to elegant sweet potato paste and fragrant chestnut confections, there are many unique treats to enjoy.
2. Top 5 Spots for Autumn Foliage in Asakusa
Asakusa’s historic streets are painted with beautiful autumn colors. The combination of historic buildings and vibrant trees creates a unique landscape. Here are five of the best spots to enjoy the autumn leaves during your visit.
2.1 Senso-ji Temple: Golden Ginkgo and the Five-Story Pagoda
Senso-ji Temple, a symbol of Asakusa, is one of Tokyo’s premier autumn foliage spots. The large ginkgo tree near the Hozomon Gate turns a stunning golden yellow, and the contrast with the brilliant red Five-Story Pagoda is breathtaking. The trees throughout the temple grounds enhance the historic buildings, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
| Senso-ji Temple – Basic Information | |
| Location | 2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo |
| Access | Approx. 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station on various lines |
| Best Time to Visit | Mid-November to early December |
| Official Website | Senso-ji Temple |
2.2 Sumida Park: Tokyo Skytree and Autumn Colors
Stretching along the Sumida River, Sumida Park is famous for its cherry blossoms, but its trees also turn into beautiful autumn colors. The park’s main attraction is the view of the modern Tokyo Skytree in the background, a striking contrast with the traditional autumn foliage. You can also enjoy the scenery reflected on the river or admire the view from a traditional houseboat.
| Sumida Park – Basic Information | |
| Location | 1-1 Hanakawado, 7-1 Asakusa, 2-1 Hanakawado, Taito-ku, Tokyo |
| Access | Approx. 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station on various lines |
| Best Time to Visit | Late November to early December |
2.3 Denpoin Temple Garden: A Serene, Hidden Garden
Next to Denpoin Temple, the head temple of Senso-ji, is a beautiful strolling garden. It is usually closed to the public but opens for a special viewing period in autumn. The meticulously maintained garden offers a quiet retreat from the city, allowing you to enjoy the autumn colors in peaceful solitude.
| Denpoin Temple Garden – Basic Information | |
| Location | 2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo (inside the Senso-ji Temple grounds) |
| Access | Approx. 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station on various lines |
| Best Time to Visit | Late November to early December (only during the special viewing period) |
2.4 Matsuchiyama Shoden: A Hidden Gem for Autumn Foliage
Located a little way from the hustle of Senso-ji Temple, Matsuchiyama Shoden is perfect for those who want to enjoy the autumn atmosphere in a quiet setting. The small temple grounds are adorned with beautiful ginkgo and maple trees. Situated on a small hill overlooking the Sumida River, it’s a great little-known spot to visit during your walk.
| Matsuchiyama Shoden – Basic Information | |
| Location | 7-4-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo |
| Access | Approx. 10-minute walk from Asakusa Station on various lines |
| Best Time to Visit | Mid-November to early December |
| Official Website | Matsuchiyama Shoden |
2.5 Otori Shrine: Autumn Scenery at the Tori no Ichi Fair
Otori Shrine, famous for its Tori no Ichi fair in November, is another great spot to enjoy autumn. On the days of the fair, the shrine grounds are filled with people praying for business prosperity. The festive energy of the event combined with the autumn foliage creates a unique atmosphere you can only experience in Asakusa during this time.
| Otori Shrine – Basic Information | |
| Location | 3-18-7 Senzoku, Taito-ku, Tokyo |
| Access | Approx. 7-minute walk from Iriya Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line |
| Best Time to Visit | Mid-November to early December |
| Official Website | Asakusa Otori Shrine |
〈Next page〉
Kimono Rental in Asakusa to Enhance Your Autumn Experience



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