Beyond the Crowds: A Sacred Blessing and Hidden Tea Ceremony in Asakusa

There’s an interesting point in life when you find yourself somewhere, doing an activity you never imagined possible. It's an existential moment. You may have that surreal memory, where you ask yourself, “Did that really happen?” or “Was it a scene in a movie I once saw?”

This happened to me recently in Asakusa, an area of Tokyo that is typically tourists' first stop upon arrival. The hustle and bustle of the long street filled with shops selling trinkets, food, and souvenirs lead to the great Senso-ji. It is an iconic scene, one many will recognize, even if they have never been to Japan.

Stepping Beyond the Asakusa Everyone Knows

I’ve always liked Asakusa. There are some great spots around the main area. Although it’s completely overrun with tourists, a few hidden gems remain tucked away in and about the town. From the charming Yatai-style izakayas on Hoppy Street to the historical back alleys of Yoshiwara (the old red light district), there is much to see outside that one main street.

However, I never thought there would be not just more but a whole other side to one of Tokyo’s most iconic neighborhoods.

So when we at Untold Japan were given the opportunity to meet a gentleman, who could be described as the "Chairman of the Asakusa Appreciation Society," I was excited about what would be revealed.

A Personal Temple Blessing at Asakusa Shrine

Our day started with a meet and greet outside Asakusa Shrine, just a stone's throw from Senso-ji. Surprisingly, very few people know about it. I had no idea what was going to happen. So, when I was escorted into the shrine and met by its head priest, I was asked a few questions about what I would like to pray for, the name of our company, and other details.

I didn't realize that I would be taken into another room and asked to wear a ceremonial garment. It was then that it struck me—they would be blessing me. I had seen this happen from the outside, but this was my first time stepping into the shrine's heart and being part of a sacred ritual.

Guided by the priest, I participated in a prayer for the growth and success of our company. It was an honor to be part of such an experience. Although I am not religious, the spirituality and warmth of being there were extraordinary. After the ritual concluded, I received a small charm. I left feeling blessed, clean, and invigorated.

A Hidden Kimono Store and a Private Tea Ceremony

From the temple, our guide took us to his kimono store. It’s located on the 9th floor of a building off the main road in Asakusa. This isn’t your standard kimono rental place. You need an attendant to get you in through those doors. The store boasted exquisite fabrics and kimonos. The pieces ranged from traditional to modern patterns, with prices from hundreds to even tens of thousands of dollars.

Before we browsed through the collection, we were led to the back where a beautiful Japanese-style room was hidden. There, we were offered tea and treated to a full tea ceremony.

Our attendee, a man in his 70s, sat us down one by one. He performed the tea ceremony with absolute precision and perfection. Drinking matcha from a 300-year-old cup (Raku Porcelain, found in Kyoto) was itself an honor. But it was the trust and respect I felt to be able to soak in this whole day that truly moved me.

Moments You Cannot Simply Buy

These experiences are rare. They cannot simply be bought with money. Such honors come from years of building relationships, mutual respect, and a profound love for a culture that values tradition.

I have lived in Japan for 17 years now, and I am still uncovering the untold stories, even in places that seem well-trodden. Behind a door, down an alley, or just turning a corner can whisk you away from the crowds into an out-of-body, movie-esque experience.

Asakusa still has secrets left to share, if you know where to look.

This story is just the beginning. Stay tuned as we continue uncovering the hidden sides of Asakusa, from the art of the kimono to an unforgettable private cruise along the Sumida River.