Sakura Hostel Asakusa

Address: 2-24-2 Asakusa Taito-ku, Tokyo
tel +81-3-3847-8111
fax +81-3-3847-8112

e-mail: info@sakura-hostel.co.jp
URL: http://www.sakura-hostel.co.jp/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/SakuraHotelTokyo
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/asakusa_hostel

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆SAKURA HOSTEL ASAKUSA☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

Inquiries about events are welcomed anytime via email or website.
Or follow us on Facebook or Twitter for more updated info.

TEL: 03-3847-8111
Address: 2-24-2 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo, JAPAN
☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

The new year has started, and here's our Event Calendar 2012! ^^
As you will see, there's much to do! ^^

January

Asakusa event

1st - 19th Fuyu Botan ( Winter peony )
You can enjoy beautiful winter peony in Ueno Toshogu. Botan Park in Ueno Toshogu is open from 9:30 to 16:30. Admission fee is 600 yen.

2nd to 26th - New Year's Kabuki
Three well-known dramas being staged at the Kokaido this month. Attending kabuki is one of the many activities people do to ring in the new year. @Asakusa Kokaido

Hostel event

10th and 18th - SUMO Wrestling Tournament Tour
January Grand Sumo Tournament will be held from January 8 till 22. We, Sakura Hostel Asakusa, have Sumo Tour on January 10th (TUE) and 18th (WED). Please ask the staff for more information. Come to the front desk to sign up for this tour!!

15th - Shodo workshop
You have an oppoturnity to experience Shodo. We will give you some suggestions of your name in Kanji. Shodo workshop will be from 18:00 to 19:00. Your Shodo art is going to be a good souvenir from Japan. Please come and join us!! More info>> Shodo Workshop

21st - Sightseeing tour in Ueno park
PEACE volunteer members guide you around Ueno Park from 10:00 to 12:00. You will certainly learn the interesting history, general information about Ueno area. If you are interested in it, please come to the front desk for sign up.

February

Asakusa event

3rd - Setsubun Bean Throwing
Setsubun is a bean-throwing ceremony held on the last day of winter. Sensoji Temple in Asakusa is believed to be the first temple to start the ceremony for the general public. @Sensoji Temple

26th - Tokyo Marathon
A number of amateur runners run on major streets in central Tokyo, including those in wheelchairs and with physical/mental challenges. It starts from Shinjuku and end at Tokyo Big Sight. @Kaminarimon Gate

26th - Nagashi Bina Doll Festival
Edo Nagashibina is the floating of boats containing dolls on the river. It is the traditional custom of evicting all misfortune and evil spirit from the girl. It ensures a healthy life. @Sumida river

Hostel event

18th - Sightseeing tour in Ueno park
PEACE volunteer members guide you around Ueno Park from 10:00 to 12:00. You will certainly learn the interesting history, general information about Ueno area. If you are interested in it, please come to the front desk for sign up.

19th - Shodo workshop
Write your name in Kanji (Chinese character)
Enjoy Shodo as if you are a great calligrapher!!

March

Asakusa event

18th - Kinryu-no-mai
The official name for Sensoji Temple is Kinryuzan and this name comes from a tale about a golden dragon. It is performed by more than 70 male volunteers from local youth organizations. @Sensoji Temple

Hostel event

17th - Sightseeing tour in Ueno park
PEACE volunteer members guide you around Ueno Park from 10:00 to 12:00. You will certainly learn the interesting history, general information about Ueno area. If you are interested in it, please come to the front desk for sign up.

18th - Shodo workshop
Write your name in Kanji (Chinese character)

April

Asakusa event

8th - Shirasagi no Mai (White Heron Dance) festival
The white heron (shirasagi) dance is a religious rite to drive out the plague and purify the spirits on their passage to the next world. The white faces of the dancers signify innocence, purity and gentleness. @Sensoji Temple

21th - Yabusame Archery
Yabusame is a type of mounted archery in traditional Japanese archery.
An archer on a running horse shoots three special "turnip-headed" arrows successively at three wooden targets.
Yabusame, or the horseback archery that takes place in Asakusa, has a very long history.It must have indeed been a thrilling event for everyone! @Sumida River side

28th - Nakizumo Festival - Crying Baby Contest
Parents pray for their children's good health as young sumo wrestlers hold their babies high in pairs.The baby with the loudest howls is declared the winner by the sumo judge. @Sensoji Temple

Hostel event

Hanami party
We have Hanami Party under the cherry trees along Sumida River. Viewing very beautiful cherry blossoms, we enjoy drinking, eating, talking, etc.... @Sakura Hostel Asakusa

15th - Shodo workshop
Write your name in Kanji (Chinese character) and enjoy Shodo as if you are a great calligrapher!!

21th - Sightseeing tour in Ueno park
PEACE volunteer members guide you around Ueno Park from 10:00 to 12:00. You will certainly learn the interesting history, general information about Ueno area. If you are interested in it, please come to the front desk for sign up.

May

Asakusa event

5th - Takara no Mai Dance
In the Takara-no-mai or "treasure dance" which celebrates the blessings and goodness of the Kannon, the treasure ship is pulled by many young children. @Around Sensoji Temple

19th and 20nd - Sanja Matsuri
The Sanja Matsuri ("Three Shrine Festival"), is one of the three great Shinto festivals in Tokyo. Its prominent parades revolve around three mikoshi, as well as traditional music and dancing. @Asakusa town

Hostel event

Sumo Tour
May Grand Sumo Tournament will be held from May 6th till 20th. We will walk to the sumo stadium in Ryogoku and watch sumo match. Please ask the staffs for more information. @Sakura Hostel Asakusa

19th - Sightseeing tour in Ueno park
PEACE volunteer members guide you around Ueno Park from 10:00 to 12:00. You will certainly learn the interesting history, general information about Ueno area. If you are interested in it, please come to the front desk for sign up.

20th - Shodo workshop
Write your name in Kanji (Chinese character)

June

Hostel event

16th - Sightseeing tour in Ueno park
PEACE volunteer members guide you around Ueno Park from 10:00 to 12:00. You will certainly learn the interesting history, general information about Ueno area. If you are interested in it, please come to the front desk for sign up.

17th - Shodo workshop
Write your name in Kanji (Chinese character)

July

Asakusa event

28th - Sumida River Fireworks Festival
One of the biggest fireworks festival in Japan! This is the oldest fireworks festival for which historical records exist. About 20.000 fireworks are displayed. @Along Sumida river

Hostel event

15th - Sakura Hostel's Birthday
Happy Birthday to Sakura Hostel!! Thanks to you all, we can have the 2nd anniversary :) Let's have a party together! Any gifts are always welcomed;)

15th - Shodo workshop
Write your name in Kanji (Chinese character)

21th - Sightseeing tour in Ueno park
PEACE volunteer members guide you around Ueno Park from 10:00 to 12:00. You will certainly learn the interesting history, general information about Ueno area. If you are interested in it, please come to the front desk for sign up.

August

Asakusa event

25th - Asakusa Samba Carnival
Asakusa Samba Carnival is the one of the three major summer festivals in Tokyo, and the biggest Samba Carnival in Japan! Together with samba teams from the carnival homeland of Brazil, about 3,500 lovers of samba rhythms come from all over Japan. @Along Kaminari-mon street

Hostel event

18th - Sightseeing tour in Ueno park
PEACE volunteer members guide you around Ueno Park from 10:00 to 12:00. You will certainly learn the interesting history, general information about Ueno area. If you are interested in it, please come to the front desk for sign up.

