Welcome to Kawagoe, a charming city rich in Edo-period history and a wonderful day trip destination just north of Tokyo. Known as “Little Edo,” Kawagoe retains the architecture, ambiance, and traditional culture of Japan's Edo period. This tour will guide you through the town's historical and cultural highlights.
Begin your day at Hachimangu Shrine, a tranquil Shinto shrine in Kawagoe. This hidden gem is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful garden setting. The shrine, dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war and protection, offers a chance to pray for good fortune and health. The vermilion torii gates create a lovely entrance, making it an ideal starting point to set your intentions for the day.
From Hachimangu Shrine, stroll over to the iconic Kita-in Temple. This revered Buddhist temple, dating back over 1,200 years, is a vital piece of Kawagoe's heritage. As you explore, discover the impressive Gohyaku Rakan statues—540 unique statues that represent the disciples of Buddha. Don’t miss the temple’s historic building interiors, where parts of Edo Castle were relocated, offering a glimpse into Japan's feudal past.
Next, immerse yourself in Edo-period charm at the Coedo Historical District. Here, you’ll find the famous kurazukuri (traditional clay-walled warehouses) lining the streets. These striking buildings were once storehouses and shops, their fire-resistant design helping protect against blazes. Today, they house artisan shops, cafes, and museums where you can browse handcrafted souvenirs, try local sweets, and enjoy the bustling atmosphere of Kawagoe.
While wandering the Coedo District, you’ll come across Toki no Kane, the iconic bell tower and symbol of Kawagoe. This historic wooden structure has sounded the time for over 350 years, with its bell tolling four times a day. A photo here is a must to capture the essence of “Little Edo,” as the tower rises above the surrounding kura-style buildings, connecting the city to its Edo-period roots.
A short walk from the bell tower is Kashiya Yokocho Street, or Sweets Alley. This narrow lane is filled with traditional sweets shops that sell everything from hand-pulled sweets to rice crackers and sweet potato treats—a local speciality. Strolling here is a nostalgic experience, and sampling the unique flavours is a delightful way to fuel up for the rest of your tour.
Kawagoe offers workshops that allow you to create your own piece of Japanese craftsmanship to take home.
Glass Blowing:
Learn the ancient art of glass blowing as you shape your own glassware with the help of a skilled instructor. The experience is mesmerising and allows you to create a personal keepsake.
Chopstick Making:
Alternatively, you can choose a chopstick-making workshop, where you’ll craft a unique pair of wooden chopsticks, carving and polishing them to perfection.
Please note that you can choose only one of these craft activities to allow enough time to savour the experience.
