Beyond the iconic Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa is a culinary playground waiting to be explored, offering a taste of Tokyo’s rich history with every bite. This district, nestled in the heart of Tokyo, is more than just a historical landmark; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of tradition, modernity, and, most importantly, incredible food. From the enticing aromas wafting from Nakamise-dori’s street food stalls to the refined flavors of its established restaurants, Asakusa promises an unforgettable gastronomic journey. This guide will navigate you through the must-try food in Asakusa, revealing the culinary gems that make this area a paradise for food lovers.
The Alluring World of Asakusa Street Food
No visit to Asakusa is complete without immersing yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Nakamise-dori, the street leading up to Senso-ji Temple. Here, you’ll find a dazzling array of street food in Asakusa, each a miniature representation of Japanese culinary artistry. Prepare your senses for an explosion of flavors and textures as you embark on this delightful adventure.
Agemanju: A Deep-Fried Delight
One of the most popular treats on Nakamise-dori is agemanju, a deep-fried manju (a sweet bean-jam filled bun). Several vendors offer this tempting snack, each with their own variations. What sets agemanju apart is its crispy exterior, achieved through the deep-frying process, which contrasts beautifully with the soft, sweet bean paste filling. Some shops even offer a variety of fillings, from the traditional red bean to matcha, custard, or even sesame, adding an element of surprise to each bite. The warm, satisfying crunch and the sweet, comforting filling make agemanju the perfect fuel for your exploration of Asakusa.
Kaminari Okoshi: A Taste of Tradition
Another essential Nakamise-dori experience is sampling kaminari okoshi, a traditional Japanese rice cracker snack. This unique confection is made from puffed rice, peanuts, and a sweet syrup, creating a crunchy, slightly chewy texture and a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. Kaminari Okoshi has a long history in Asakusa, dating back to the Edo period, and it continues to be a beloved treat for locals and tourists alike. You’ll find established shops along Nakamise-dori that specialize in okoshi, often offering a variety of flavors and textures. It’s a perfect souvenir to take home, encapsulating the taste of traditional Asakusa.
Ningyo-yaki: Miniature Cakes of Delight
These adorable, small sponge cakes, known as ningyo-yaki, are another popular food in Asakusa that you should definitely try. They are usually filled with red bean paste and are often shaped like dolls, animals, or other figures. You’ll find vendors along Nakamise-dori preparing these cakes fresh in cast-iron molds. Watching the ningyo-yaki being made is almost as enjoyable as eating them. Their small size and cute shapes make them an ideal on-the-go snack, perfect for enjoying as you wander through the vibrant streets of Asakusa. The soft, slightly sweet cake and the smooth red bean filling create a comforting and satisfying treat.
Stepping away from the main thoroughfare of Nakamise-dori reveals even more exciting street food discoveries.
Menchi-Katsu: A Savory Sensation
For a more substantial snack, seek out menchi-katsu, a deep-fried minced meat cutlet. You can usually find them near the temple grounds or on the quieter side streets. The crispy, golden-brown exterior gives way to a juicy, flavorful meat filling, making menchi-katsu a truly satisfying treat. The savory flavors and satisfying crunch make it a popular choice for those looking for a quick and tasty lunch or snack.
Imo Youkan: Subtle Sweetness
Another treasure to discover is the Imo Youkan. It is a traditional japanese sweets made of sweet potato. One of the shops to look for it is Funawa. Its smooth texture and not overly sweet taste makes a perfect match.
Exploring Asakusa’s Culinary Institutions
Beyond the captivating street food scene, Asakusa boasts a rich culinary landscape of established restaurants, each specializing in traditional Japanese dishes prepared with time-honored techniques and the finest ingredients.
