whatdo

Things To Do
in Kawagoe

Day Trips

Tours

Attractions

Prices

Kawagoe is a charming and historic city located in Saitama Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its well-preserved Edo-period architecture, including traditional warehouses and merchant houses. Visitors can stroll through the quaint streets of Kawagoe's old town, filled with shops selling local crafts and delicacies.

The city's iconic landmark is the Kurazukuri Street, lined with unique clay-walled warehouses that give a glimpse into Japan's past.

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4.9(180)

Mt. Fuji & Lake Kawaguchiko Private 1 Day Tour With Pick & Drop

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Kawagoe 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide (Kawagoe Dep)

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Half-day Kawagoe Walking Tour

  • "Arigatou" - Thank you
  • "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
  • "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
  • "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Oishii" - Delicious

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
  • ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Kawagoe's Historic District
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the iconic Kurazukuri Street, known for its traditional warehouse buildings. Enjoy a leisurely stroll while soaking in the atmosphere of old Japan.

afternoon
:

Head to the Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, famous for its beautiful architecture and the unique 'ema' wishing plaques. Take some time to relax in the shrine's peaceful gardens.

evening
:

Visit the Toki no Kane (Belfry) and watch the sunset cast a warm glow on the historical buildings. Grab dinner at a local izakaya to savor some authentic Japanese cuisine.

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Kawagoe Private Tour~Timeslip into photogenic retro-looking town

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Private Tour to Kawagoe with Photographer and Spanish-Speaking Guide

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5.0(11)

Kawagoe: Kimono Rental Traditional Experience at WARGO

day 2
Savoring Kawagoe's Local Delicacies
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at a local ryokan or restaurant. Afterward, explore the morning markets for fresh produce and local snacks.

afternoon
:

Take a food tour highlighting Kawagoe's famous sweet potato treats, from chips to cakes. Stop by the Kawagoe Sweets Prince for a sweet souvenir.

evening
:

Enjoy a dinner featuring traditional Kawagoe curry at a nearby restaurant. Don't forget to try the sweet potato ice cream for dessert!

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Kawagoe Private Custom Tour with Local Guide

Kawagoe Day Trips

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage, known for its well-preserved Edo-period buildings.
  • Famous for sweet potatoes and traditional sweets, offering unique local culinary experiences.
  • Convenient access to Tokyo, making it a popular destination for day-trippers.
  • Charming canals and traditional streets, ideal for leisurely strolls and photography.
  • Host to various festivals and events throughout the year, enhancing the cultural experience.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons, potentially detracting from the experience.
  • Limited English signage and information, which may pose challenges for non-Japanese speakers.
  • Smaller city with fewer modern amenities and large shopping centers compared to major cities.
  • Weather can be hot and humid in summer, and cold in winter, which may affect travel plans.
  • May feel more like a tourist trap in certain areas, with some businesses catering primarily to tourists.

Best Activities in Kawagoe

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Kawagoe Hikawa Park

Enjoy a leisurely stroll amongst the greenery, serene ponds, and beautiful cherry blossoms at Kawagoe Hikawa Park.

Kita-in Temple

Explore the historic Kita-in Temple and its surrounding gardens, featuring ancient buildings and tranquil surroundings.

Kawagoe Castle

Discover the remains of Kawagoe Castle and its adjoining garden, offering a peaceful setting for a relaxed outdoor visit.

Tours

Uncover the best of Kawagoe with these unforgettable tours.

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Kawagoe Private Custom Tour with Local Guide

Kawagoe Tours

Places to Visit in Kawagoe

Visit one of these nice places.

Kawagoe Castle

The castle offers a stunning view of the city and is a great spot for photos.

Kashiya Yokocho (Candy Alley)

This historical street with its traditional architectures provides picturesque views and photo opportunities.

Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine

The shrine's serene surroundings and beautiful architecture make it a great location for capturing memorable moments.

Food in Kawagoe

Kawagoe, a city in Japan known for its Edo-period architecture, offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Japanese and local specialties. Visitors can relish a variety of local dishes, explore bustling food markets and savor street food, and dine in charming restaurants and cafes. For those with dietary restrictions, Kawagoe also provides options catering to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets.

Kawagoe Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kawagoe-style Unagi

Grilled eel seasoned with a sweet soy-based sauce, served over rice. A must-try at Kawagoe's specialty restaurants like Kawagoe Hamo and Yamatoya.

Must-Try!

Kashiya Yokocho Snacks

Indulge in traditional Japanese snacks like sweet potato chips, melon bread, and sweet rice crackers at the quaint confectionery shops in Kashiya Yokocho.

Kawagoe Ichinoya

A sweet delicacy featuring glutinous rice cakes filled with red bean paste, distinctive to Kawagoe and available at local confectionery shops.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Takasago Sake Brewery

Explore the historical sake brewery for a tasting tour, and sample an array of sake varieties paired with local snacks.

