Kawagoe Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Kawagoe with this comprehensive travel guide. Explore the culturally significant attractions, natural beauty, food, and accommodations of this amazing Japanese city.


Introduction to Kawagoe

Kawagoe, also known as “Little Edo,” is a city located in the Saitama prefecture of Japan. The city is just 30 minutes away from Tokyo and offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese culture and modernity. Famous for its old-fashioned streetscapes and warehouses, Kawagoe offers visitors an interesting glimpse into Japan’s Edo period. The city also boasts a vibrant food scene, impressive museums, and beautiful natural scenery.

List of Places to Visit in Kawagoe

Here’s a list of must-visit places in Kawagoe:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Kawagoe is home to many impressive museums and historical places that are sure to leave visitors in awe. Some of the museums and historical sites worth a visit include:

  • Kitain Temple: This famous temple is home to over 500 Rakan statues.
  • Kawagoe Castle: This ancient castle was built in the 16th century and is a must-visit for history buffs.
  • Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine: This 1500-year-old shrine is considered one of the most important in the country.

Natural Attractions of Kawagoe: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kawagoe is blessed with some incredible natural scenery, ranging from picturesque countryside landscapes to beautiful parks. Some of the natural attractions to explore include:

  • Sayama Hills: Located in the northwest of the city, these hills offer amazing views of the city.
  • Kawagoe Forest and Nature Reserve: This beautiful reserve is home to many hiking and cycling trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kawagoe

Kawagoe offers visitors some incredible hiking and biking routes that can be enjoyed by all skill levels. Some of the top trails worth exploring include:

  • Kawagoe Castle Hiking Trail: This 3.2-kilometer route offers beautiful views of the castle and surrounding city.
  • Kawagoe-Shiroyama Park Biking Trail: This scenic trail is perfect for cycling enthusiasts and offers beautiful views of the city.

Best Things to Do in Kawagoe: Activities and Tours

Kawagoe has something to offer for every type of traveler, whether you’re interested in food, culture, or adventure. Some of the best things to do in Kawagoe include:

  • Take a walking tour of the city’s historic sites and landmarks.
  • Visit a local sake brewery and participate in a tasting tour.
  • Go shopping in the city’s many chic boutiques and department stores.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kawagoe

A week-long itinerary for Kawagoe could look like this:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Kitain Temple and Kawagoe Castle
Day 2 Visit Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine and Kawagoe City
Day 3 Hike Sayama Hills
Day 4 Explore Kawagoe-Shiroyama Park
Day 5 Take a leisurely walk around the city
Day 6 Go shopping and try local food
Day 7 Visit a local brewery and participate in a tasting tour

Food and Drink Scene of Kawagoe

Kawagoe is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide range of culinary offerings that cater to all tastes. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sweet Potatoes: A local delicacy that is boiled and served with honey.
  • Eel: A popular dish made with grilled or fried eel.
  • Kashiya Yokocho: A street lined with traditional candy shops.

Local Beverages

  • Sake: A popular alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice.
  • Mugi Shochu: A Japanese distilled spirit made from barley.

Where to Stay in Kawagoe: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many accommodation options available in Kawagoe, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Some of the best places to stay in Kawagoe include:

  • Kawagoe Tobu Hotel: A luxury hotel located in the heart of the city.
  • Wakatake-no-Yado: A traditional Japanese inn located close to the historic district.
  • Ryokan Matsumuraya: A budget-friendly guesthouse that offers clean and comfortable rooms.

What to Buy in Kawagoe: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kawagoe is famous for its unique souvenirs and local products. Some of the top souvenirs to bring home include:

  • Kawagoe-baumkuchen: A delicious cake made with layers of sponge cake.
  • Baked Sweet Potato Sticks: A popular snack made from local sweet potatoes.
  • Kashiya Yokocho Candy: A range of traditional sweets and candies found on the famous Kashiya Yokocho street.

Local Culture and Customs of Kawagoe

Kawagoe has a rich cultural heritage and is famous for its traditional festivals and customs. Some of the customs and traditions worth experiencing include:

  • Kawagoe Festival: A traditional festival held every October, featuring huge parade floats, music, and dancing.
  • Kimono Wearing: Try a traditional Japanese kimono for a day by renting from one of the many shops in the city.

Best Time to Visit Kawagoe

The best time to visit Kawagoe is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather during these months is mild, and the city is not too crowded.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kawagoe

Here are some things to keep in mind while visiting Kawagoe:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Take off your shoes before entering a traditional Japanese establishment.

Don’t:

  • Take photographs of locals without their permission.
  • Litter or smoke in public places.
  • Cause a disturbance in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kawagoe

Kawagoe is generally a safe city for tourists. Petty crime can occur, but it is uncommon.

Health in Kawagoe

Japan has excellent healthcare facilities, and Kawagoe is no exception. Medical services and facilities are available throughout the city, and the standards are of high quality.

Getting to Kawagoe: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kawagoe is easily accessible from Tokyo and other major Japanese cities. Here are some of the transportation options available:

Airports Near Kawagoe

The nearest airport to Kawagoe is Narita International Airport, which is about 80 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Kawagoe

Kawagoe is well-connected by bus to several major cities in Japan. Buses are an affordable and convenient mode of transport for tourists.

Other Options

Other transportation options include trains, taxis, and rental cars.

How to Get Around in Kawagoe

Kawagoe is a very walkable city, with most major attractions located within walking distance. Visitors can also rent bicycles or take the local bus to get around the city.

Where to Go Next from Kawagoe: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kawagoe is located close to several other popular Japanese cities and destinations. Some of the top destinations to check out include:

  • Tokyo: Known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping, and dining.
  • Nikko: Famous for its stunning natural scenery, hot springs, and World Heritage Sites.
  • Kamakura: A coastal city known for its beaches, shrines, and temples.

Conclusion

Kawagoe is a beautiful city that offers visitors a unique blend of traditional Japanese culture and modernity. The city’s rich heritage, vibrant food scene, and natural beauty make it a perfect destination for anyone looking to explore Japan beyond its major cities. Plan your trip to Kawagoe today and experience all that this amazing city has to offer.

Toki no Kane Toki no Kane Kawagoe Kuratsukuri Museum Kawagoe Kuratsukuri Museum Kitain temple Kitain temple Kashiya Yokocho (Penny Candy Lane) Kashiya Yokocho (Penny Candy Lane) Violet sweet potato and fried mochi Violet sweet potato and fried mochi Candy Candy A float in Kawagoe Festival A float in Kawagoe Festival