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Kawagoe Castle Hommaru Palace: A Glimpse into Feudal Japan

Explore the only remaining structure of Kawagoe Castle, offering a glimpse into Japan's feudal past and the lives of its lords.

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Step back in time at Kawagoe Castle's Hommaru Palace, the only surviving structure of the former castle. Built in 1848, this historical landmark offers a glimpse into the lives of the lords who once resided here, with tatami mat rooms, a beautiful garden, and exhibits showcasing the castle's history.

A brief summary to Kawagoe Castle Hommaru Palace

  • 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 to enhance your understanding of Kawagoe's history and culture.
  • Visit during the spring or autumn to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the palace's garden.
  • Check the opening hours and closed days (Mondays, the 4th Friday of each month, and New Year holidays) before your visit.
  • Consider purchasing a set ticket to save on admission fees for Kawagoe's major historical and cultural attractions.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Kawagoe Station, it's approximately a 25-minute walk to Kawagoe Castle Hommaru Palace. Head west on Route 254, then turn left onto Route 16. Continue straight, following signs for Kawagoe Castle. The palace is adjacent to the Kawagoe City Museum and Art Museum.

  • Public Transport

    From Kawagoe Station or Honkawagoe Station, take the Tobu Bus West and get off at Fuda no Tsuji bus stop, from which it is an 8-minute walk. Alternatively, take the CO-EDO Loop Bus and get off at Honmaru Goten-mae, or the Tobu Koedo Loop Bus and get off at Hakubutsukan-mae. A single bus trip costs around ¥220. A one-day pass for the Tobu Koedo Loop Bus costs ¥400.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Kawagoe Station to Kawagoe Castle Hommaru Palace takes approximately 5-10 minutes and costs around ¥800-¥1200, depending on traffic.

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Discover more about Kawagoe Castle Hommaru Palace

Kawagoe Castle Hommaru Palace, located in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, is a tangible link to Japan's feudal past. Originally built in 1457, the castle served as the residence and administrative center for the Lord of Kawagoe. Kawagoe's strategic importance as a trade city and a key defense point north of Tokyo led Tokugawa Ieyasu to appoint loyal subjects to govern the castle during the Edo period. Throughout this era, 21 different lords resided here. Today, the Hommaru Palace is the only remaining structure of Kawagoe Castle. What stands today was constructed in 1848, shortly before the end of the Edo period. Visitors can explore the spacious tatami mat rooms and admire the adjacent garden, which is particularly beautiful in the spring and autumn. Exhibits within the palace showcase models of the Kawagoe Lord and his staff, providing insight into the daily life and important discussions that took place here. In 1967, the palace was designated as a tangible cultural property of Japan. A visit to the Kawagoe Castle Hommaru Palace offers a unique opportunity to experience traditional Japanese architecture and learn about the region's rich history. The palace is conveniently located near other historical sites, such as the Kawagoe City Museum and Art Museum, allowing visitors to deepen their understanding of Kawagoe's cultural heritage.

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