19th - Shodo workshop
Write your name in Kanji (Chinese character)

September

Hostel event

Sumo Tour
September Grand Sumo Tournament will be held from September 9th till 23rd. We will walk to the sumo stadium in Ryogoku and watch sumo match. Please ask the staffs for more information. @Sakura Hostel Asakusa

15th - Sightseeing tour in Ueno park
PEACE volunteer members guide you around Ueno Park from 10:00 to 12:00. You will certainly learn the interesting history, general information about Ueno area. If you are interested in it, please come to the front desk for sign up.

16th - Shodo workshop
Write your name in Kanji (Chinese character). Enjoy Shodo as if you are a great calligrapher!!

October

Asakusa event

18th - Kinryu-no-mai
Golden Dragon Dance at the unveiling of Asakusa Kannon. The official name for Sensoji Temple is Kinryuzan and this name comes from a tale about a golden dragon. It is performed by more than 70 male volunteers from local youth organizations. @Sensoji Temple

Hostel event

20th - Sightseeing tour in Ueno park
PEACE volunteer members guide you around Ueno Park from 10:00 to 12:00. You will certainly learn the interesting history, general information about Ueno area. If you are interested in it, please come to the front desk for sign up.

21th - Shodo workshop
Write your name in Kanji (Chinese character)

November

Asakusa event

3rd - Jidai Matsuri
It is an historical parade that recreates Tokyo's history and culture. Historical parade with hundreds of people wearing period costumes representing styles from throughout Japan's history such as those of samurai soldiers and geisha girls. @Kaminarimon street

8th and 20th - Tori no Ichi Festival
Tori no Ichi (open-air market) is a famous annual fair in November on the day of the Tori (Rooster) in Chinese calendar and this fair has continued to today since the Edo period. People come to buy colorfully decorated kumade (rakes) and pray for a health, good fortune and success in business. @Ooto

Hostel event

17th - Sightseeing tour in Ueno park
PEACE volunteer members guide you around Ueno Park from 10:00 to 12:00. You will certainly learn the interesting history, general information about Ueno area. If you are interested in it, please come to the front desk for sign up.

18th - Shodo workshop
Write your name in Kanji (Chinese character). Enjoy Shodo as if you are a great calligrapher!!

December

Asakusa event

17th to 19th - Hagoita Ichi Fair
Street stalls sell all shapes and sizes of hagoita -decorative wooden bats used as lucky charms. They are decorated with colourful portraits of kabuki actors, politicians, pop stars or characters from comics.

31st - Jyoya no Kane Bell Tolling
Ringing the bell at a temple on New Year's Eve. By hearing the bells toll 108 times people can rid themselves of 108 troublesome desires at the end of the year. @Sensoji Temple

Hostel event

15th - Sightseeing tour in Ueno park
PEACE volunteer members guide you around Ueno Park from 10:00 to 12:00. You will certainly learn the interesting history, general information about Ueno area. If you are interested in it, please come to the front desk for sign up.

16th - Shodo workshop
Write your name in Kanji (Chinese character)

You see, there are many events in Asakusa and our Hostel! ^^

For some events, there's no date fixed yet.
But of course, as soon as possible, we'll update the missing dates!

And please check our website for more information! ^^

Enjoy your stay! :)

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆SAKURA HOSTEL ASAKUSA☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

Inquiries about events are welcomed anytime via email or website.
Or follow us on Facebook or Twitter for more updated info.

TEL: 03-3847-8111
Address: 2-24-2 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo, JAPAN
☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

Nakamise street is one of the most attractive spot in Asakusa.
In the daytime, you can see a lot of people enjoying eating, shopping etc.

All shops on Nakamise street are closed around 6:00 pm.
It's pretty early, isn't it !?

However, you can still enjoy Nakamise street even after all shops are closed !!

As the other side of Nakamise street, something artistic shows up at night.

Regarding the shutter as a huge campus,
special feature of each season in Asakusa was painted on the shutter.

Let's see how wonderful it is.

<< SAKURA >>
It's the most beautiful season in Japan, I think.

<< SANJA MATSURI >>
This festival is held on the third weekend of May.

<< HOZUKI ICHI >>
In this special festival, there are many shops selling Hozuki (ground cheery) in Sensoji Temple.

<< Sumida River Fireworks Festival >>
It's one of the biggest summer events in Japan.

These shutter painting creates the graceful atmosphere at night.

Now, you can enjoy Asakusa more at night !! ┗(>ε･*)┓三

Sakura Hostel Asakusa

Address: 2-24-2 Asakusa Taito-ku, Tokyo
tel +81-3-3847-8111
fax +81-3-3847-8112

e-mail: info@sakura-hostel.co.jp
URL: http://www.sakura-hostel.co.jp/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/SakuraHotelTokyo
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/asakusa_hostel

Sakura Hostel Asakusa

Address: 2-24-2 Asakusa Taito-ku, Tokyo
tel +81-3-3847-8111
fax +81-3-3847-8112

e-mail: info@sakura-hostel.co.jp
URL: http://www.sakura-hostel.co.jp/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/SakuraHotelTokyo
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/asakusa_hostel

Do you know " Hagoita （羽子板） " ?
It's a Japanese traditional wooden racket.

It is used when girls play traditional New Year's game " Hanetsuki (羽根つき) ".
Hanetsuki is the badminton-like game.
Hagoita represents to hit back something bad, and also symbolizes health and safety.

There are a lot of beautiful Hagoita in this fair.
Using the finest cotton or washi paper, they are all hand-made.

Popular celebrities especially for this year shows up on the Hagoita design.
Let's see who is it.

( Right ) Homare Sawa, who is the captain of Nadeshiko JAPAN Soccer Team

( Middle ) Governor of Iwate, Miyagi, and Fukushima,

( Left ) J-POP Idol Group : AKB48

And MORE !!
Prince William and Queen Catherine, Steven Jobs etc

Did you find your favorite !?

Sakura Hostel Asakusa

Address: 2-24-2 Asakusa Taito-ku, Tokyo
tel +81-3-3847-8111
fax +81-3-3847-8112

e-mail: info@sakura-hostel.co.jp
URL: http://www.sakura-hostel.co.jp/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/SakuraHotelTokyo
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/asakusa_hostel

Do you play any music ??
If so,
you want to show your performance in front of a lot of people, don't you?

Then, you need a place to perform live music.

Sakura Hostel Asakusa gives you a dreamy chance !!

Any musical genre is welcome.

Last time, we had Okinawa Music Night even in our hostel.
A group of musicians performed Okinawa music and dance.
Audience stood up and started dancing together with them.... The event was great success.
You can see how fun it was through Asakusa Diary and Photos.

Now, it's your turn.

If you are interested in performing live music in Sakura Hostel Asakusa,
please make contact with us.

**********************************************
e-mail : info@sakura-hostel.co.jp
TEL : 03-3847-8111
**********************************************

サクラホステル浅草では音楽ステージの出演者を募集しております。
前回は沖縄民謡のグループによる「沖縄ミュージックナイト」を開催し,
大変な盛り上がりをみせました。
国際色豊かなサクラホステル浅草で、
あなたのパフォーマンスを披露してみてはいかがですか？
音楽に国境はありません！！どんなジャンルの音楽でも大歓迎です。
ご興味ありましたら、サクラホステル浅草までご連絡下さい。

**********************************************
メール : info@sakura-hostel.co.jp
電話 : 03-3847-8111
**********************************************

(*ﾟ▽ﾟ)ﾉﾉ☆　|　Let's have fun together with your nice performance !!　|　☆ヾ(^▽^*)))

Sakura Hostel Asakusa

Address: 2-24-2 Asakusa Taito-ku, Tokyo
tel +81-3-3847-8111
fax +81-3-3847-8112

e-mail: info@sakura-hostel.co.jp
URL: http://www.sakura-hostel.co.jp/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/SakuraHotelTokyo
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/asakusa_hostel

Sakura Hostel Asakusa

Address: 2-24-2 Asakusa Taito-ku, Tokyo
tel +81-3-3847-8111
fax +81-3-3847-8112

e-mail: info@sakura-hostel.co.jp
URL: http://www.sakura-hostel.co.jp/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/SakuraHotelTokyo
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/asakusa_hostel

Do you like Udon ?

Udon is thick Japanese noodle which is made of plain wheat flour.

There is a Udon restaurant near the hostel, whose name is " YAMADA UDON ".
I'm not going to talk about the taste.

What I want you to look at is this.

The mechanism of this Udon Objet is very easy.

White stick is hidden between Udon, and red chopsticks are attached to it.
Udon is hanging down from the chopsticks.
As the white stick moves up and down, the chopsticks move up and down.

It looks as if somebody is eating Udon, right ?

I see some people take a photo of this unique objet.

Why don't you go take a photo when you visit Asakusa ?

Sakura Hostel Asakusa

Address: 2-24-2 Asakusa Taito-ku, Tokyo
tel +81-3-3847-8111
fax +81-3-3847-8112

e-mail: info@sakura-hostel.co.jp
URL: http://www.sakura-hostel.co.jp/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/SakuraHotelTokyo
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/asakusa_hostel

What do you think this is ??

You can measure the distance between Tokyo Sky Tree and your location by this.

Overlap Tokyo Sky Tree with the tower silhouette of this scale.
By the distance between your eyes and the scale,
you will see how far Tokyo Sky Tree is now.

If it's 10 centimeters, Tokyo Sky Tree is 625 meters away.
If it's 16 centimeters, Tokyo Sky Tree is 1 kilometers away.

You can measure the distance between your eyes and the scale with the accessory map,
which also describes how far it is from the sightseeing spot such as Sensoji Temple.

This unique scale is named " Teku Teku Scale ", and sold at 1,000 yen.

How about going for a walk around Asakusa with " Teku Teku Scale " ?

One of the most popular Gyudon restaurants opened near the hostel today !!

You know there are already Yoshinoya and Matsuya in Asakusa, don't you ?
So......

Special feature of Sukiya is that there's a variety of menu.

For example,

Besides Gyudon, there are other menus such as Curry, and Tuna Bowl,

Cornelia went to Sukiya for lunch today.
What she ate was.....

Now, you got more restaurant option.
Enjoy staying in Asakusa. ＝＝＝＝＝＝☆(((((((((･ω･｀*)ﾉ

When you are in Asakusa, you may notice there are many Jinrikisha.

Jinrikisha is the vehicle like taxi.
Back in the old days, Jinrikisha was public transportation.
Thesedays, Jinrikisha is used for guiding around the specific area.

It's not as fast as taxi or train, but you can enjoy the atmosphere.
In Asakusa, you can enjoy the great atmosphere of old Tokyo.

In front of Kaminari-Mon gate, you'll find the Jinrikisha attendant.

The Jinrikisha person will guide you the local neighborhood in English.

It may be a bit expensive to ride one, but you will have a good memory of Tokyo, and your memories are priceless.

Many festivals are decided to be off because of the earthquake on 11th of March.

So,
we were afraid that Sumida River Fireworks would be cancelled too.
However, it was needless worry.

Sumida River Fireworks Festival will be held on August 27 (SAT).
It's from 19:05 to 20:30.
∩(☆≧▽≦☆)∩⌒♪

We will have a workshop and a party on that day.
After that, we go to see the fireworks together !!

The schedule is as follows.

15:00 - Japanese sweets workshop
You can learn how to make Japanese sweets.

16:00 - Nagashi Somen Party
Nagashi Somen (Flowing Noodles) is an eating style where people catch and eat somen noodles with their chopsticks as it runs down a stream of water.
Stand next to the noodle slider and wait for noodles flowing down !!

17:00 - Leave the hostel and head to the fireworks view place.
Since many people come to see the fireworks, Asakusa area will be very crowded.
So, we are going to head to the view place earlier.
Let's enjoy drinking while we wait for the start !!

☆(*･ω･)／C▼☆▼D?(･ω･*)☆(*･ω･)／C▼☆▼D?(･ω･*)☆

Enjoy the typical Japanese summer scene with us.

Saturday, August 27th, 2011
@Sakura Hostel Asakusa

Free! (BYO please if you want drinks)
Any inquiry? Email info@sakura-hostel.co.jp

There is a bar in Asakusa, which is the first European style bar in Japan.

It is KAMIYA BAR.

Recently,
it was registered as Tangible Cultural Properties of Japan.

It was built in 1921,
and went through Great Kanto earthquake of 1923 and the war.

This building, which is made of the ferroconcrete, has sixth floor and the basement.
It took Art Deco design such as three long semicircle arch windows.

The most popular cacktail in KAMIYA BAR is " DENKI BRAN ".
It's a brandy based cacktail.
" DENKI " means electricity in English.
It was named, meaning sophisticated sake at the time when electricity was still new.

Why don't you enjoy drinking, feeling the history of Japan in postwar days?

Something can be seen around the second observatory of Tokyo Sky Tree.

What is that !??

It's a spiral-shaped air corridor.

This air corridor was built surrounding the second observatory, which is 450 meters in height.

It's a glassed-in corridor.
So,
you can enjoy walking from 445-meter point to 450-meter point commanding a view of Tokyo.

It sounds nice, doesn't it ? :*.;".*・;・^;・:?(*^▽^*)/:・;^・;・*.";.*:

Do you know that
Sakura Hostel Asakusa has the special offer now ?

After the Great Tohoku Earthquake on March 11,
a large number of nations and national organisations have been offering great support to Japan.

In order to show how grateful we are for all the support,
we have the special offer named " Thank You Campaign ".

This offer is valid until the stay on June 30th.

We were going to put the price back in July.
However,
we decided to give you another discount offer as a token of our gratitude.

That is " Summer Discount " !!

You can stay in a dormitory bed at 2,000 yen !!

Do you want to stay in a private room ??
The room rate is as follows.

Twin Room 7,000 yen !!
4 Bed Room 8,800 yen !!
6 Bed Room 13,200 yen !!
8 Bed Room 17,600 yen !!

It's available for the stay from July 1st to August 31st.

Save your budget, and come to Japan !!　"Y(o^Д^o)Y"

Due to the earthquake,
a lot of events were canceled or held on a small scale.

We were afraid that Sumida River Fireworks Festival would also be cancelled.
But,
it was needless worry.

Although it's one month later than usual,
the decision of holding Sumida River Fireworks Festival was reached.

The date is August 27th (SAT), and it will start at 7:05 PM.
If it's bad weather, the fireworks festival will be postponed to August 28th (SUN).
And,
If it's bad weather on 28th too, it will be cancelled.

As usual,
20,000 fireworks in total are going to be set off in two places.

We want to enjoy Sumida River Fireworks Festival together with the guests this year too.
When the plan is fixed, we will let you know the detail.

+ ﾟ.((人д＜o)　We wish it would be nice weather on that day. (o＞д人))ﾟ+.

Do you know Sanja Festival (三社祭）?

This festival is held in Asakusa Shrine on the third weekend of May every year.

Unfortunately,
many festivals in Tokyo got cancelled due to the earthquake.
Sanja Festival did too.

In order to hand down the spirit of Shitamachi (traditional district) to the next generation,
" Asakusa Matsuri Museum " opened on Kaminarimon street in Asakusa.
It is limited period until May 27.

There are various booths in the museum.
such as.....

Miniature that accurately reproduced the main portable shrine.

Photograph and Painting of past Sanja Festival

Change in the design of HANTEN ( traditional work wear for festival )

How to tie an OBI( kimono sash ) and TENUGUI ( Japanese hand towel )

Dressing of festival clothes

Although there's no Sanja Festival this year,
you can experience Asakusa Matsuri culture in the museum.

It's open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM with free admission.

♪(ﾉ∀･)ﾉﾍ(･∀ﾍ)(ﾉ∀･)ﾉﾍ(･∀ﾍ)(ﾉ∀･)ﾉﾍ(･∀ﾍ)♪

Look !!

In commemoration of Tokyo Sky Tree reaching 634 meters, this coin was produced.

Tokyo Sky Tree on the surface.
On the back side, Sakura in the upper part and Gingko Nut in the lower part.

100mm in length and 173g in weight..... Only 63 coins were produced.

Do you know how much it is ?? -->> It's 1,634,000 yen !! ?(◯Дｏ;ノ)ノ

We can not afford to buy even this one coin, can we ?

There are the reasonable ones.
88 mm in length and 66.5g in weight
..... 634 coins were produced and the price is 634,000 yen.

Hmm, still expensive, isn't it ?
53 mm in length and 17g in weight
..... 1634 coins were produced and the price is 163,400 yen.

Those coins are made of pure gold.

Actually, there's much cheaper one. (*･ο･)＝з
70 mm in length and 50g in weight..... 6340 coins were produced and the price is 16,340 yen.
It's made of pure silver not gold, though.

Each price is connected to the height of Tokyo Sky Tree,
which is the world's tallest freestanding broadcast structure.

Are you interested in the commemorative coin ?

I tell you the secret place in Asakusa.

It's "Denpoin Garden (伝法院庭園）".

It's located behind Five-Storied Pagoda, and it's not open to the general public.

Only from March 25th till April 28th, this garden is exceptionally open to the public.
It's open from 10:00 AM to 16:00 PM.
Admission charge is 300 yen

The garden with Five-Storied Pagoda in the background...
Can you see Five-Storied Pagoda reflected in the pond?

The garden with Tokyo Sky Tree in the background...

You can see both Five-Storied Pagoda and Tokyo Sky Tree from there.
It's a good place, isn't it ?

Here's also a good place to enjoy Sakura.

You can enjoy not only the beautiful garden but also the valuable temple treasure
such as the statue of Goddess of Mercy, which cannot ordinarily be seen.

If you have any chance, how about visiting this secret place ?

Asakusa turned to the deserted town for a while after the earthquake happened.
To our surprise,
there was few people even in Nakamise Street.

We have three consecutive holidays this weekend ; March 19th, 20th, and 21st.

Although the life in Tokyo went back to normal,
we doubted whether people would come back to Asakusa.
However,
there was no need to worry about it.

Look !!
Now, Asakusa got back the energy.　ε=ε=(ノ≧∇≦）ノ
Nakamise Street is crowded with people as before.

Mostly they are Japanese visitors, but I can see some foreign visitors.

People are standing in a line in order to eat Tempura Bowl at the famous Tempura restaurant.
like before....

As a matter of fact,
some people refrain from the leisure in consideration of the victims.
Some people think that
the recovery in the stricken area will be prompted by revitalizing the economy.

In my opinion, I vote for the latter one.

I wish that
many people from all over the world would visit Japan and Japan would be encouraged greatly by them.
ヽ(´▽｀*(´▽｀*´▽｀*´▽｀)*´▽｀)ノ

Although the tragedy fell over Japan, we got an encouraging news in Tokyo.

Tokyo Sky Tree reached 634 meters in height at 1:34 PM on 18th of March !!

It has become the world's tallest freestanding broadcast structure.　(ﾟδﾟ*)☆☆

When the earthquake occurred on 11th of March,
the construction was immediately interrupted,
and the workers headed to the ground for safety.
There was neither injured person nor damage in the main body of the tower.
Therefore,
The construction was restarted on 14th of March.

At 9:50 AM on 18th of March,
the work was started that
"Gain Tower" for the antenna installation , which jut out from the main body of the tower,
was lifted up.
Then,
the lightning rod in the top of "Gain Tower" reached 634 meters.

So far, the construction plan not influenced by the earthquake.
It's almost on schedule.
After the interior finishing, it will be completed in this December.
It's scheduled to open next spring.

I think this news really cheers up people in Japan.
I hope the positive news like this will increase more.
･ﾟ･｡･ﾟﾟ･*:(((｡･-･)从(･-･｡)))･ﾟ･｡･ﾟﾟ･*:

The Asakusa northern part region is commonly called "OKU ASAKUSA (奥浅草）".

Although there's no clear definition of "OKU ASAKUSA",
it indicates the northern region from Sensoji Temple.

In Edo era,
there was the hustle and bustle of Oku Asakusa.
This region as well as Kaminarimon district have contributed to the development of Asakusa.

The events in each season are various, such as

Ichiyo Sakura Festival in April

Sanja Festival in May

Ajisai (hydrangea) Festival in June

Tori No Ichi in November
.

In order to inform the attractiveness of Oku Asakusa,
the sightseeing mascot "OKUASA-chan" was born !!

This "OKUASA-chan" was born from the cherry bud, who was 8 years old.
Her charm point is the big round eyes and round face.
Wearing Happi with a twisted headband, she is vigorous.

Her job is to introduce the culture and history as well as the popular store in Oku Asakusa.
Actually, Oku Asakusa is rich in historic remains.

I hope she will confer prosperity and happiness on Oku Asakusa.
・゜゜・*:.。.ｄ((o・c_,・o))ｂ　・゜゜・*:.。

At Waentei - Kikko, you can have a traditional Japanese cuisine with a music performance.
Dinner here costs around 10,000 yen.
Expensive? You can still have a gorgeous lunch box for a reasonable price at 3,000 yen.

Feeling rich? :-P

Visit their website for more information.
Waentei - Kikko

When you visit a temple or shrine in Japan, especially in the beginning of a year, don't forget to pick your "fortune".
It tells you how your near future will be. Well, this small piece of paper RATES your luck. Excellent? So so? Unlucky? and so on.

This year, the fortune that I picked at Sensoji temple says that I will have "a half fortune".

A half fortune?? half??

I don't know what "a half fortune" means, but I'm at least not "miserably unlucky".
Well, let's see how my year 2011 will go, and yours, too!

As for shrines and temples in Asakusa, what comes to mind first?
Sensoji Temple??

Don't forget about Imado Shrine !!

Enshrining two gods who are married couple,
it's known well as the place that is famous in connection with matchmaking.

In addition,
it is the birthplace of good-luck beckoning cat doll called "MANEKI NEKO".
You will see the big male and female MANEKI NEKO in the precincts.
It is said that they bring a lot of good luck by raising the right hand high.

Do you want to take the benefit of matchmaking?
Here are some nice items.

< KOI MIKUJI > 200 yen

It's cute, isn't it?
This is the written oracle, which is very popular.

< EN MUSUBI OMAMORI > 800 yen/each

There are 9 colors in total.
Which one do you want?

< EN MUSUBI KAGAMI OMAMORI > 800 yen

By the reflected light of the sun,
the principal image appears on the surface.
How mysterious it is!!

Imado Shrine gains strong support from women who look for a good match.

Have you found out your partner yet?
Let's go to Imado Shrine to worship!!

Have you ever heard the word " Sakasa Fuji "?
"Sakasa Fuji " is the inverted image of Mt. Fuji which is reflected in the water.
Because it's very beautiful, Sakasa Fuji has been admired by Japanese for a long time.

Now,
a beautiful view which takes the place of Sakasa Fuji showed up in Asakusa.
That is " Sakasa Sky Tree ".

There's Kitajikken River just beside Tokyo Sky Tree.
The figure of Tokyo Sky Tree is reflected onto the water surface of this river.
Some bridges are laid over this river.
The most popular spot to see Sakasa Sky Tree is Jikken-bashi bridge.
On weekend, it is crowded with a lot of tourists who try to take the photo.
It's photographed between handrails of the bridge.

It is said that it's difficult to take a nice photo if it's windy.
The water surface wavers on the day when the wind blows.
Look !! It's also elegant, isn't it?

Do you want to take the photo of Sakasa Sky Tree?
The nearest station for Jikken-bashi bridge is Oshigami station.
You will reach the photo spot in 10 minutes walk from the station.

Catch the beautiful moment of Tokyo Sky Tree !!

Hagoita Ichi is held in Sensoji Temple from December 17th to 19th.
You can see many colorful and decorative Hagoita in the fair.

By the way,
do you know what Hagoita is?
Hagoita is Japanese traditional wooden racket.
It is originated from a Japanese tradition,
where girls would play the badminton-like game called HANETSUKI during New Year.
You hit a shuttlecock called "Hane" with Hagoita.
Hane resembles the dragonfly which eats mosquitoes.
As Hane indicates the mosquitoes,
Hagoita have the meaning of protection for the baby from something bad.

In Hagoita Ichi,
you will be surprised how various they are in size.
They represent a girl's growth, and also symbolize the health and safety.
Some celebrities such as sumo wrestler and athlete are used in the Hagoita design.
This shows admiration for people that have been successful during the year.

Some people put Hagoita at the front door to ward off the evil.
But now, most Japanese just use it as a decoration.

How about putting a Hagoita as the ornament in your room?

Sukiyaki is one of popular hotpot dishes in Japan.
The main ingredients are thinly sliced beef, tofu, starch noodles, and some vegetables.
It is simmered in a shallow iron pot with sweetened soy sauce.
The ingredients are dipped in the raw beaten egg, and you eat it.

Asakusa has the famous Sukiyaki restaurant, named "ASAKUSA IMAHAN".

In Edo era,
the beef was a special gift dedicated to the Shogun (the general).
As a health remedy to promote well being and vitality,
it was served exclusively to the privileged class.
When Meiji era came,
Asakusa , as the foremost entertainment district, was loved by many people.
Then, the founder of ASAKUSA IMAHAN paid attention to the potential of beef.
That's the year 1895, which means it has been more than a century since it set up as the beef cuisine.

Actually, ASAKUSA IMAHAN is pretty expensive.
Most of the menus are around 10,000 yen.
Thus, I recommend "Orange-street Branch Special Sukiyaki Meal Set".
It's 3,990 yen.

They have two branches : Orange-street Branch, and Kokusai-street Branch.
This one is only in Orange-street Branch.

For more information, please visit their web-site.
http://asakusaimahan.co.jp/english/index.html

It's a good idea to enjoy Sukiyaki as your happy memory of Japan.

Good News for you !!
The transportation between Asakusa and Narita Airport get more convenient.

Right now, you have four options to go to Narita Airport from Asakusa.

( 1 ) Narita Sky Access
You can take this train at Asakusa station of Toei Asakusa line.
You will get to the airport without a transfer.

( 2 ) Local train in Toei Asakusa & Keisei line
First of all, go to Aoto station by Toei Asakusa line.
At Aoto station, change to Keisei line for Narita Airport.

( 3 ) Keisei Skyliner
You can take Keisei Skyliner at Ueno station.
We suggest you to take a taxi to Ueno station.

( 4 ) Narita Express ( JR line )
If you have JR Pass holder, it's a good idea to take Narita Express at Tokyo station.
In order to get to Tokyo station from Asakusa,
you need to take Tsukuba Express line and change to JR Yamanote line at Akihabara station.

From December 1st,
you have one more option to go to Narita Airport.
It's Shuttle Bus Service !!

You need to make a reservation by on-line or telephone.
Only credit card payment is accepted.

The shuttle bus runs 8 transfers a day between Asakusa and Narita Airport everyday.
It means 4 round trips.
[ Asakusa -> Narita Airport ] leave at Asakusa on 7:15, 11:15, 12:45, and 16:45
[ Narita Airport -> Asakusa ] leave at the airport on 8:30, 9:30, 14:00, and 15:00

What's attractive is the price and location of the bus stop.
The price is only 1,000 yen for one-way trip.
The bus stop is in front of Beef Bowl restaurant "MATSUYA", where is 5 minutes walk from the hostel.
Now, you are not afraid to get lost, are you?

If you have a heavy luggage, this shuttle bus service is really convenient for you.
You don't have to carry it all the way from the train station to the hostel any more.

For more information about the shuttle bus, please visit the web-site below.
http://supershuttle.jp/en/

I hope this new service gives more people the chance to visit Asakusa.

Tori no Ichi is held on Rooster Day of Chinese zodiac every year.
In 2010, it's November 7th and 19th.
This event is held in Otori-jinja Shrine, which is the northern part of Asakusa.

A bamboo rake market is set up.
We call a bamboo rake "KUMADE" in Japanese.
The street stalls sell the bamboo rakes decorated with various lucky charms.
These are considered as the lucky charm in Japan.

　　　　

Why is it KUMADE which they started selling in Tori no Ichi?
It is said that KUMADE imitates the hawk's talons, which imagine the eagle grabbing a feed.
The action to rake up gives us the impression of grabbing the happiness.

　　　　

Many people visit Tori no Ichi every year to purchase a colorful KUMADE.
Get KUMADE, and "rake in" good luck !!

How many times have you ever been to Tokyo?
Did you go everywhere for sightseeing?

Now, I introduce another way to go sightseeing around Tokyo.

How about going down Sumida river by the water bus?

The terminal for sightseeing boat was renewed this summer.
Sumida River, Asahi Beer Tower, and Sky Tree....
The view from the glass window of waiting room is magnificent.
You will enjoy even the waiting time for the cruise.

