Best Street Food in Asakusa: 5 Must-Try Snacks
- 5月4日
- 読了時間: 4分
更新日：5月18日
Asakusa is one of Tokyo’s most popular sightseeing areas, where you can enjoy a wide variety of local foods in a short amount of time.Around Nakamise Street, you’ll find everything from traditional Japanese sweets to modern desserts, all within walking distance.
In this guide, we’ve carefully selected five must-try street foods for anyone visiting Asakusa.
Where to Find Street Food in Asakusa
Most street food spots are located in the following areas:
Nakamise Street (main street)
Around Sensoji Temple
Nearby side streets
Everything is within a 5–10 minute walking distance, making it easy to try multiple foods in one visit.
Asakusa Menchi
One of the first places that comes to mind when talking about street food in Asakusa is Asakusa Menchi.Located just off Nakamise Street, this shop is known for its constant lines and popularity among both tourists and locals.
They serve deep-fried beef cutlets made from 100% beef, cooked fresh for each order. The outer layer is crispy, while the inside is juicy and full of flavor.
When you take a bite, you’ll immediately notice the rich meat juices. Despite being fried, it’s not overly greasy, making it surprisingly easy to eat while exploring. The seasoning is simple, and it’s typically eaten without sauce to highlight the natural flavor of the meat.
Lines vary depending on the time of day. On weekdays, expect a 5–10 minute wait, and on weekends, around 10–20 minutes. However, the line moves quickly.
Be careful when eating, as it’s served very hot. Also, since it’s fried, it may feel heavy if you eat it later in your food tour.
Price: 400 yen
Address: 2-3-3 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo
Hours: 10:00–19:00 (until sold out)
Unana
If you’re looking for something more filling than typical street snacks, Unana is a great option.This shop serves grilled eel rice balls made with domestic Japanese eel, offering a more substantial bite compared to other street foods.
The eel is grilled over charcoal, giving it a rich, smoky flavor. The sauce is slightly sweet but well-balanced, enhancing the taste without overpowering it.
The eel is tender and flavorful, and even though the portion is not large, it’s satisfying enough as a small meal. It’s a good contrast to the many sweet options in Asakusa.
Depending on the time of day, items may sell out, so it’s best to visit earlier if you want to be sure to try it.
This is a great choice for those who want something more than just a light snack.
Price: 630 yen
Address: 2-7-21 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo
Hours: Weekdays 9:00–17:30
Weekends & Holidays 9:00–18:30
Kimuraya Honten (Ningyo-yaki)
Ningyo-yaki is one of the most traditional sweets in Asakusa, and Kimuraya Honten is one of the oldest and most well-known shops, founded in 1868.
These are small sponge cakes filled with sweet red bean paste, shaped like traditional symbols such as the Kaminarimon gate or pagodas, adding to the cultural experience.
The texture is light, and the sweetness is gentle. The red bean filling is not overly sweet, making it easy to eat several pieces at once.
One of the highlights is watching them being made right in front of you. Freshly baked ones are especially good, with a soft texture and warm aroma.
Although the area is crowded, the line moves quickly, so you won’t have to wait long.
Price: 800 yen (8 pieces)
Address: 2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo
Hours: 9:00–19:00
Asakusa Kagetsudo (Melon Pan)
Kagetsudo’s melon pan is one of the most popular sweets in Asakusa, with over 3,000 sold per day.It’s known for its large size and golden-brown, crispy surface.
What makes it unique is the baking process. The dough is fermented at low temperature for about three times longer than usual, creating a distinctive texture.
The outer layer has a crisp, cookie-like texture, while the inside is soft and airy. The sweetness is balanced and not overwhelming, making it easy to enjoy even after trying other foods.
For the best experience, it’s recommended to eat it fresh, as the texture changes once it cools down.
Price: 280 yen
Address: 2-7-13 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo
Hours: 9:00– (until sold out)
Kamon no Kou (Japanese-style Crepe)
Kamon no Kou offers a modern take on Japanese sweets with their layered “wa-crepes.”Unlike typical crepes, these are built with multiple layers, similar to a parfait, combining different textures and flavors.
They use high-quality ingredients such as Uji matcha and Hokkaido cream, creating a rich and well-balanced dessert. Inside, you’ll find layers of cream, sponge, and sauces, making each bite slightly different.
The matcha flavor is noticeable but not too bitter, blending well with the sweetness of the cream. The combination of textures keeps it interesting until the last bite.
Compared to other street foods, this is more like a full dessert rather than a quick snack, so it’s best enjoyed toward the end of your food tour.
Address: 2-7-13 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo
Hours: 10:00–17:00 (Last order 16:30)
Tips for Enjoying Street Food in Asakusa
Eating while walking is generally discouraged in Asakusa.Instead, it’s best to eat near the shop or in designated areas.
Trash bins are limited, so you may need to return your trash to the shop or carry it with you.
The area gets crowded between 11:00 and 15:00, so visiting in the morning is recommended for a more relaxed experience.
Suggested Food Route
Visit Sensoji Temple
Start with Ningyo-yaki
Try melon pan
Eat Asakusa Menchi
Finish with Unana or a crepe
This order helps you enjoy everything without getting too full too quickly.
Summary
Asakusa offers a wide variety of street food, from traditional sweets to more filling options.
Savory: Asakusa Menchi, Unana
Classic: Ningyo-yaki, Melon Pan
Dessert: Crepes
Trying these five will give you a well-rounded food experience in Asakusa.
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