Toys Terao

Tucked into the historic Asakusa neighborhood just steps from Senso-ji temple, Toys Terao is a beloved old-school toy shop that has been delighting families for generations. The store specializes in traditional Japanese toys — think tin robots, wooden spinning tops, kaleidoscopes, papier-mache figures, and an assortment of playful novelties that feel like a living time capsule of Japanese toy culture.

For families visiting Tokyo, this is the kind of shop that makes kids slow down and actually look at everything. Unlike the flashy electronics stores in Akihabara, Toys Terao has a warmth and nostalgia that appeals to parents and children alike. Many items are affordable enough to serve as authentic, made-in-Japan souvenirs — far more meaningful than something from the airport gift shop.

The shop is open every day from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, so it's easy to build into a morning Asakusa itinerary. After browsing, walk the famous Nakamise shopping street for street food and traditional snacks before heading into the temple grounds. Combine this stop with a rickshaw ride or a visit to the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center observation deck for sweeping views of the neighborhood.