Kawagoe Old Town
Little Edo Preserved in Time
Kawagoe flourished as a vital supply town for Edo (old Tokyo) during the Tokugawa shogunate period, connected to the capital via the Shingashi River. The city's merchants grew wealthy trading goods, particularly sweet potatoes which became synonymous with Kawagoe. During the Edo period, Kawagoe Castle was home to powerful feudal lords who helped govern the Kanto region, and the town developed a sophisticated urban culture rivaling Edo itself.
The historic kurazukuri (clay-walled warehouse) buildings that line Kawagoe's main street date primarily from the late 19th to early 20th centuries, built after the great fire of 1893. These fireproof structures, with their distinctive black plaster walls and heavy tile roofs, were designed to protect merchants' valuable goods. Around 30 of these warehouses remain today, creating Japan's finest preserved merchant district from this era.
Kawagoe earned the nickname 'Ko-Edo' (Little Edo) for its well-preserved Edo-period atmosphere. In 1999, the district was designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. The iconic Toki no Kane (Time Bell Tower), rebuilt in 1894, has marked the hours for over 400 years and remains a symbol of the city, ringing four times daily at 6:00, 12:00, 15:00, and 18:00.
Key Highlights
- Preserved Edo-period kurazukuri warehouse buildings
- Iconic Toki no Kane (Time Bell Tower) from 1894
- Traditional candy shop street (Kashiya Yokocho)
- Only 30 minutes from central Tokyo
- Kawagoe Castle ruins and museum
- Atmospheric streets perfect for kimono wearing
Access Information
Location
Kurazukuri District, Kawagoe, Saitama 350-0062, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Kawagoe Station (JR Kawagoe Line)
- • Hon-Kawagoe Station (Seibu Shinjuku Line)
- • Kawagoe-shi Station (Tobu Tojo Line)
Opening Hours
District: 24 hours | Shops/museums: typically 10:00-17:00 | Many shops closed Mondays or Wednesdays
Admission Fee
Free to walk around | Individual attractions: ¥200-500 | Kawagoe Pass (5 attractions): ¥500
How to Get There
From Tokyo (Shinjuku)
Seibu Shinjuku Line Express to Hon-Kawagoe Station
45 minutes
From Tokyo (Ikebukuro)
Tobu Tojo Line Express to Kawagoe-shi Station
30 minutes
From Tokyo Station
JR Kawagoe Line to Kawagoe Station
50 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Perfect Half-Day Trip from Tokyo
Kawagoe is ideal for a leisurely half-day or full-day trip from Tokyo (30-50 min). Arrive by late morning, explore until late afternoon. The town has a relaxed pace - allow 3-4 hours minimum. Weekday visits are less crowded than weekends when day-trippers flood the streets.
Key Areas to Explore
Main attractions: Kurazukuri Street (warehouse buildings), Toki no Kane bell tower, Kashiya Yokocho (candy alley with 20+ traditional sweet shops), Kitain Temple (Edo castle rooms), Hikawa Shrine (for ema fish fortunes), and Kawagoe Castle remains. All within walking distance.
Try Kawagoe's Sweet Potato Specialties
Kawagoe is famous for sweet potatoes (satsumaimo). Try sweet potato ice cream, chips, tempura, and desserts throughout the district. Local craft beer and sake are also available. Lunch options include traditional eel restaurants and modern cafes in renovated warehouses.
Kimono Rental Enhances the Experience
Several shops near Hon-Kawagoe Station rent kimono (¥3,000-5,000 for 4-6 hours including accessories and dressing). Wandering Edo-period streets in kimono makes for memorable photos and an immersive cultural experience. Book in advance on busy days.
Best Photo Spots
Toki no Kane bell tower from various angles, the kurazukuri warehouse street (especially near the tourist information center), Kashiya Yokocho's colorful candy shops, and Hikawa Shrine's torii gates. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting and fewer crowds.
Unique Shopping in Historic Buildings
Browse traditional craft shops, sweet potato product stores, sake breweries, and modern boutiques housed in historic warehouses. Many kurazukuri buildings now contain stylish cafes, galleries, and specialty shops blending old architecture with contemporary design.
Stop at Tourist Information Near Station
Excellent English-speaking tourist information centers are located near both Kawagoe Station and Hon-Kawagoe Station. Pick up free English maps and ask about the discount pass for attractions. Coin lockers available at all three train stations for storing luggage.
