Kawagoe

Japan

Saturday, September 20, 2025

Sunrise

5:27 AM

Sunset

5:43 PM

About

Kawagoe, also known as "Little Edo," is a charming and historic town located just 30 minutes outside of Tokyo, Japan. With beautifully preserved Edo-period buildings and quaint streets lined with old-fashioned shops and restaurants, Kawagoe is a delightful destination for those seeking a taste of traditional Japan. Surrounded by lush greenery and dotted with fascinating museums and cultural sites, this picturesque town is a true hidden gem that shouldn't be missed.

30 Best Places to Visit

1. Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine

A tranquil shrine dedicated to the deity of love and matchmaking.
2. Kashiya Yokocho

A nostalgic street lined with candy shops and snack vendors offering traditional treats.
3. Kawagoe Bell Tower

A tall, red landmark in the city center that announces the time with its bell.
4. Kitain Temple

A historic temple complex featuring a variety of impressive buildings and gardens.
5. Candy Alley

A charming street filled with old-fashioned candy stores and sweet shops.
6. Kawagoe Castle

A reconstructed castle with a majestic main keep and beautiful surrounding moat.
7. Toki no Kane

A bell tower that has been rung to mark the time since the Edo period.
8. Kawagoe City Museum

A small yet informative museum featuring local history and culture exhibits.
9. Nakamise-dori

A lively shopping street with a wide variety of stores and eateries.
10. Kawagoe City Industrial Arts Center

A facility showcasing traditional crafts and providing hands-on experiences for visitors.
11. Naka-Hikiya Street

A beautiful old street lined with preserved soy sauce warehouses and traditional homes.
12. Kawagoe History Museum

A museum tracing the history of Kawagoe from ancient times to modern day.
13. Kurazukuri Street

A picturesque street with well-preserved traditional Japanese warehouses, shops, and homes.
14. Kawagoe Matsumoto Family Residence

A historic samurai house that offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of a feudal-era family.
15. Kawagoe-kita Flower Park

A park known for its seasonal flowers and landscaped grounds.
16. Kawagoe Festival Museum

A museum that displays the impressive floats and other artifacts from the famous Kawagoe Festival.
17. Yamazaki Art Museum

A museum with a collection of Japanese art, including works by Kawagoe native Yamazaki Taro.
18. Kawagoe Ichibangai Shopping Street

An arcade-style covered shopping street that spans several blocks.
19. Honmaru Goten

A reconstructed palace building from the Kawagoe Castle complex with lavish decorations.
20. Toki no Ki Trail

A walking trail that follows the historic Toki River and offers scenic views.
21. Kawagoe Ichinoya

A restored Edo-era residence that now serves as a museum showcasing traditional Japanese architecture and daily life.
22. Kawagoe Prince Hotel

A modern hotel with comfortable rooms and easy access to popular sights in the area.
23. Warehouse District Walking Tour

A guided tour of the historic warehouse district with knowledgeable guides and interesting facts.
24. Toki no Kane Workshop

A workshop where visitors can try making their own wind bells, which are popular souvenirs of Kawagoe.
25. Kawagoe Accessory Museum

A museum featuring a collection of beautiful accessories and showcasing traditional Japanese craftsmanship.
26. Bell Tower Square

A spacious park that surrounds the bell tower, providing a peaceful respite in the heart of the city.
27. Kita-in Temple Botanical Gardens

A beautiful garden within the Kita-in Temple complex, boasting a variety of flowers and plants.
28. Kawagoe Performing Arts Center

A modern facility that hosts a variety of performances from traditional Japanese dance to modern theater.
29. Kawagoe Jazz Street

An annual music festival where jazz musicians come together to play at many venues throughout the city.
30. Kawagoe-ko Lake

A picturesque lake that offers opportunities for boating and fishing, as well as scenic walking trails.