Kawagoe Castle Honmaru Goten: A Glimpse into Edo-Era Japan
Step back in time at Kawagoe Castle's Honmaru Goten, a surviving Edo-era palace offering a glimpse into Japan's feudal past in the heart of "Little Edo."
Kawagoe Castle's Honmaru Goten (main palace), dating back to 1848, is a rare surviving example of Edo-period castle architecture. Once a residence for the lord of Kawagoe, it offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of feudal lords and their retainers. Explore traditional tatami rooms, admire the intricate details, and wander through the serene Japanese garden.
A brief summary to Kawagoe Castle
- Kuruwamachi, 2 Chome−１３−番地, Kawagoe, 2 Chome Kuruwamachi, Saitama, 350-0053, JP
- Visit website
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Combine your visit with a trip to the Kawagoe City Museum and Art Museum, located nearby, for a deeper understanding of the area's history and culture.
- Allow at least one to two hours to fully explore the Honmaru Goten and its surroundings.
- Pick up pamphlets in multiple languages, including English, to enhance your understanding of the site.
Getting There
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Walking
From Kawagoe Station (Tobu Tojo Line or JR Kawagoe Line) or Hon-Kawagoe Station (Seibu Shinjuku Line), the Honmaru Goten is approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Head north, following signs for the Kawagoe City Museum. The Honmaru Goten is located adjacent to the museum. No costs are associated with this option.
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Public Transport
From Kawagoe Station (West Exit), take the Koedo Loop Bus (C01 route) and get off at the Hakubutsukan/Bijutsukan-mae (Museum and Art Museum Front) bus stop. The Honmaru Goten is directly in front of the bus stop. The fare is ¥220 per ride, or ¥600 for a 1-day pass.
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Public Transport
From Kawagoe Station (East Exit), take the Tobu Koedo Sightseeing Loop Bus from platform 3 (T1) and get off at the Hakubutsukan-mae (Museum Front) bus stop. The Honmaru Goten is located right in front of the Kawagoe City Museum and Art Museum, making it a very convenient drop-off point. The fare from Kawagoe Station to Hakubutsukan-mae is 210 yen. A 1-Day Pass costs 400 yen.
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