Kawagoe Matsuri Festival in October
The Kawagoe Festival (third weekend of October) is one of Kanto's greatest festivals, featuring massive decorated floats, traditional music, and dancing. The town becomes extremely crowded but offers a spectacular cultural experience. Book accommodation months in advance if attending.
FAQ
How long should I spend in Kawagoe Old Town?
Most visitors spend 3-5 hours exploring Kawagoe. A half-day trip (4 hours) is ideal for seeing the main kurazukuri street, Toki no Kane bell tower, and Kashiya Yokocho candy alley. If you want to visit Kitain Temple, Hikawa Shrine, and enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant, plan for a full day (6-7 hours).
Is Kawagoe Old Town crowded?
Weekends and holidays can be quite crowded, especially during cherry blossom season and autumn. Weekdays are significantly quieter and more pleasant for photography and exploring. The most crowded area is around Toki no Kane bell tower between 11am-3pm. Early morning (before 10am) and late afternoon offer the best experience with fewer tourists.
Can I visit Kawagoe as a day trip from Tokyo?
Yes, Kawagoe is an excellent day trip from Tokyo. It's only 30-50 minutes by train from central Tokyo stations (Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, or Tokyo Station). You can easily visit in the morning, explore for 4-5 hours, and return to Tokyo by evening. No overnight stay is necessary unless you want to attend evening events.
What makes Kawagoe's 'Little Edo' atmosphere special?
Kawagoe preserves the architectural style and atmosphere of Edo-period Japan better than almost anywhere else near Tokyo. The black-walled kurazukuri warehouses create an authentic historical streetscape that feels like stepping back in time. Unlike reconstructed theme parks, these are genuine buildings where merchants still operate shops, cafes, and galleries, blending authentic heritage with modern commerce.
What is Kashiya Yokocho (Candy Street)?
Kashiya Yokocho is a charming narrow alley lined with over 20 traditional candy shops selling Japanese sweets like dagashi, rice crackers, and handmade confections. Dating from the Meiji era, the street evokes nostalgic Showa-period Japan. It's particularly photogenic with colorful candy displays and traditional shopfronts. Most sweets cost ¥100-300, making it perfect for affordable souvenir shopping.
When does the Toki no Kane bell tower ring?
The bell rings four times daily at 6:00am, 12:00pm, 3:00pm (15:00), and 6:00pm (18:00). The noon and 3pm rings are most popular with visitors. Arrive 5-10 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot for photos. The bell's sound carries throughout the old town and has been a time signal for over 400 years.
Should I rent a kimono in Kawagoe?
Renting a kimono enhances the Kawagoe experience significantly. Walking the Edo-period streets in traditional dress creates wonderful photo opportunities and feels more immersive. Several rental shops near Hon-Kawagoe Station offer packages for ¥3,000-5,000 including dressing service and accessories. Book ahead on weekends. Most rentals are for 4-6 hours, giving plenty of time to explore.
Are there English signs and information in Kawagoe?
English signage is limited on streets, but major attractions have English explanations. Tourist information centers near stations provide excellent English maps and can answer questions. Most shop staff speak minimal English, but are very helpful and patient. Translation apps work well for menu reading and basic communication. Consider downloading an offline map before visiting.
Is Kawagoe Old Town wheelchair accessible?
The main kurazukuri street is relatively flat and wheelchair accessible, though some shops have raised entrances or steps. Toki no Kane bell tower is not wheelchair accessible. Kitain Temple has some stairs but portions are accessible. Sidewalks can be narrow in busy areas. Contact the tourist information center ahead for specific accessibility route recommendations and assistance.
Is Kawagoe Old Town good for children?
Yes, Kawagoe is very family-friendly. Children enjoy Kashiya Yokocho's colorful candy shops, trying sweet potato snacks, and exploring the atmospheric streets. The walking distances are manageable for kids (mostly flat terrain). Strollers can navigate main streets but may struggle in narrow alleys. The nostalgic atmosphere and street food keep children engaged. Allow extra time for candy shopping and breaks.
Where can I store luggage in Kawagoe?
Coin lockers are available at all three main stations: Kawagoe, Hon-Kawagoe, and Kawagoe-shi stations. Sizes range from small (¥300) to large (¥600-800). Lockers at Hon-Kawagoe Station are most convenient for the old town area. Some shops may hold small bags while you browse, but don't rely on this. Tourist information centers cannot store luggage.
