Located in the heart of Tokyo, Asakusa is one of the city’s most vibrant and culturally rich neighborhoods, with its roots reaching back centuries. But in addition to its landmarks like Senso-ji Temple, the bustling Nakamise-dori shopping street or the Kappabashi kitchen town, there’s another place that I recommend that you check out while you're here: the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center. 

Whether you’re looking for multilingual assistance, panoramic views of Asakusa, or cultural experiences, this eight-story building is the perfect place to begin exploring.

A Modern Architecture Masterpiece designed by Kengo Kuma

Situated directly across from the Kaminarimon Gate—the dramatic, lantern-adorned entrance to Senso-ji Temple, the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center is an architectural gem.

It was designed by world-renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, whose projects can be found in Japan, France, China, and Singapore. The building, which resembles seven traditional Japanese wooden houses stacked on top of each other, features an impressive design that makes abundant use of wood and glass.

The Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center has everything you need to get your time in Asakusa off to a great start. The knowledgeable staff at the first-floor information desk can provide information on local events, transportation schedules, and other information in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Korean. The center also offers a range of pamphlets and maps, making navigating Asakusa’s winding streets and bustling alleys easier, and information about travel destinations all over Japan if you're looking for inspiration when planning the next leg of your journey. 

There’s even a Tokyowater Drinking Station right outside where you can fill up your water bottle and a currency exchange center in case you're running low on cash! 

💡Pro tip: While payment by credit cards or other payment apps has become increasingly common in large cities like Tokyo, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand just in case.)

Take in the View of Asakusa on the Observation Deck

One of the biggest attractions at the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center is the observation deck on the eighth floor.

This open-air observation deck offers stunning views of iconic sights like Kaminarimon Gate, Senso-ji Temple and Tokyo Skytree. On clear days, you may even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji in the distance. The best part? It's all free! If you're looking for a panoramic view of the city, head straight to the eighth floor—you won’t be disappointed!

The eighth floor also houses Cafe Rion, which offers a wide variety of coffees, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages, as well as a selection of foods and snacks. If you're interested in trying one of Tokyo’s beloved “old-timey” Western meals, go for the Napolitan—spaghetti tossed in a ketchup-based sauce with sauteed onions, mushrooms, green peppers, and bacon.

Activities to Explore Japanese Traditional Cultures

The center offers much more than just maps and wonderful views—there are also plenty of ways to learn about Asakusa and enjoy Japanese culture while inside the center. For example, you can try your hand (and test your dexterity!) with some traditional Japanese toys such as daruma-otoshi (a game featuring a stack of colored wooden blocks topped with a Daruma doll) or kendama (a classic cup-and-ball game) on the second floor.

The center also offers cultural experiences that you can enjoy for free, such as a calligraphy class that teaches you to write a style known as kanteiryuu, which was used in the Edo period for advertisements such as those for kabuki. Be sure to ask the information desk when their next event will be held! 

Take a Break from Your Travels on the Sixth Floor

For travelers who have been on their feet exploring Tokyo’s sights, the multipurpose room on the sixth floor offers a quiet and comfortable place to rest. You can bring your own food and drinks, making it a perfect spot for a quick snack or light meal, then relax here without feeling rushed, recharge, and enjoy a peaceful moment before heading back out into the lively streets of Asakusa. 

Just be sure to keep conversations quiet and to a minimum, as the room occasionally shows informative films about the city. These films are also a great way to learn more about Asakusa’s history and culture while resting.

Final Tips for Visitors

The Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center is more than just a place to grab maps or ask for directions. It’s a comprehensive resource for anyone exploring this fascinating area of Tokyo. From its helpful multilingual staff to its cultural workshops and observation deck, the center is designed to make your experience in Asakusa as enriching and enjoyable as possible. Definitely check it out! 

Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center

Address: 2-18-9 Kaminarimon, Taito City, Tokyo, 111-0034
Opening Hours: Vary by floor
Closed: Open 365 days year
Website: https://www.city.taito.lg.jp/bunka_kanko/kankoinfo/info/oyakudachi/kankocenter/a-tic-gaiyo.html (English brochure available) 
TEL: 81-(0)3-3842-5566

Writer

Rachael Aoki
Originally from the East Coast of the United States, Rachael has called Japan home for over a decade. She enjoys discovering destinations that are popular with locals from quaint cafes to hole-in-the-wall eateries and sharing that information with visitors from overseas. She also loves taking trips to onsen and is always up for a trip to Hakone, Kanagawa.