Step back in time and immerse yourself in the historic city to visit Kawagoe.
This city is often referred to as “Little Edo.”
Kawagoe, a town you can easily visit as a day trip, offers a glimpse into the Edo period with its historical charm and also lets you experience the nostalgic atmosphere of the Taisho era, making it feel like stepping back in time.
Explore the nostalgic streets, savor traditional sweets, and discover the rich cultural heritage that makes Kawagoe a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Kawagoe has plenty of places to explore, making it a great destination for a day trip from Tokyo. Its convenient location allows you to enjoy all its sights and experiences without needing an overnight stay. If you’re interested in a suggested day trip itinerary from Tokyo to Kawagoe, click here.
And if you have the budget and are considering venturing farther to Kyoto, this article will surely help you discover must-visit spots! It covers not only the best sightseeing destinations but also some great restaurant recommendations, so be sure to check it out!
What is Kawagoe
Kawagoe is a historic city located in Saitama Prefecture, Japan, just north of Tokyo.
This city is often referred to as “Little Edo” (小江戸, Koedo), Kawagoe is known for its well-preserved Edo-period (1603-1868) architecture, which offers a glimpse into Japan’s past.
The city’s streets are lined with traditional kurazukuri building which means clay-walled warehouse-style in Edo Period.
Kawagoe is famous for its cultural landmarks, such as the Toki no Kane (Time Bell Tower), a symbol of the city, and the Kita-in Temple, which houses the only remaining structures of the original Edo Castle.
Due to its proximity to Tokyo, Kawagoe is a popular day-trip destination for both locals and tourists who want to experience the charm of old Japan without venturing far from the capital.
How to access Kawagoe from Tokyo
There are many ways to access it and you can access it there to use train and bus.
The cheapest way to get there from Shinjuku Station is by taking on the Seibu-Shinjuku line heading to Honkawagoe (Cost: ¥720) and it would take 1 and a half hours.
The fastest way to get there is by taking JR Saikyo-Line(Cost: ¥858) and it would take 1 hour.
What can you enjoy there
Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine
Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine is a revered Shinto shrine with a history that spans over 1,500 years.
This shrine is dedicated to deities associated with love and marriage, making it a popular destination for couples and those seeking romantic blessings.
It is also a great place for couples or married couples to visit. In the summer, small parasols spread across the entire street, creating a visually soothing atmosphere. Be sure to visit this lovely spot!
Taisho Roman Yume-dori
Taisho Roman Yume-dori is a must-visit for those who want to experience a different side of Kawagoe, one that celebrates the blend of past and present, and offers a taste of Japan’s cultural history in a delightful and picturesque setting.
Toki no Kane(時の鐘)
Kawagoe’s iconic “Toki no Kane” bell tower stands out in the heart of the historic district.
This beloved landmark has been a part of the town’s daily life since the early Edo period, when it would ring out to announce the time to the residents of the castle town.
The tower’s origins date back around 400 years, when it was first built by Sakai Tadatsugu, the lord of Kawagoe at that time. Despite being damaged and destroyed by fires over the centuries, the bell tower and its bronze bells have been repeatedly rebuilt, maintaining their presence as a symbol of Kawagoe’s rich history.
Ichiban Machi
Ichibangai Street (Warehouse District) is lined with traditional storehouses built after a major fire in 1893. Following the fire, many fire-resistant, clay-walled buildings were constructed, and this historic scenery remains today.
In this town, you can experience the old Edo-era atmosphere of Japan, and it’s also famous for street food. One memorable snack I tried was a huge sweet potato chip – it was practically the size of my face! It’s definitely something that makes for a fun travel story. For lunch, I also recommend the Ichiban-gai area, which offers easy access to popular spots like the Hikawa Shrine and Toki no Kane (the Bell of Time).
Kawagoe offers a variety of famous foods that showcase its unique local flavors. From sweet potato delicacies, like soft-serve ice cream and chips, to traditional Japanese sweets and savory treats, there’s something for every palate.
- Kawagoe Sushi: For sushi lovers, this local establishment serves fresh, high-quality sushi at reasonable prices. Be sure to try their seasonal specials!
- Unagi (Grilled Eel) Restaurant: Experience the rich flavors of unagi served over rice, a must-try delicacy in this region.
- Kawagoe Soba: Enjoy handmade soba noodles served hot or cold. The traditional soba shops in the area offer a cozy atmosphere that enhances the dining experience.
- Cafés: If you prefer a lighter meal, check out one of the many cafés. Many of them offer sweet treats, coffee, and light bites, perfect for a mid-afternoon break.
Kashiya Yokocho
After lunch, stroll through Candy Alley (Kashiya Yokocho), a lively street famous for Japanese sweets. With shops lining the street, you’ll find plenty of sweets to try, from wagashi (delicate sweets) and senbei (crispy rice crackers) to dango (sweet rice dumplings). A great place to satisfy your sweet tooth and buy some unique souvenirs.
This area is nostalgic and retro and gets busy on weekends. The street dates back to the early Showa period and is full of old confectionery shops, so it feels like old Japan.
Starbucks Kawagoe Kanetsuki Street Store
This Starbucks is designed to blend seamlessly into the streetscape of this city and you can relax and take a rest at Starbucks for walking.
There are some unique beverages that you only can drink in Japan.