Kawagoe Matsuri Street Food Stalls

During the Kawagoe Matsuri festival, vibrant stalls offer an assortment of street food like yakisoba (stir-fried noodles), takoyaki (octopus balls), and grilled meats.

Weather

The climate in this region is characterized as humid subtropical, featuring four distinct seasons. Summers are typically hot and humid, with temperatures often rising above 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) in July and August. The humidity can make the heat feel more intense. Winters, on the other hand, are relatively mild and cool, with average temperatures in January hovering around 0 to 5 degrees Celsius (32 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit). Snowfall is infrequent but can occur, primarily in the colder months. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons, marked by comfortable temperatures and relatively low humidity. Cherry blossoms are a highlight of the spring season, attracting many visitors. Rainfall is abundant throughout the year, with June typically being the wettest month due to the East Asian rainy season known as "tsuyu." Overall, the climate is conducive to a variety of seasonal activities and local festivals, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the area.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Remove shoes before entering a home or certain buildings

In Kawagoe, it is common courtesy to take off your shoes before entering someone's home, traditional ryokan, and some restaurants.

Refrain from loud or boisterous behavior in public

Japanese culture values harmony and quietness in public spaces, so it's important to maintain a calm and respectful demeanor while out and about in Kawagoe.

Use polite language and bow when greeting or thanking someone

Showing respect through polite language (keigo) and bowing is an important aspect of Japanese etiquette, including in Kawagoe.

Safety

This picturesque city, known for its well-preserved Edo-era buildings and rich cultural heritage, is considered to be a very safe place for residents and visitors alike. Japan, in general, is renowned for its low crime rates, and Kawagoe reflects this reputation. Violent crime is quite rare, and petty crimes such as pickpocketing are not common, making it a secure environment for tourists exploring its historic streets. The local authorities are diligent in maintaining public safety, and neighborhoods are typically well-lit with a visible police presence. Additionally, community safety programs often involve local residents, fostering a sense of camaraderie and vigilance. Emergency services are efficient, and the city is equipped with clear signage to assist both locals and tourists. Natural disaster preparedness, especially for earthquakes, is also a significant aspect of safety in this region, with regular drills and public awareness campaigns to ensure that residents know how to respond in case of emergencies. Overall, visitors to this charming destination can enjoy exploring its attractions such as the historic Kurazukuri Street and the famous Kawagoe Castle with peace of mind, knowing they are in a safe environment.

Tipping in Kawagoe

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not a common practice in Kawagoe, Japan. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.

Payment

Cash is the predominant form of payment in Kawagoe, Japan. Credit and debit cards are becoming more widely accepted, especially in larger establishments, but it's still advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and businesses.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Best time to view cherry blossoms in full bloom, pleasant weather, and various festivals such as the Kawagoe Spring Festival

Summer

Warm weather, ideal for exploring the historic streets and enjoying outdoor events like the Kawagoe Matsuri (Festival)

Autumn

Gorgeous fall foliage, comfortable temperatures, and the opportunity to savor local specialties during the Kawagoe Festival

Winter

Colder weather, charming illumination displays, and the chance to experience traditional Japanese New Year's celebrations

Kawagoe at Night

As dusk settles, the picturesque streets lined with traditional kura-style warehouses in Kurazukuri Street begin to transform under the soft glow of lanterns, revealing an enchanting side of Kawagoe's nightlife. This historic city, often referred to as "Little Edo," invites both locals and visitors to explore its unique blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. The heart of the evening activity centers around Koedo Yokocho, a lively area brimming with izakayas, sake bars, and cozy eateries. Here, you can savor a variety of local delicacies such as unagi (freshwater eel) and sweet potato dishes, which Kawagoe is famous for. The friendly proprietors often share stories of the town’s rich history, making your dining experience not just a treat for the palate, but also a cultural immersion. As you wander through the narrow alleys, the sound of laughter and clinking glasses fills the air. Many establishments offer outdoor seating, providing a perfect spot to enjoy the mild night air while sipping on local brews or expertly crafted sake. Street performances, featuring traditional music and dance, occasionally animate the night, adding to the town's festive atmosphere. For a quieter evening, a stroll along the serene Shingashi River, illuminated by the reflections of the night lights, offers a peaceful escape. Some venues even host evening riverboat rides, where you can view the beautifully lit skyline of Kawagoe from the water. Special night events, such as seasonal festivals and temple illuminations, further enhance the Kawagoe nightlife experience. During these times, the entire town glows with decorative lights, and the streets come alive with food stalls, games, and entertainment, reflecting a beautiful blend of tradition and celebration. Whether you are seeking the buzz of a lively night out or the calm of a historic town bathed in evening tranquility, Kawagoe offers a captivating nightlife that promises to leave a lasting impression.

Hiking in Kawagoe

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Gongen

A moderate hiking trail offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a lush forest environment.

Yosuke Park

A scenic park with walking paths and small hiking trails, ideal for a leisurely hike and a picnic.

Higashimatsuyama Nature Park

Features various hiking trails through beautiful natural scenery, suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.