There are 4 lines for the sightseeing boat.

< Sumida River Line >
It's about 40 minute voyage travelling around Sumida River.
12 bridges between Asakusa and Hinode Pier are all unique in color and shape.

　　　

< Asakusa-Odaiba Line >
The water bus named "HIMIKO" runs between Asakusa and Odaiba.
This water bus is designed by Reiji Matsumoto, who is one of the most famous cartoonists.

< Odaiba Line >
This line connects Hinode Pier to Odaiba Seaside Park.
Once you get off the water bus at Odaiba Seaside Parkt, there are plenty of spots to see and play.

< Tokyo Big Sight Pallette Town Line >
In Pallette Town,
you can enjoy the big ferris wheel, the car pavilion "MEGAWEB", and the shopping mall "Venus Fort".
It's also easy access to Tokyo Big Sight where various events are held.

In addition to the regular cruise,
there are Christmas Cruising and New Year Sunrise Cruising.
Why don't you spend romantic time on board while enjoying the beautiful night view?
How about greeting the new year on board at the moment when the sky and sea are slightly dyed to
vermilion?

　　

Web-site for the water bus is as follows :
http://www.suijobus.co.jp/index.html

We will be very happy if this provide you with useful information about seightseeing in Tokyo.

In Japan, November 3rd is Culture Day (Bunka no hi).
November 3rd was originally celebrated as a Meiji emperor's birthday.
It was also this day that the Japanese Constitution was proclaimed.
To commemorate both events, this day was established as a national holiday,
Culture Day is celebrated for “the love of freedom, peace and the promotion of culture”.

Tokyo Jidai Matsuri (Tokyo Festival of Historical Periods) were held in Asakusa today.
Foundation of Sensoji Temple in 628, Heian, Kamakura, Edo era,
Japan's Westernization movement during the Meiji era and modern era were reproduced in Asakusa.

According to the flow of the history, people with gorgeous costume marched around Asakusa ,
The scene of an ancient procession unrolled before a large crowd of spectators.

These three people are the ones who discovered the golden statues of the goddess of mercy
in the fishing net.
They have the title of honor named "SANJASAMA".

It is said that Military Commander : Minamoto no Yoritomo visited Sensoji to pray for the victory
in the battle.

Not only local people but also foreign people enjoyed this event.

Why don't you visit Japan for Tokyo Jidai Matsuri next year?

Happy Halloween !!
Do you go to Halloween party tonight?
What are you going to wear for the party?.......Witch? Black Cat?

How about disguising yourself as a totally traditional Japanese person?
Here are some costume goods that help you.

[ WIG ]

[ CLOTHING ]

[ SHOES ]

You can buy these goods in Asakusa.
Is it too late to make a suggestion?
If so, please keep my suggestion in mind for next year..

35.715725,139.796369
today's push

GRAND KABUKI MASTER　”Ichikawa Danjūrō IX”
Ichikawa Danjūrō, the ninth, was the torch-bearer of Kabuki during the long reign of the Emperor Mutsuhito, known as the Meiji era, which endured for forty-five years (1868-1912). Danjūrō, the ninth, was the bridge that spanned the sudden gulf which yawned between the traditional past and the uncertain and changing modern world. He may be regarded as the saviour of Kabuki during a period when it might have suffered shipwreck, had there not been a man of genius at the helm to guide the craft through the troubled waters

Do you like comedy show?
There's a place that you can see Japanese comedy show in Asakusa.
It's YOSHIMOTO ASAKUSA KAGETSU, where is 3 minutes walk from the hostel.
YOSHIMOTO is the most famous comedian management company in Japan.
Because the head office is in Osaka, almost all comedians speak Osaka dialect.

Our guests had extra two tickets for today, and they gave those tickets to us.
It is too good chance to waste the tickets.
Aki & I went to see the comedy show.

　

When we got there, the show had already started.
We could only see one comedian pair, who were "NAKATA KAUSU BOTAN".
They are experienced comedians, who are famous especially in Osaka area.

Many people guffaw, and we also enjoyed the show very much.
We really appreciate our guests who gave the tickets.

If you study Japanese, it's going to be a good experience to hear Osaka dialect.
or
If you simply love comedy, it's interesting to compare Japanese comedy with the one in your country.

Look at this cute bus!!

The name of this Panda bus is Nin Nin.
It is the free shuttle bus running around Asakusa area.

Inside of the bus is like this.

Don't you want to sit on this lovely seat?

You can get on the bus at Hanayashiki Amusement Park which is next to Sakura hostel.
This shuttle bus passes Kaminarimon, Tawaramachi station, and Tokyo Cruise Line.
These 3 bus stops are near Asakusa station of Asakusa line, Ginza line and Tobu line.
The bus runs every 40 minutes although there's irregular operation during 1 pm.

If you are too lazy to walk to the station, it's good transportation for you!!

There is a more convenient way to get to the Narita International Airport NOW.
The Sky Access Route debuted on 17th of July this year.
Thanks to the new route, you can reach to the Narita Airport around 20-30min faster than the past from Asakusa station.
And it is direct train which means you don't have to stumble with your heavy suitcase or backpack.

We made Time Table&Information board for our guests.

It is really simple.
Just go to Asakusa Line Asakusa Staion and buy one ticket for Narita Airport through Sky Access route
Price is 1240yen.

You can buy ticket by yourself by following steps below.(recommend: Left)
(And previous route is still available, 1060yen, 80min-90min, cheapest way)

For more detail, you can visit our website below

http://www.sakura-hostel.co.jp/hostel_location_map.htm

We hope you to have pleasant trip from the Airport.

Do you know there is a famous pudding shop in Asakusa which appeared in guidebooks, magazines and TV show many times.

"Asakusa Silk Pudding (浅草シルクプリン)" is just so yummy!
They have 9 flavors of pudding such as milk, black sesame, caramel, green tea, strawberry, coffee, cheese, chocolate and royal milk tea. What a tempting selection!

They stick to a material and the recipe, and the pudding is as smooth as silk, true to its name.

Why not try them!?

...　（￣▽￣）

Here it is!!

I had green tea flavor. If you're interested in Japan, you must know how Japanese people love Maccha, and this is the one you should try!

Jack liked his black sesame pudding very much. The sweet sauce at the bottom is the most delicious part!

The one Ryoko chose is "Premium Milk Pudding" which has the most rich taste and the most expensive one! (500 yen) Yeah, it was actually really good!

Oh boss, don't get me wrong! We are not goofing off at work. We had to eat them to recommend our guests this lovely Asakusa sweets =P

My recommendation is ....

夏の家(Natsu no ya)

It is very close to the Hanayashiki-Park and I go there a lot for lunch!
The people are very nice and cheery. And of course the food is fresh and GOOD and they have very good prices too!

(Protip: Ask them for the name of the restaurant.)

Last time I had Sashimi:

美味しいよ！

Here is the way from the Kuramae (蔵前) Station to Sakura Hostel
so you can see how it looks like in the morning:

Guess how much this bento box is!

It is.....

2

5

0

Yen!!!

A bento box usually costs at least 500 yen.
(In case you don't know much about prices in Japan...
A set menu at McDonald's with a hamburger, French fries and a drink, is about 600 yen.)

But this place sells all the bento boxes for 250 yen.

"Paku Paku" is the name of this bento shop. It's only 5 minutes from the hostel.
The taste is "OK", nothing special. But the price is really special.

"Andesu" has same pronounciation with "The Andes" in South America.
And it mean far different from it's meaning.
It is a Bakery with red bean cream in the bread called "ANPAN" in Japanese.

This name from quit unique origin. "AN"means "Red bean cream" in Japanese.
And "DESU"means "IS or BE".,so it means "This is AN or ANPAN"

Originally, there was a retailer for "AN" and a retailer for bread ("PAN"in Japanese).
These two married and made a bakery called "Andesu".

They also serve some other sweets and products from red bean and normal bakery.
And teast good. you will enjoy!!!!

It is 5minute walk from hostel. go and get some "ANPAN"lol

There is a new member from Germany from today on for the next 2 months. I think if I get used to everything we can have a good time here.
I walked around Asakusa to learn about the place and took a few photos for you:

You can walk through the "Nakamise Street" to the "Sensouji Temple":

The temple area is just beyond the gate...

... but it is under construction at the moment

This is how it looks like:

And this is the garden around the temple:

Look at this beautiful buildings:

There even is a Gegege no Kitarou House:

And this is me with Naoto-san

Tsuyoshi's recommended lunch restraint is....

Hakonesoba!!


This is a chain soba (buckwheat noodle) restaurant. It is just right across to Kaminarimon Gate.
You can eat soba (or udon) noodle standing up cheaply.
Put the money into the ticket machine, and pick out what you want.
Japanese people love to eat a cold soba noodle for summer time.
Don't forget! Soba should be slurped up with gusto, noisily in Japan.

土古里 浅草店-recommend by Jack
Korean restaurant for spicy-food lovers

Togori
I recommend lunch menu for budget traveller.
Around 1000yen for lunch.

Korean food is normally spicy because koreans love to feel hot teast with a lot of sweat in summer.
You can try some real korean food if you ask them.
Usually, they serve mild korean food because it is too hot for Japanese.

大黒屋(Daikokuya)

They have the best Tendon (Tempura with rice bowl)

This Tendon looks darker than a normal one, but the taste is actually not salty at all.
The price for one Tendon is 1500 yen, but it is worth to pay!
You should try Tokyo's Best Tendon!!!

Time for experience Tokyo's hot festival again!
鳥越まつり Torigoe Matsuri

Torigoe shrine is an old shrine with a 1350 year history, and the night festival,
called Torigoe Matsuri is famous for its large portable shrine,

The main portable shrine (Mikoshi) decorated with paper lanterns for this matsuri is
the biggest Mikoshi in Tokyo.
The weight is over 4 tons! Can you believe that?
Let's get together to experience the wonderful Japanese Matsuri atmosphere.

Torigoe Matsuri
Date: June 5-June 6
Time: 7pm-9pm
Place: Torigoe Shrine, Kuramae (Just 1 station from our hostel)

Why don't you try betting on a horse race?

Today, the biggest horse racing, Tokyo Derby was held in Tokyo.
The Tokyo Derby is the biggest Japanese thoroughbred horse race.
There is a big building, called WINS where you can buy a trifecta.

It's just one minute walk from our hostel.

Weekends are usually crawded like this

Tsuyoshi and Jumbo Shrimp got a trifecta.

There were 12 races, and each race took just 3 mins.
Intense moment...

Oh nooooooo

When you lost the game, just rip off the trifecta. That makes you feel little bit better. lol

Once you start watching a horse race, you will be hooked on.
Tsuyoshi and Shrimp def will try another round to revenge!

Are you obsessd with cats?
Do you want to chill out with lovely felines?
This is the best option for you.

''Cat Cafe''
This is a quite popular cafe in Japan.
If you want to get your stress out, you should stop by a cat cafe and get energy.
There is a cat cafe near from our hostel, too.
''Cat cafe Asakusa Nekoen''
http://asakusanekoen.web.officelive.com/ENGLISH.aspx

Entrance fee 800 yen per hour
Open: 11 am-9pm
Closed: Tuesday

Also, check out this funny cat video.
This is my favorite cat video called ''Stalking Cat.''

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fzzjgBAaWZw

He is playing a Japanese game, ''Darumasan ga Koronda'' (It is silmular to the freeze game).
What a genius cat!!

Hello.
Today is the final day of "Sanja Matsuri"
So many people in Happi in Asakusa.

Too much !!

And I tried to take a picture of Mikoshi(portable shrines) for this blog.
But I could not find it.
Where is it ?
Are Men taking a rest now?

But, no problem.
I'm very happy because there are a lot of food stalls.

Taste is terrific !

When I came back to hostel, Tomoe was angry.
"Why didn't you take any pictures of Mikoshi ?"

I'm sorry.
Please forgive me, this is a present, Takoyaki(octopus dumpling) for you.

Asakusa is ready for Sanja Matsuri!
Everywhere in Asakusa has decorated a special lantern (called Chochin in Japanese) of Sanja Matsuri,
like the arcade near from our hostel.

Both side of the arcade has so many lanterns.

Let's put the ちょうちん(Chouchin) in front of our hostel, too!
Nice pose, Tsuyoshi lol

Ta-da???

Popular Japanese Udon company ''はなまるうどん'' （English signs read MANMARU)
opened a new store for Expo 2010 Shanghai in China!
Hanamaru is a popular fast food Udon chain restaurant in Japan.
The cheapest Udon bowl is just 105 yen.
Their udon noodle is firm and tasty.
Besides Udon, they offer a self service Tempura bar, curry & rice, and beef bowl.

So many varieties of Tempura!

What is good about Udon is that Udon noodles have almost no fat.
Compared to Ramen noodle soup, Udon noodle soup is based on fish soup.　
Which means, no cholesterol! Good for your beer belly.

Their popular menu is Udon bowl with half boiled egg.
Japanese people love to eat raw eggs, but for Chinese, they don't get used to eat raw eggs.
Let me make sure. Half boiled egg in Udon is awesome!
Try once. You have to trust me.

Here is their menu,
http://www.hanamaruudon.com/company_outline/company3.html
You can find their branch store near from our hostel.
Access map: http://r.tabelog.com/tokyo/A1311/A131102/13041635/dtlmap/

Yabusame, or the horseback archery that takes place in Asakusa,
has a very long history, and it is held annually in April.

During the Edo era, it was held every year on January 5
as one of the New Year's special events at Asakusa Shrine.

This event has been described in detail in such historic documents
as Sensoji-shi (A History of Sensoji Temple) and
Toto-saijiki (The Chronicle of the East Capital).

Today, Asakusa Yabusame follows the traditional style recreated with
the cooperation of the head of the Ogasawara School of Archery and Horsemanship,
and it’s held at Sumida Park at 10 am.
Don't miss it!!

Last Tuesday was a cultural day(national holiday) and we had an event around us.
As it was a beautiful day, I took a walk to take some photos♪

On the way to the festival, I found Ninjya!

Actually, they often appear around our hostel.
If you see them, just say hi or ask for a photo;)

Jidai Matsuri (Tokyo Historical Parade) is a costume procession which recalls
Tokyo's history and culture from the Heian era to the Meiji era.

They are from Army Procurement Agency of Japan↓↓

He is Tokugawa Yoshinobu, the last shogun of the Edo government.

On my way back, I found "Mito-Komon" and his delegation.

They are very very famous characters among Japanese irrespective of age and sex.

(Kaminarimon Gate which you usually see)

(Kaminarimon Gate that I saw today)

Choose a WRONG example from below as a rare occasion on which the lantern of Kaminarimon Gate gets folded.

A. When a big typhoon is coming to hit the city
B. When a mikoshi (portable shrine) is coming to go through the gate
C. When Tsuyoshi is coming to go through the gate

Wow, where did you guys get it??

You can hide yourselves behind it.

They bought it on Nakamise street in Asakusa (5 min. from the hostel).
I'm wondering how they took it home.

This is Asakusa at 1:00PM in the middle of Silver Week (the 5-day national holiday week in this September).

Asakusa is one of the most popular tourists' destinations in Japan.
A bunch of people come from all over the nation and world to Asakusa for sightseeing.
They look happy walking slowly and enjoying our neighborhood.

It would be great if we could have a narrow passage for me and Yuri to walk quickly to the hostel when in hurry...

Should we build our private tunnel, Yuri?

Did you know that you can ride on this cute Panda bus?↑↑
I was just wondering where it goes around but Tsuyoshi told me that
anyone can take this for free♪
He should have told me earlier:(

Anyway, this bus is available in fromt of Hanayashiki amusement park (1min from our hostel!)
and it goes to Asakusa station and the ferry landing as well.

Inside is like this...normal:)

The driver was funny guy and he gave us some questions.
If you have the correct answer, you'll get the free bus coupon for a year! :P
He speaks only Japanese, though.

Now, I got a free ride to the station★
Timetable is available at our hostel, so please feel free to ask us;)

Now, we have one of the biggest Festivals in Tokyo starting from 15th
and it's the last day today!
When I walked through the Sensoji temple at 6:30 in the morning,
so many people were already there and waiting for Mikoshi's set out.

Eiro, who loves this festival dropped by with his friends.
This is a kind of uniform for Japanese traditional festival.
Aren't they cool?

Fortunately, rain had stopped and people would have parties
here and there until midnight:)

This coming Saturday, we have Tori no Ichi Fair and it is the final one for this year.
What's Tori no Ichi Fair?
Click here→http://www.torinoichi.jp/english/index.htm

This morning, I learned about it from the TV and it said like this.
The first time you buy Kumade(below↓), you should choose the smalｌest one.

And every year, you should buy a bigger one than the last year.
Then, you can earn much money than the last year★

It was sooo great event and I enjoyed a lot though I didn't have enough knowledge of
this traditional dance.
All geiko-san were dancing very gorgeously with beautuful kimono.
It looked not so difficult but must be so hard!

I went there with Tomo and Yaeko(cleaning staff).
Geiko-san threw tenugui (towel) from the stage and Tomo and Yaeko got it from them!
What about me?

Taking pictures was not allowed during the performance...this is the theater↓↓

Thank you, Eiro!

How do you understand what Geisha girls are?
I don't know much about them.
Eiro's mother is a teacher of Geiko and he sometimes tells us about them.
Geisha is formally called Geiko and
you may be able to see them around Asakusa town.

On the 28&29th of Oct, they have a big event, "Asakusa Odori".
Beautiful geisha ladies show their skills.
You can see their traditional performance with a reasonable ticket:)
Reserved ticket is \6,500 and unreserved one is only \2,000!!

Tomo and I am going there;)
Would you like to go with us?

You might have seen this golden dragon dance on this weblog several times.

I think I can say it is a kind of symbol of Sensouji temple.
It's very heroic and gorgeous dance and worth to see once☆

This coming Saturday, we'll have a big event and golden dragon will be there!
Also, parade of local kids would be cute;)

I'm going to take a good picture of it!

What's more Asakusa than Sensouji temple.
It was erected originally in 1649 but was burned down by air raid on Tokyo.
It took 7years and 5 months to rebuild it.

In commemoration of the 50th anniversary, they will make their special items in public
such as Kannon statue and wooden plaques.
Also, Denpo-in garden will be open for the people during this event.
As normally, we can't go inside the garden, it will be a good chance to everyone!

It seems next month will be a special month in Asakusa.
You gotta come to Tokyo!

I found something huge box behind Sensoji temple this morning.
Normally, there is nothing and just an empty space.
The poster says, "Heisei Nakamura-za" and I noticeｄ that we can see Kabuki play right here!!
Heisei Nakamura-za(平成中村座） is very very popular Kabuiki actors group and
they play all over the world such as New York.

It will start from the 2nd of Oct. to the 25th of Nov.
If you are coming to Tokyo, I really recommend you to watch their play!
I was so touched when I viewed it.
Even though you don't unerstand Japanese at all, you can still enjoy its atmosphere;)

It was the 28th Samba Carnival today at Asakusa.
What's more Samba than Brazil?
I thought so but we have a big Samba team from Colombia here!
They looked very excited when they left for that event this morning♪

They are super friendly and have big smiles:)

Have you seen their dancing?

As they were the first team of the carnival, they just came back and started party.

I hope they would come back in the next year again☆

On the 26th of July, we'll have a big big summer event,
Sumida River Fireworks Festival!
As long as you are in Tokyo, you can't miss it!

Fireworks are shooted off from two different places, and one place will have a contest.
You can enjoy about 20,000 fireworks!!

Let's wear Yukata and join to our Hanabi party!
It will start around 5:30 here at the Sakura hostel Asakusa.
Guests of our sister hotels (Jimbo-cho, Ikebukuro, Hatagaya)
and tenants of Sakura House are all welcomed:)

Today and tomorrow, we have Hozuki-ichi (Chinese Lantern Plant Fair)
at Sensoji temple.
There are a numners of stalls around the temple and sell Hozuki
as if they were competing against each others.

It has a cute wind bell↑↑

Also, we can find many stalls for foods there such as
cotton candy, yakitori, takoyaki and so on.

I heard that if you visit Sensoji temple during this fair,
it worth 46,000 times you pray☆
I did already;)

Are you interested in plants or already into gardening?
Every three times a year, Sengen shrine(a 5-minute walk from here) has a plant fair.

Around that shrine, there will be about 350 open booths and it saids that
plants you buy there grow very well.

The first two was over but the last one is on the 1st of July.
If you have a time, why don't you take a look?
It will be fun!

We had a memorial service for the fire fighters behind Sensoji temple today.

There is the monument for firefighters who had died on their duties.
On the 25th of May, we have this ceremony for them every year.
As part of this event, they have a parade of firemen in traditional garb.
Also, you can see their performance that dramatic and unusual acrobatics
(hashigonori) atop twenty-two-foot-high bamboo ladders.

The Mikoshi (portable shrine) just passed in front of Sakura Hostel this morning!
I left Jack at the reception and took many pictures with our guests:P

Each town has their own Mikoshi (and Happi, too), so I saw many in the afternoon.
The call of people who are carrying Mikoshi is very cool!
As this is one of the biggest Festivals in Tokyo,
people get excited♪

Hiromi, who is the festival girl, dropped by here to say hello:)
She also carried Mikoshi this year again.

Sanja Matsuri Festival just started today.
Tomorrow around noon, mikoshi (portable shrines) parades will start at Sensoji Temple, and they carry mikoshi all over Asakusa.

Bell is located in front of Asakusa Public Hall.
This restaurant is popular among locals.
You'll enjoy lovely meals at reasonable price.