Asakusa Micro

Just north of Senso-ji is Kannonura, an area that once flourished as Asakusa’s geisha district. Walking along Fuji-dori, look for the mirror ball hanging outside. Asakusa Micro is a unique little spot that brings together a standing bar, antiques, records and music under one roof. Its Japanese name is written 三玄路 (Micro), expressing the idea of a place where people with a deep passion for three different worlds cross paths. Built around drinks, antiques and music, Micro opened in December 2019.

Owner Makoto Akahori worked at Blue Note when he was younger before moving into interior design and construction. After running a restaurant in Kiyosumi-Shirakawa, he began searching for a historic neighborhood where he could create a distinctly Japanese space. He eventually found Kannonura, drawn to its traces of the old geisha district and its collection of independent, individualistic shops.

The shop occupies a former garage that Akahori renovated himself. An old cabinet he found at an antique shop in Gifu sits alongside traditional lattice doors, a counter and a DJ booth, creating a space where old and new blend naturally.

At the U-shaped standing counter, guests can enjoy sake, Japanese gin and whisky alongside food. The menu includes dishes made with house-fermented ingredients, as well as Edo-inspired dishes such as “Yoshiwara Meshi” and “Tamago Fuwafuwa.”

Antiques are also available to buy, with a selection centered on old Japanese tableware and everyday objects. The pieces are chosen not simply for their age, but for their interesting design and the way they can still be enjoyed in everyday life. Records are also sold in the shop. Micro also hosts DJ events and art exhibitions, bringing together drinks, antiques, records, music and art in a single space. The shop creates original products including Japanese tea, incense and tenugui hand towels, working with local craftspeople and artists to express Asakusa and Japanese culture through Micro’s own perspective. Come for a drink, browse the antiques and records, or enjoy the music and art. Packed with different ways to experience the neighborhood in one small space, Asakusa Micro is a cultural crossroads in Kannonura.