Tempura: A Light and Crispy Art Form
Tempura, the art of deep-frying seafood and vegetables in a light, delicate batter, is elevated to new heights in Asakusa. Daikokuya Tempura, for example, is a well-regarded establishment where you can experience tempura prepared with meticulous care. The price range reflects the quality and expertise on display. When ordering, consider trying the shrimp tempura, renowned for its succulent flavor and perfect crispness. The anago (conger eel) tempura is another must-try, offering a unique and delicate taste. The combination of the light, airy batter and the fresh, flavorful ingredients creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Unagi: The Exquisite Flavor of Eel
Unagi, or grilled eel, is a delicacy that is particularly well-regarded in Asakusa. The eel is typically served over rice with a sweet and savory sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Numerous unagi restaurants in Asakusa offer this exquisite dish, each with its own unique preparation and sauce recipe. Prices can be on the higher end, reflecting the quality of the eel and the skill required to prepare it perfectly. When visiting an unagi restaurant, unadon (eel over rice) is a classic choice, while kabayaki (grilled eel) offers a more direct taste of the eel’s rich flavor.
Dojo Nabe: A Culinary Adventure
For a truly unique and adventurous culinary experience, try dojo nabe, a hot pot featuring small loach fish. This dish is a specialty of Asakusa and is not for the faint of heart. Komagata Dojo is a famous spot for this dish. The dojo nabe set typically includes the hot pot itself, along with various condiments and side dishes. The loach fish are cooked in a flavorful broth and are traditionally eaten by dipping them in soy sauce and scallions. This dish is an acquired taste, but it offers a fascinating glimpse into Asakusa’s culinary history and a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Soba/Udon: Noodles of Tradition
Soba and Udon are traditional japanese noodles that can be eaten either hot or cold. Owariya is a restaurant located in the Sensoji Temple and has served soba and udon for a century. Whether hot or cold, you can enjoy the delicious noodles. When you visit Owariya, you should try the Zaru Soba or Kake Udon.
Sweet Endings: Asakusa’s Dessert Delights
After exploring the savory side of Asakusa, indulge your sweet tooth with the district’s delightful dessert offerings.
Anmitsu: A Symphony of Textures and Flavors
Anmitsu is a traditional Japanese dessert that combines a variety of textures and flavors in one harmonious bowl. It typically consists of agar jelly, sweet bean paste, fruit, and mochi (rice cakes). Numerous shops in Asakusa specialize in anmitsu, each offering its own unique variations and toppings. The colorful presentation and the diverse range of flavors make anmitsu a refreshing and satisfying end to any meal.
Kakigori: Cool Down with Shaved Ice
During the warmer months, kakigori, or Japanese shaved ice, is a must-try treat in Asakusa. The finely shaved ice is topped with flavored syrups, creating a refreshing and flavorful dessert. Numerous shops in Asakusa offer kakigori, often with a wide variety of syrup flavors and toppings to choose from.
Taiyaki: Lucky Fish Cakes
Taiyaki are fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet bean paste or other fillings. You can find these at Taiyaki Kobo Kurikoan. They are freshly made and are perfect treat.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Asakusa Food Adventure
To fully immerse yourself in the Asakusa food scene, consider these helpful tips.
Timing is Key: Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. Be aware of seasonal festivals, as they can draw large crowds and may affect the availability of certain food items.
Cash is Your Friend: Many smaller vendors and stalls in Asakusa prefer cash payments, so be sure to have enough on hand.
Respect Local Customs: Familiarize yourself with basic Japanese dining etiquette, such as not sticking chopsticks upright in your rice bowl.
Learn a Few Phrases: Knowing a few essential Japanese phrases for ordering food and asking for recommendations can enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
A Culinary Journey Awaits
Asakusa’s food in Asakusa scene is a captivating blend of tradition and innovation, offering a tantalizing array of flavors and experiences. From the bustling street food stalls of Nakamise-dori to the refined atmosphere of its established restaurants, Asakusa promises an unforgettable gastronomic adventure. So, the next time you’re in Tokyo, venture beyond Senso-ji Temple and embark on a delicious journey through the captivating flavors of Asakusa! It’s a place where every bite tells a story, and every meal is a celebration of Japanese culinary heritage. Prepare to be amazed, delighted, and thoroughly satisfied by the incredible food in Asakusa that awaits you.
