Kawagoe

Tuesday, November 25, 2025 Updated

Time Travel to Edo Era

Saitama · Japan

Historic “Little Edo” Townscape

Kawagoe is one of the most charming day-trip destinations from Tokyo, known for its beautifully preserved Edo-period streets, traditional warehouse buildings, and cultural landmarks. Nicknamed “Little Edo”, the town offers a nostalgic atmosphere where visitors can experience old-Tokyo charm, local sweets, and iconic architecture.

Why Kawagoe Is Worth Visiting

Kawagoe blends history, culture, and street-food exploration in a walkable townscape. Its famous Kurazukuri district is lined with clay-walled merchant houses that transport visitors back to Japan’s Edo era.

Kurazukuri Street: Edo-style warehouse buildings unique to Kawagoe.
Toki no Kane: the iconic wooden time bell tower, symbol of the city.
Kashiya Yokocho: a retro candy alley filled with local sweets.
Historic ambiance: perfect for photos, strolls, and cultural immersion.

With its convenient access from central Tokyo, Kawagoe is ideal for travelers seeking traditional scenery, local flavors, and a relaxing escape from the big city.

Who Should Visit Kawagoe

Kawagoe is perfect for travelers looking to explore historic towns, enjoy cultural walks, and discover Edo-period charm without traveling far from Tokyo.

Visitors interested in traditional Japanese streetscapes.
Food lovers seeking street snacks & local sweets.
Families and photographers who enjoy scenic cultural towns.
Travelers seeking an easy Tokyo day-trip.

Little Edo

Kurazukuri

Day Trip from Tokyo

Traditional Townscape

Practical Information

Location: Kawagoe, Saitama (30–40 min from central Tokyo)
Main Areas: Kurazukuri Street, Toki no Kane, Kashiya Yokocho
Best for: Cultural walks, food exploration, historic scenery
Tip: Weekdays are less crowded; great for relaxed strolling

Old Townscape | Edo – Meiji – Taisho

Kawagoe is located northwest of Tokyo, and this quaint Edo-period castle town retains the authentic atmosphere of old Japan. Although Kawagoe Castle itself now lies in ruins, the historic Honmaru Goten still stands and is open to visitors.
Kawagoe is renowned for its preserved merchant district, featuring Kurazukuri clay-walled warehouses and the nostalgic Kashiya Yokocho (Candy Alley). Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine is also famous as a matchmaking spot.
Of the 200+ historic warehouses once built here, about 30 beautifully preserved structures remain, earning the town its nickname “Little Edo”. Kawagoe also features elegant early 20th-century brick, cement, and stone architecture inspired by Taisho Romanticism.

Landmark | Toki no Kane (Bell Tower)

One of Kawagoe’s most iconic landmarks is the Toki no Kane, a wooden bell tower first built about 400 years ago. Although destroyed by multiple fires, it has always been faithfully rebuilt.

The current tower dates back to 1893 and remains the symbol of Kawagoe. Its bell rings four times daily and was selected as one of Japan’s “100 Soundscapes”.

Kawagoe Snack & Local Sweets

Kawagoe is a paradise for sweet lovers—famous for sweet potatoes (Yaki Imo), unagi (eel), and traditional Japanese sweets. You’ll find sweet potato chips, ice cream, coffee, and even sweet potato beer.

A freshly baked sweet potato has a velvety, creamy flavor beloved for generations.

Recommended Stores

Kawagoe offers a warm, nostalgic glimpse into Japan’s Edo heritage. Add this charming town to your Tokyo itinerary for a cultural experience filled with history, food, and beautiful traditional streets.

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