Japan: Asakusa

Another monk seeking alms.

Green tea ice cream and sweet beans wrapped in a pancake.

Asahi brewery.  Is it just me or does that remind anyone else of a sperm?

Kaminaron Gate.

Asakusa, is one of the few places in Tokyo that has managed to preserve the atmosphere and essence of traditional Japan.  It's famous for it's many temples and shrines, and is home to the Sanja Matsuri festival Traditionally this festival is to be held on the 3rd weekend in May.  Unfortunately, this year the festival was cancelled due to the recent tragedy of the earth quake and tsunami.  We were looking forward to participating in the festival but understand that this is a time of mourning for the Japanese people.  However, Asakusa has much more to offer than just the Sanja Matsuri.  It's major attraction is Sensoji Temple, Tokyo's largest and oldest temple.  The pathway leading up to the temple is called Nakamise street and it's is lined with literally hundreds of stalls selling all manner of religious trinkets, souvenir's, and food.  As we made our way down this street, off in the distance, we could see the great Kaminarimon Gate with it's giant red chochin (lantern).  The three of us passed under the gateway and immediately you were able to see the main shrine of Sensoji temple.  In front of the shrine stood huge stone urn which devotees placed neatly wrapped bundles of incense.  We followed the procession of people the best we could and did our best to do as they did.  I'm sure we stuck our like a sore thumb but it was fun anyways.  :)

Nakamise Street.

The main shrine of Sensoji temple.