Sensoji is the oldest temple in Tokyo and probably the number one tourist destination. But did you know that right there on the temple grounds is a kindergarten? I happened to be in Asakusa on a weekday, skipping off work (shhh…don’t tell anyone), and came across this huge congregation of mothers waiting to pick up their kids. I could not believe how many mothers there were in front of the kindergarten. There must have been 100+ bicycles parked on the grounds which means there are at least as many kids attending the kindergarten. I don’t know much about kindergartens in Japan but this one must be a mega-kindergarten judging from the size. Speaking of Asakusa, the Sanja Matsuri is happening this weekend so if you are into watching some mikoshi-carrying action and don’t mind the crowds why not head to Asakusa to check it out.
When I went to Kyoto a few of the temples we went to seemed to have schools in them too, but I didn’t know that Sensoji had a school too. I was there for a few days and I didn’t see it >.<;
I remember going to Asakusa in 2001 when I was in Tokyo. It was kind of interesting and Sensoji is definitely worth seeings. However, the main thing that I recall about Asakusa was that, compared to the other parts of Tokyo, it seemed run down, a bit dirty, and gloomy. Maybe it was just me. I remember all the restaurants and shops being kind of trashy and lower than tourist standards. Maybe I was imagining things. I found Marunouchi and the west side of the city to be much brighter and more interesting.
Andrew, I’ve been to Sensoji a thousand times and I never noticed the school until now!
Mike, Asakusa is the “shitamachi” area which is the older part of Tokyo and more working class. Generally, the east side of the Tokyo is shitamachi. It does seem “rundown” but that is the charm of the area. It’s more local and has deeper cultural roots unlike the other newer commercial areas. Right after WW2, Asakusa used to be the main spot for night life. Personally, I like the older shops and restaurants which have survived all the generations without changing.
Ah hah! When I visited in 2005, I did see some kids playing in a fenced off area near the temple…it was fun watching them play what we call British Bulldogs here in Oz. Never did I realise it was a kindergarten.
And yes, I really enjoyed the atmosphere of Asakusa. We followed the walking tour of the area (from where the ferry pier is)…very nice. And the shops have some real character.
Thanks for the post…some amazing stuff that you dig up.