Even if you do not like cooking, there is plenty to see at Kappabashi, a kitchen shopping street known for its concentration of restaurant supply stores. You can find almost anything related to cooking, from aprons to refrigerated showcases, from knives to fake plastic food. Do you want dishes for your table or decorated bags for giving chocolates? All these things and more are for sale in the 170 stores along this street, which parallels the Asakusa entertainment district.
The 800-meter (about 1/2 mile) long section of road has arcades covering the sidewalks, making it a good choice for browsing in rainy weather. Most stores are open from 9 am to 5 pm. They are open weekdays, with most closed on Sundays and a large percent closed on Saturdays. Individual store hours vary, so if there is a specific one you are looking for, it is good to confirm before you go.
The closest stations are the Tawaramachi Station serving the Tokyo Metro Ginza line, and the Asakusa Station serving the Toei Subway Asakusa line and the Tokyo Metro Ginza line. For more information: http://www.e-kappa.jp/eng/index.html
photos by: pelican & Sberlazza, Shadowgate