Asakusa: The Heartbeat of Traditional Tokyo

• Helloこんにちは
  [Konnichiwa]
• Goodbyeさようなら
  [Sayonara]
• Yesはい
  [Hai]
• Noいいえ
  [Iie]
• Please/You're welcomeどうぞ
  [Douzo]
• Thank youありがとう
  [Arigatou]
• Excuse me/Sorryすみません
  [Sumimasen]
• How are you?お元気ですか？
  [Ogenki desu ka?]
• Fine. And you?元気です。あなたは？
  [Genki desu. Anata wa?]
• Do you speak English?英語を話せますか？
  [Eigo o hanasemasu ka?]
• I don't understandわかりません
  [Wakarimasen]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseメニューを見せていただきたいのですが
  [Menyuu o misete itadakitai no desu ga]
• I don't eat meat肉は食べません
  [Niku wa tabemasen]
• Cheers!乾杯！
  [Kanpai!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseお会計をお願いします
  [Okaikei o onegaishimasu]

• Help!助けて！
  [Tasukete!]
• Go away!行ってください！
  [Itte kudasai!]
• Call the Police!警察を呼んでください！
  [Keisatsu o yonde kudasai!]
• Call a doctor!医者を呼んでください！
  [Isha o yonde kudasai!]
• I'm lost道に迷っています
  [Michi ni mayotte imasu]
• I'm ill具合が悪いです
  [Guai ga warui desu]

• I'd like to buy...買いたいです
  [Kaitai desu]
• I'm just looking見てるだけです
  [Miteru dake desu]
• How much is it?いくらですか？
  [Ikura desu ka?]
• That's too expensiveそれは高すぎます
  [Sore wa takasugimasu]
• Can you lower the price?値段を下げていただけますか？
  [Nedan o sagete itadakemasu ka?]

• What time is it?今何時ですか？
  [Ima nanji desu ka?]
• It's one o'clock一時です
  [Ichi-ji desu]
• Half past (10)10時半
  [Juu-ji han]
• Morning朝
  [Asa]
• Afternoon午後
  [Gogo]
• Evening夜
  [Yoru]
• Yesterday昨日
  [Kinou]
• Today今日
  [Kyou]
• Tomorrow明日
  [Ashita]
• 1一
  [Ichi]
• 2二
  [Ni]
• 3三
  [San]
• 4四
  [Shi]
• 5五
  [Go]
• 6六
  [Roku]
• 7七
  [Nana]
• 8八
  [Hachi]
• 9九
  [Kyu]
• 10十
  [Juu]

• Where's a/the...?…はどこですか？
  [... wa doko desu ka?]
• What's the address?住所は何ですか？
  [Jusho wa nan desu ka?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?地図で見せていただけますか？
  [Chizu de misete itadakemasu ka?]
• When's the next (bus)?次の（バス）はいつですか？
  [Tsugi no (basu) wa itsu desu ka?]
• A ticket (to ....)（…）のチケットをください
  [(...) no chiketto o kudasai]

Asakusa's history dates back to the Edo period (1603-1868) when it was a flourishing entertainment district. The area became known for its vibrant culture, including kabuki theaters, traditional shops, and geisha houses, attracting both locals and visitors. The establishment of Senso-ji, Tokyo's oldest temple, in 628 AD marked a significant turning point, as it became a focal point for pilgrims and tourists alike.

Senso-ji Temple, dedicated to the Buddhist goddess Kannon, has been a pivotal religious site since its founding. The temple's iconic Kaminarimon Gate, built in 942 AD, serves as a grand entrance to the temple grounds. The temple's architecture and festivals symbolize the rich spiritual heritage of the Asakusa area, drawing millions of visitors yearly.

During the Edo period, Asakusa became synonymous with entertainment, with the establishment of the Yoshiwara district, renowned for its pleasure quarters. The area was also home to popular festivals, such as the Sanja Matsuri, which celebrates the founding of Senso-ji and continues to be a vibrant part of Asakusa's cultural identity today.

The Meiji era (1868-1912) brought significant changes to Asakusa, as Japan underwent rapid modernization. The Taisho era (1912-1926) saw the introduction of Western culture, which influenced the arts and entertainment available in Asakusa. The area became famous for its theaters, including the Asakusa Opera, and new forms of entertainment like cinema emerged.

After World War II, Asakusa faced destruction but demonstrated resilience in rebuilding its cultural landmarks. The 1950s and 1960s saw the revival of traditional festivals and the preservation of Senso-ji. The area became a symbol of cultural continuity amidst Japan's rapid post-war development, maintaining its status as a tourist destination.

Today, Asakusa is a vibrant neighborhood where traditional culture coexists with modern influences. Visitors can explore the historic streets, enjoy local cuisine, and participate in festivals while appreciating contemporary attractions like Tokyo Skytree. Asakusa remains a testament to Tokyo's rich history, showcasing the enduring legacy of its past.

Asakusa is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Tokyo. The area is served by the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and the Toei Asakusa Line. From Shibuya, you can take the Ginza Line directly to Asakusa, which takes about 30 minutes. From Shinjuku, take the Toei Shinjuku Line to Bakuroyokoyama Station, then transfer to the Toei Asakusa Line. Alternatively, the JR Yamanote Line can take you to Ueno Station, from which you can take the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line to Asakusa.

Asakusa is best explored on foot, as many of its attractions are within walking distance of each other. The area is also served by several bus routes and is bicycle-friendly, with rental shops available. For those who prefer public transport, the Toei Bus network connects Asakusa to surrounding neighborhoods, while the Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway systems provide easy access to other parts of the city.

Asakusa is generally a safe neighborhood for tourists. However, like in any major city, it is advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, particularly near popular attractions like Senso-ji Temple. It is best to avoid poorly lit streets at night and keep an eye on personal belongings.

In case of emergency, dial 110 for police assistance or 119 for fire and medical emergencies. The nearest hospital is the Asakusa Hospital, located a short distance from Senso-ji Temple. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, and pharmacies are available throughout Asakusa for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing or inappropriate clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs; when entering temples, remove your shoes and refrain from taking photos in restricted areas. Public Transport: Do be courteous; offer your seat to the elderly or those in need. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a bow and a smile; it's a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like melon bread and tempura. Don't waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Asakusa like a local, visit the traditional street markets such as Nakamise Street for snacks and souvenirs. Engage in a rickshaw ride for a unique view of the area and its history. Check local schedules for traditional festivals, such as the Sanja Matsuri in May. For a quieter experience, visit the lesser-known temples around Asakusa, such as the Imado Shrine, which is dedicated to matchmaking.