Kawagoe Castle Park

A historical park with easy hiking paths, perfect for exploring the area’s history while enjoying nature.

Saitama Prefectural Museum of History and Folklore Trail

A unique trail that combines cultural education with hiking, set in a historical area with beautiful views.

Aiports

How to reach Kawagoe by plane.

Narita International Airport (NRT)

Located approximately 60 miles east of Kawagoe, Narita International Airport is one of Japan's primary international airports, serving numerous international flights and connecting travelers from around the globe.

Haneda Airport (HND)

Located about 30 miles southeast of Kawagoe, Haneda Airport is closer to downtown Tokyo and provides a significant number of international and domestic flights, making it one of the busiest airports in Asia.

Kansai International Airport (KIX)

Though further away at approximately 300 miles from Kawagoe, Kansai International Airport serves as a major international gateway to the Kansai region of Japan, including Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe.

Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO)

Approximately 200 miles from Kawagoe, Chubu Centrair International Airport serves the central region of Japan and is an international gateway focused on connecting to major cities both in Japan and worldwide.

Walkability

This charming city, known for its well-preserved Edo-period streets and traditional wooden buildings, offers a delightful experience for pedestrians. The layout encourages walking, with many attractions located within a compact area. Sidewalks are typically wide and well-maintained, making it easy to stroll through bustling shopping districts. The famous Kurazukuri district, with its historic warehouses and shops, is particularly pedestrian-friendly. Visitors can enjoy browsing local crafts, snacks, and sweets as they meander through the streets. In addition to the historical sites, such as temples and shrines, there are parks and riverfront areas that provide pleasant spots for relaxation and leisure walks. The city's commitment to preserving its heritage and enhancing walkability is evident in the absence of heavy traffic in many areas, allowing for a peaceful pedestrian experience. Overall, the blend of cultural richness, accessibility, and a welcoming atmosphere contributes to a highly walkable environment, making it an enjoyable destination for both locals and tourists.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Japanese

The predominant ethnic group in Kawagoe, comprising the vast majority of the population.

Foreign Residents

Includes various nationalities, such as Chinese, Korean, Brazilian, and others, who live and work in Kawagoe.

Elderly Population

An increasing demographic within Kawagoe, reflecting Japan's aging society.

Youth Population

Comprises high school and university students, contributing to the local culture and economy.

Children

Includes school-aged children who are part of local families and communities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is highly popular in Kawagoe, with many local teams and youth leagues. The sport enjoys a significant following in Japan.

Soccer

Soccer has a strong presence in Kawagoe, with various clubs and community programs for different age groups.

Basketball

Basketball is played widely in schools and local clubs, with competitions and community events held regularly.

Rugby

Rugby is growing in popularity, with local teams participating in regional leagues and events.

Martial Arts

Various martial arts, including judo and karate, are practiced in Kawagoe, with clubs and training centers available.

Traffic

Nestled in Saitama Prefecture, this city is known for its well-preserved Edo-period structures and rich cultural heritage. Traffic here can be influenced by a mixture of local commuters, tourists visiting historic sites, and families enjoying leisure activities. The main roads are typically busy, especially on weekends when visitors flock to the famous Kawagoe Festival and attractions like the Bell Tower and warehouse district. Public transport, including buses and trains, provides access to nearby areas, with the Kawagoe Station serving as a central hub. Bicycles are a popular mode of transport, and the city is generally pedestrian-friendly, which encourages walking in the historical districts. Street vendors and small shops often draw crowds, leading to increased foot traffic in certain areas. Overall, while traffic can be congested during peak times, the layout accommodates both locals and tourists, making it a vibrant place to navigate.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kawagoe.

Hotels Apartments

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan

Several restaurants and cafes in Kawagoe, such as Mameya and Wahei, offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes including tempura, tofu-based meals, and vegetable sushi.

Gluten-Free

Visitors with a gluten-free diet can enjoy treats like rice-based snacks, mochi, and gluten-free cakes available at confectionery shops and cafes like Matatabi Cafe.

Healthcare

In this city, healthcare services are well-developed and accessible to residents. The healthcare system includes a mix of public and private hospitals, clinics, and specialty medical facilities that offer a wide range of services. The Japanese healthcare system is primarily funded through a universal health insurance scheme, ensuring that most citizens have access to medical care. Residents typically enroll in one of the two main types of health insurance: Employee Health Insurance or National Health Insurance, which covers various medical expenses. Doctors and hospitals operate under regulations that maintain a high standard of care, with many medical professionals receiving excellent training. Major hospitals in the area provide emergency services, surgical care, and specialized treatments in fields such as cardiology, orthopedics, and pediatrics. In addition to hospitals, numerous clinics and practitioners offer outpatient care, preventive health services, and traditional medicine options, including acupuncture and herbal treatments. Public health initiatives are also a priority, with programs promoting wellness, vaccination, and regular health screenings. Overall, the healthcare system in this area combines modern medical practices with a commitment to community health, ensuring that residents receive quality care throughout their lives.

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