Asakusabashi

In olden days, Asakusabashi once marked part of the eastern border of the country, Musashi, from wherein Edo (now "Tokyo") grew. Though Musashi had ceased to exist, Asakusabashi continued on as a wholesale-retail area that eventually became part of Edo/Tokyo. Nowadays, Asakusabashi is commonly known as the quaint business district sandwiched between Akihabara ("Electric Town") to the West and Ryogoku ('Sumo Town') to the East. Essentially a merchant district, it carries goods such as toys, stationery, jewelry accessories, bead craft supplies, festival regalia, and Japanese dolls. The good news is it caters to both retailers and individual patrons.

 Kanda "river" (think man-made canal) near where it drains into Sumida River.

 Edo dori - one of the main roads in Asakusabashi.

 The areas (on both sides) under the train tracks are atmospheric and enchanting.

 A large doll shop.

 Another large doll shop.

 Some of the dolls ("ningyou") on sale. Commonly, the hinanigyou are sold for the Girls' Festival (March 3rd) and the gogatsuningyou for the Boys' Festival (May 5th).

 Chain burger store.

Very common to see rows of bikes like this in various places in Tokyo. Note the no bicycle parking sign. Hehe.

 A handwritten access map of the local area.

 A local eatery.

 A local izakaya - casual drinking establishment also serving food to go with the drinks.

 One of the more unusual things I found in Asakusabashi - samurai Darth Vader!

 お前の父は私だ - "I am your father"

Guts in the Berserker Armour