Things To Do
in Taitō

Taitō is a vibrant and culturally rich ward in Tokyo, Japan, known for its historical significance and bustling atmosphere. It is home to iconic landmarks such as Senso-ji Temple, Japan's oldest temple, and the charming streets of Asakusa. The area features a blend of traditional and modern attractions, making it a captivating destination for tourists.

With its lively markets, diverse food scene, and rich cultural experiences, Taitō offers something for every traveler.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Asakusa
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Senso-ji Temple, where you can admire the iconic Kaminarimon Gate and stroll through Nakamise Street for traditional snacks and souvenirs.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views of the city, followed by lunch at one of the many restaurants in the complex.

evening
:

Finish your day with a relaxing walk along the Sumida River, where you can enjoy the illuminated skyline and perhaps take a river cruise.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the Tokyo National Museum in Ueno Park to explore Japan's extensive art and history collections.

afternoon
:

After lunch, walk through Ueno Park and enjoy its cherry blossoms in spring or autumn foliage, then visit the Ueno Zoo.

evening
:

Explore the vibrant Ameyoko shopping street for dinner, where you can sample various street food and shop for unique local items.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
Coffee$4
🍺Beer$6
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and historical landmarks.
  • Diverse culinary scene with delicious local dishes.
  • Convenient public transport and walkable streets.
  • Can be crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Japanese speakers.
  • Higher living costs compared to other regions in Japan.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "お会計お願いします" - The check, please.

Places to Visit in Taitō

Visit one of these nice places.

Senso-ji Temple

Capture the beauty of Japan's oldest temple, especially the iconic red pagoda and the bustling atmosphere of the surrounding streets.

Tokyo Skytree

The Skytree offers breathtaking views of the cityscape, making it a perfect spot for panoramic shots, particularly at sunset.

Sumida River

The river provides picturesque views of the city, especially during cherry blossom season and at night when the skyline is illuminated.

Culinary Guide

Food in Taitō

Taitō offers a delightful culinary scene rich with traditional Japanese flavors and street food delights.

Taitō Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ningyo-yaki

These cute, doll-shaped cakes are filled with red bean paste and are a popular sweet treat found in Asakusa.

Must-Try!

Menchi-katsu

A deep-fried meat patty that is crispy on the outside and juicy inside, often enjoyed as a snack in street markets.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nakamise Street

This historic shopping street leading to Senso-ji Temple is lined with stalls selling traditional snacks like ningyo-yaki and kaminari-okoshi.

Ameyoko Market

A bustling market street where you can find a variety of street foods, fresh produce, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Taitō experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) brings mild weather and cherry blossoms, while summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, sometimes exceeding 30°C (86°F). Autumn (September to November) is characterized by crisp air and colorful foliage, making it a popular time for outdoor activities. Winter (December to February) is cold, with temperatures often dropping below 0°C (32°F), and occasional snowfall can occur.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

Bowing is a common greeting in Japan and shows respect. A slight bow is usually sufficient when meeting someone.

Shoes Off Indoors

It is customary to remove your shoes when entering homes and some traditional accommodations. Look for slippers provided for guests.

Quiet Public Spaces

Maintaining a low volume in public places, particularly on public transport, is important to respect others' space.

Safety Guide

Safety

Taitō is generally a safe area for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard safety precautions should be taken, such as being aware of your surroundings and securing your belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire and medical emergencies. It's also advisable to carry a card with emergency contact information.

Tipping in Taitō

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Japan, and may even be considered rude. Exceptional service is expected, and gratitude can be expressed verbally.

Payment Methods

Cash is still widely used, although credit cards are increasingly accepted. Convenience stores and ATMs are available for withdrawals.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom, especially around Ueno Park and the Sumida River, attracting many visitors.

Summer

Hot and humid weather can be expected, along with various summer festivals, including the Sumida River Fireworks Festival.

Autumn

Enjoy the vibrant fall foliage in parks like Ueno, making it a great time for photography and outdoor activities.

Winter

Cool temperatures and occasional snowfall create a serene atmosphere, with holiday illuminations brightening the streets.

Nightlife Guide

Taitō at Night

Taitō offers a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of traditional izakayas, modern bars, and karaoke joints. The streets come alive after dark, especially around Asakusa and Ueno, where locals and tourists gather to enjoy food, drinks, and entertainment. You can find everything from quiet pubs to lively nightclubs, making it easy to find a spot that suits your mood. Seasonal festivals and events also add to the nightlife experience, offering unique cultural insights.

Hiking in Taitō

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Takao

Located about an hour from Taitō, Mount Takao offers various trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, with stunning views from the summit.

Mitake Mountain

This scenic mountain is known for its hiking trails, beautiful landscapes, and the famous Musashi Mitake Shrine located at its peak.

Airports

How to reach Taitō by plane.

Haneda Airport (HND)

Located approximately 30 minutes from Taitō, Haneda is one of the two major airports serving Tokyo, known for its convenience and proximity to the city center.

Getting Around

Walkability

Taitō is highly walkable, especially around major attractions like Asakusa and Ueno. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are frequent, making it easy to explore on foot. The area is compact, with many cultural sites, shops, and dining options within walking distance, providing a pleasant experience for pedestrians.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population is diverse, including long-time residents, families, and young professionals who contribute to the vibrant community.

Tourists

Taitō attracts a significant number of domestic and international tourists who come to explore its cultural landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is extremely popular in Japan, with local teams and games attracting large crowds, especially during the summer season.

Sumo

As the birthplace of Sumo, Taitō offers visitors the chance to experience this traditional sport, with tournaments held several times a year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Taitō can be busy, particularly during rush hours, but public transportation is efficient and reliable. The Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway networks make it easy to navigate the city. Bicycles are also a common mode of transportation, and there are designated bike lanes in some areas. Visitors may find walking or using public transport more convenient than driving.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Taitō.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetable-based dishes, but it’s advisable to check for fish-based broths in soups.

Gluten-Free

While rice is a staple, finding completely gluten-free options can be challenging, so be sure to communicate your dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Taitō is accessible, with several hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies available. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and many facilities have English-speaking staff. It’s advisable for travelers to have travel insurance to cover medical expenses. Vaccinations are not typically required for travel to Japan, but routine vaccinations should be up to date.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide