Nakamise Shopping Street (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Nakamise Shopping Street?
What makes it 80% Couple-Friendly: Couples may rent kimonos, pose under Kaminarimon, and share street foods, yet shoulder-to-shoulder tour crowds and queuing at shops on weekends reduce intimacy and slow strolls.
Positives:
- Historic Ambiance: Many shops date back centuries and retain Edo-period signage and lanterns.
- Varied Souvenirs: Find traditional crafts, ukiyo-e prints, and themed sweets all in one street.
Challenges:
- Peak Crowds: Narrow lanes fill quickly after 9 AM, making movement slower.
- Limited Seating: Few benches along the street; plan to stand at counters or bring a small foldable stool.
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 memorable couple photos
- Stroll the classic 250 m arcade with traditional crafts and foods
- Sample sweet treats like ningyoyaki, mochi, and rice crackers
- Draw omikuji together for a fun temple ritual
- Take a rickshaw ride past historic gates and river views
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Gives time to rent kimonos, browse shops, sample snacks, and take photos without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Nakamise Shopping Street
Kimono Rental:
Rent matching kimonos or yukatas at shops like Nadeshiko Kimono.
Tip: Book a morning slot to stroll before shops fill with crowds.
Stroll Nakamise Shopping Street:
Walk the 250 m arcade lined with over 90 stalls selling crafts, snacks, and souvenirs.
Tip: Browse early to see traditional shutters painted with seasonal motifs.
Photo Stop at Kaminarimon Gate:
Snap couple photos under the giant red lantern of the main entrance.
Tip: Arrive before 9 AM for clear shots without people in the frame.
Omikuji Fortune Draw:
Shake the box and draw a fortune slip for ¥100 at Senso-ji Temple.
Tip: Tie any bad fortune on the rack to leave unwanted luck behind.
Rickshaw Ride:
Enjoy a 30 min guided rickshaw tour past Kaminarimon, the temple plaza, and Sumida River views.
Tip: Ask for a route that passes Tokyo Skytree for skyline photos.
Snack Sampling:
Try ningyoyaki, mochi, rice crackers, and sweet potato sticks priced ¥100–¥500 each.
Tip: Share different snacks to taste more items while keeping cost down.
When is the best time to visit Nakamise Shopping Street (Tokyo, Japan)?
Visit during New Year or temple festivals to find limited-edition painted 'hakoban' souvenirs and special shop decorations.
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Reviews of Nakamise Shopping Street (Tokyo)
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...
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Kimono rental for two | JPY 13,600 |
| Rickshaw ride (30 min) | JPY 10,000 |
| Snacks and omikuji | JPY 2,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 25,600 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Nakamise Shopping Street
- Arrive Early: Start before 9 AM to catch shops opening and enjoy a quieter stroll.
- Explore Shin-Nakamise: Cross the side street for a roofed arcade with later opening hours and fewer tourists.
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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