Can I visit Kawagoe in the rain?
Yes, Kawagoe remains enjoyable in light rain. Many shops, cafes, and covered arcades provide shelter. The kurazukuri street actually looks atmospheric in rain, with reflections on wet pavement. Bring an umbrella or buy one at any convenience store (¥500-800). Heavy rain may make walking less pleasant and limit photography. Indoor attractions like museums and galleries are good rain alternatives.
Are there public restrooms in Kawagoe Old Town?
Yes, free public restrooms are located near tourist information centers, at temples/shrines (Kitain, Hikawa Shrine), and in some parks. Major museums and attractions have facilities. Department stores near stations also have clean restrooms. Most are Japanese-style and Western-style mix. Convenience stores (Family Mart, Lawson) allow restroom use, especially if you make a small purchase.
What food specialties should I try in Kawagoe?
Sweet potato (satsumaimo) is Kawagoe's signature - try sweet potato ice cream, chips, tempura, and desserts. Unagi (eel) restaurants serve traditional grilled eel dishes. Local craft beer and sake are available at specialty shops. Try traditional Japanese confections at old candy shops. Coedo Brewery's beer is a local favorite. Street food includes dango (rice dumplings) and yakitori (grilled chicken skewers).
Do shops in Kawagoe accept credit cards?
Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted at larger restaurants, museums, and some established shops. However, many small traditional shops, candy stores, and street vendors are cash-only. Bring at least ¥5,000-10,000 cash. ATMs are available at convenience stores (7-Eleven, Family Mart) throughout the area and at train stations. IC cards like Suica work at some establishments.
What's the best season to visit Kawagoe?
Spring (March-April) for cherry blossoms and comfortable weather is ideal. Autumn (October-November) offers beautiful fall colors and the famous Kawagoe Festival (third weekend in October). Summer can be hot and humid but less crowded. Winter is quiet with crisp air perfect for photographs. Each season offers different charm - the town is beautiful year-round.
What shouldn't I miss in Kawagoe?
Don't miss: walking the main kurazukuri warehouse street for photos, visiting at noon or 3pm to hear Toki no Kane bell ring, exploring Kashiya Yokocho for traditional candy and nostalgic atmosphere, trying sweet potato treats, and visiting Kitain Temple's Edo castle rooms. If time allows, Hikawa Shrine's ema fish fortunes are unique. Many visitors regret not renting a kimono.
Can I take photos in Kawagoe Old Town?
Yes, street photography is freely allowed and encouraged. The kurazukuri buildings, Toki no Kane tower, and Kashiya Yokocho are popular photo spots. Inside shops and museums, ask permission first - some prohibit photography. Avoid photographing people's faces without permission, especially those in kimono. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best natural lighting for architectural photography.
When is the Kawagoe Festival and should I attend?
The Kawagoe Festival occurs annually on the third weekend of October (Saturday-Sunday). It's one of Kanto's greatest festivals featuring massive ornate floats, traditional music, dancing, and nighttime illuminations. The town becomes extremely crowded with over 800,000 visitors. If attending, arrive early morning, expect crowds, and book accommodation months in advance. The spectacle is worth the crowds for festival enthusiasts.
What other attractions are near Kawagoe?
Hikawa Shrine (15-minute walk from old town) is famous for romantic ema fortunes and beautiful grounds. Kitain Temple (10 minutes away) houses rooms relocated from Edo Castle. Kawagoe Castle's Honmaru Goten (main keep) museum displays samurai history. The modern shopping street near stations offers contrast to old town. Consider combining Kawagoe with Omiya Bonsai Village (30 minutes by train) for a full day.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Hitsujiyama Park (Shibazakura)
A hillside park famous for spectacular spring displays of 400,000 shibazakura (moss phlox) creating pink, white, and purple flower carpets with mountain views as backdrop.
Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine
A romantic 1,500-year-old shrine famous for matchmaking blessings, the summer Wind Chime Festival with thousands of glass chimes, and photogenic red torii gates.
Nagatoro River & Iwadatami
A scenic river gorge featuring unique layered rock formations called 'Iwadatami' resembling tatami mats, best explored by traditional boat rides and riverside walks through crystalline schist cliffs.