The Mystery of Asakusa! What’s the “Golden Object” on Top of the Building?

When you think of Asakusa, the historic Sensoji Temple and Kaminarimon Gate probably come to mind. But there’s one more thing you shouldn’t forget—the “golden object” floating along the Sumida River. Yes, that sculpture on top of the building, known as the “Golden Flame” or even the “Golden Poop.” I’m sure many people were surprised and thought, “What is this!?” when they first saw it.

The Sudden Appearance of the “Golden Flame” in Asakusa
This quirky object was completed in 1989 and instantly became a topic of conversation thanks to its unique shape. In fact, the building it sits on is none other than the headquarters of Japan’s beer company, Asahi Beer! Locals and tourists alike recognize it as the “symbol of Asahi Beer,” although it’s also the butt of jokes, with some calling it the “art on top of the toilet.” It’s pretty much guaranteed to be mentioned in every tourist guide.

A Great Photo Spot
If you’re exploring Asakusa, I totally recommend taking a photo with this object in the background. Especially at night when it’s lit up, it has a magical vibe that’s completely different from how it looks in the daytime. There’s also a perfect spot along the Sumida River walkway where you can snap a pic with both the golden object and the Tokyo Skytree in the same frame—talk about an amazing shot!

How to Enjoy the Sky Lounge & Bar
Plus, inside the building, there’s a sky lounge and bar run by Asahi Beer. The beer here, especially the Asahi Super Dry, tastes even better with the stunning panoramic view of Asakusa from the lounge. It’s the perfect place to take a break with a cold beer in hand while enjoying the sights during your Asakusa adventure.

In Conclusion
The mix of Asakusa’s old-time charm and the bold, modern design of the Asahi Beer headquarters makes this area super interesting. After soaking in the history and traditional culture at the temples, why not check out this contemporary art symbol, and then relax in the sky lounge with a refreshing beer? Next time you’re in Asakusa, make sure to uncover the mystery of the “Golden Object” and enjoy a drink at the lounge!