Kawagoe: Little Edo

Step back in time in Kawagoe, Saitama – explore Edo-era streets, historic temples, and traditional crafts in this charming 'Little Edo'.

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Kawagoe

Kawagoe, nicknamed "Little Edo," is a charming city in Saitama Prefecture, known for its well-preserved Edo-era (1603-1867) streets and traditional architecture. A popular day trip from Tokyo, it offers a glimpse into Japan's past with its kurazukuri warehouses, historic temples, and nostalgic atmosphere.

A brief summary to Kawagoe

Kawagoe, Saitama, JP

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the historic streets and attractions.
Try the local sweet potato-based snacks and sweets, a Kawagoe specialty.
Visit Kitain Temple to see the 538 stone statues of Buddha, each with a unique expression.
Check the local event calendar for festivals and special events that may be taking place during your visit.
Consider renting a kimono for a stroll through the town to enhance your experience of the traditional atmosphere.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Omiya Station (Saitama), take the JR Kawagoe Line directly to Kawagoe Station. The journey takes approximately 23 minutes and costs ¥320-¥450. From Kawagoe Station, the main sights are accessible by foot or via the Tobu Koedo Loop Bus. A one-day pass for the loop bus costs ¥400. Alternatively, the Co-Edo Loop Bus offers single trips for ¥220 or a day pass for ¥600 (¥400 on the 8th, 18th, and 28th of each month).
Walking

From Hon-Kawagoe Station (Seibu Shinjuku Line), the Warehouse District is a 10-15 minute walk. From there, Kitain Temple and Kawagoe Castle's Honmaru Goten are about a 10-minute walk from each other. Walking allows you to explore the charming streets and discover hidden gems along the way.
Taxi

Taxis are available from both Kawagoe Station and Hon-Kawagoe Station. A short taxi ride from either station to the Warehouse District or Kitain Temple will cost approximately ¥750 - ¥950. This is a convenient option for those with mobility issues or who prefer a quicker journey.
Driving

If driving, search for parking lots around Kawagoe Station or in the city center. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around ¥200 per hour, with maximum daily rates ranging from ¥700 to ¥1400. Be aware that parking can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays.

Discover more about Kawagoe

Kawagoe, often called "Little Edo" (Koedo), is a captivating city in Saitama Prefecture that transports visitors back to the Edo period. During the Edo period, Kawagoe prospered as a commercial center supplying goods to Edo (present-day Tokyo), earning its nickname. The city's well-preserved streets, lined with traditional kurazukuri (warehouse-style) buildings, create a unique historical atmosphere. Kurazukuri Street is the heart of Kawagoe, showcasing the distinctive clay-walled warehouse architecture that dates back to the Meiji period (1868-1912). These fire-resistant structures were built after a devastating fire in 1893 and now house shops, restaurants, and museums. The iconic Toki no Kane (Bell of Time), a wooden bell tower that has marked time for centuries, stands as a symbol of the city. Kawagoe is also home to numerous temples and shrines, including Kitain Temple, a significant Tendai Buddhist temple with a history spanning over 1,200 years. Kitain features buildings relocated from Edo Castle, including the room where the third Tokugawa Shogun, Iemitsu, was born. Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, known for its 1,500-year history and its enmusubi furin (match-making wind chimes) in the summer, is another notable religious site. Beyond its historical landmarks, Kawagoe offers a delightful culinary experience. Candy Alley (Kashiya Yokocho) is a nostalgic street filled with shops selling traditional Japanese sweets and snacks. Sweet potatoes are a local specialty, with numerous shops offering various sweet potato-based treats. Taisho-Roman Street evokes the atmosphere of the Taisho era (1912-1926) with its Western-style buildings and retro ambiance. Kawagoe's blend of history, culture, and cuisine makes it a worthwhile destination for those seeking to explore Japan's rich heritage.