Nakamise Shopping Street (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Nakamise Shopping Street?
What makes it 87% Couple-Friendly: Couples can rent kimonos, pose under Kaminarimon, share ningyoyaki, and ride a rickshaw; dusk lantern glow feels romantic, although persistent crowds reduce privacy.
Positives:
- Cultural Experience: Wearing matching kimonos helps you engage deeply with local traditions.
- Photogenic Moments: Historic lanterns and temple gates create striking backdrops for couple photos.
Challenges:
- Crowded Walkway: The narrow street fills up quickly midday, making navigation slow.
- Cash Only: Most stalls accept cash only, and ATMs may not support all international cards.
What is Nakamise Shopping Street?
- A historic 250-meter shopping arcade in Asakusa, Tokyo, connecting Kaminarimon Gate to Sensoji Temple’s main hall and hosting nearly 100 shops offering traditional crafts, snacks, and souvenirs
- Features green-tiled arcade roofing and rows of red paper lanterns above uniform wooden storefronts, reflecting Edo-period architectural aesthetics
- Ranks among Japan’s oldest commercial thoroughfares, with many family-run shops tracing their origins to the Edo era and preserving artisanal traditions
What is so special about Nakamise Shopping Street for couple trip?
- Rent matching kimonos for a unique couple experience
- Browse over 90 shops on the 250 m historic street
- Capture photos under Kaminarimon’s giant red lantern
- Choose a rickshaw tour for a guided Asakusa ride
- Sample affordable local snacks and draw fortunes
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: This gives time to browse shops, try street snacks, and take photos without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Nakamise Shopping Street
Kimono or Yukata Rental:
Rent matching traditional outfits and have hair styled at shops like Nadeshiko Kimono.
Tip: Book a couple plan in advance to secure size and include hairstyling.
Stroll Nakamise Shopping Street:
Walk the 250 m street lined with over 90 shops selling crafts and local snacks.
Tip: Start at Kaminarimon gate and move toward Senso-ji to avoid backtracking.
Rickshaw Ride:
Take a 30 min guided rickshaw tour past Senso-ji and Sumida River.
Tip: Book with Ebisuya on-site to get a driver who doubles as a guide.
Draw an Omikuji:
Shake the fortune box and pick a slip from numbered drawers at Senso-ji.
Tip: Carry small coins (¥100) to save time at the drawer.
Photo Stop at Kaminarimon:
Snap photos under the giant red lantern and on temple steps.
Tip: Visit early morning for softer light and fewer crowds.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Nakamise Shopping Street
- Go Early: Arrive before 9 AM to enjoy shops and photo spots with minimal crowds.
- Bring Small Bills: Carry ¥100–¥500 coins to speed up purchases at snack stalls.
Reviews of Nakamise Shopping Street
Serene Lim
Very touristy but love the bustling market / temple atmosphere. Must go! Super hot because of the sun but you can hide in the different shops to buy cute merchandise and enjoy some air con :)
Elba Pavon
Nakamise Shopping Street is such a cool place to explore! It’s packed with tons of little shops offering all kinds of there is souvenir from traditional gifts to fun snacks. It’s a great spot to pick up something memorable from Tokyo. We tried a strawberry mochi for the first time so soft and delicious! We also had a strawberry on a sugar stick, which was super sweet and tasty. Both were a hit! De...
Oz Correa
So many shops to buy from. They have many beautiful souvenirs to choose to take to your family. It's a nice place to walk and also next to the shrine. There are also stalls for food and that smells good and also delicious looking candy.
Raman Baath
Busy and best place for souvenirs shopping just close to Senso ji temple. Nakamise is the most famous shopping street in Asakusa. The street runs for 250 meters on the main approach to Sensoji Temple. The Nakamise Shopping Street offers 250 meters of pedestrian shopping from Kaminarimon, the "Thunder Gate" to Hōzōmon, the "Treasure-House Gate" of Sensoji Temple. Crafts and souvenirs can be bought...
Hamid
The shopping street is lively and vibrant, full of energy and charm. There are plenty of shops selling beautiful and cute items, perfect for souvenirs. The staff are friendly and welcoming, making the experience even more enjoyable. In one of the shops, we even saw a lady handcrafting a silk rope belt — it was fascinating to watch. A lovely place to stroll, explore, and find something special to t...
When is the best time to visit Nakamise Shopping Street (Tokyo, Japan)?
In spring, enjoy cherry blossoms around Senso-ji after shopping. In winter, warm up with hot ningyoyaki and sweet potato sticks.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Kimono rental (2 people) | JPY 68,300 |
| Rickshaw ride (30 min) | JPY 10,000 |
| Street snacks | JPY 2,500 |
| Omikuji draws (2) | JPY 200 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 36,000 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Nakamise Shopping Street
Address: 1-chōme-36-3 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
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About Nakamise Shopping Street
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 3-3844-335010 BEST nearby Activities
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