Now that the hot summer has passed, it’s the perfect time to visit “Asakusa Hanayashiki,” Asakusa’s entertainment playground! Practically next to Sensoji Temple, the oldest temple in Tokyo, Hanayashiki is the oldest amusement park in Tokyo - and all of Japan!

Originally opened as a flower park in 1853, Hanayashiki boasted rows and rows of peonies and chrysanthemums. It was rebuilt in 1949 after the earthquake and the war, and currently operates as an amusement park with about 20 attractions and eating areas. Considering that it first opened its doors the same time that Commodore Perry visited Japan, it is no surprise that Hanayashiki is the oldest in Japan!

Home to the oldest roller coaster in Japan, Hanayashiki offers a wide range of attractions. To name a few, Little Star, a ride that might have you seeing stars from dizziness, Pyong Pyong, a bouncy ride that will keep you feeling bouncy, and House of Surprise, which, as the name suggests, will keep you guessing what will happen next.

Visitors can enjoy a good selection of amusement park food fare including fried octopus dumplings, curry with 48 kinds of spice, long sausage hotdogs, and even burgers from Dom Dom Hamburger, the oldest burger shop (and burger chain!) in Japan.

Come spend the afternoon at Asakusa Hanayashiki and enjoy the thrills at this long-loved amusement park!