Sumida

About Sumida

Situated in the northeastern part of Tokyo, Sumida has transitioned from a manufacturing and craftsmanship center during the Edo period (1603–1868) to a district featuring both historical charm and modern architecture. Notable for traditional festivals, temples, and the iconic Tokyo Skytree, Sumida represents Tokyo’s dynamism. The Tokyo Skytree, standing as the world’s tallest tower and the second tallest structure at 634 meters, is a landmark of Japan’s capital.

The Tokyo Skytree serves as an observation tower, broadcasting center, and has restaurant facilities. It incorporates traditional Japanese architectural elements and advanced seismic proofing technologies, signifying the blend of Japan’s heritage and technological progress.

Sumida celebrates its artistic history through venues like the Sumida Hokusai Museum, dedicated to the renowned ukiyo-e artist Katsushika Hokusai. The district’s cultural scene includes galleries and the annual Sumida River Fireworks Festival, which has been a tradition since the 18th century.

While the Edo-Tokyo Museum provides insights into Tokyo’s history, it features a distinctive design intended to evoke a sense of historical continuity. Moreover, the nearby Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s oldest and most revered temples, contributes to the area’s historical significance.

The area around Tokyo Skytree, known as Tokyo Solamachi, offers a shopping complex with traditional crafts, regional foods, and a planetarium. Additionally, the Sumida Aquarium within Tokyo Skytree Town showcases marine biodiversity and ecological conservation efforts.

Sumida is a district where the past and present of Tokyo converge, offering a glimpse into the city’s ongoing cultural evolution. It is a place of both historical depth and contemporary innovation.