During the Edo period (1603-1868), Kawagoe prospered as a commercial hub supplying Edo (modern-day Tokyo). Its signature kura-zukuri (倉造り) clay-walled warehouses and merchant houses still line the streets, preserving the charm of that era.
Key landmarks include:
Toki no Kane (時の鐘) – the famous wooden bell tower that still chimes four times a day.
Kashiya Yokocho (菓子屋横丁) – “Candy Alley,” filled with traditional Japanese sweets.
Kurazukuri Street (蔵造りの町並み) – the heart of the old town, where Edo-style warehouses now house cafés, galleries, and local shops.
Because the town retains its historical streetscape and slower rhythm, a day in Kawagoe feels like stepping back in time.
Stroll Kurazukuri Street: Admire the dark wooden warehouses and browse through shops selling handmade crafts and snacks.
Visit Toki no Kane: The bell tower is Kawagoe’s symbol and a perfect photo spot.
Candy Alley: Sample traditional Japanese confections and nostalgic street snacks.
Kita-in Temple (北院): A historically significant temple that contains remains of Edo Castle buildings.
Ride the Kawagoe Loop Bus: A convenient way to reach multiple attractions if you want to rest your feet.
Taishō-roman Street: Another photogenic street blending Taishō-era architecture with modern shops and cafés.
From Ekoda Station
Take the Seibu Ikebukuro Line from Ekoda to Ikebukuro Station (about 7 minutes).
From Ikebukuro, transfer to the Tobu Tojo Line bound for Kawagoe Station (about 30–40 minutes by express).
From Kawagoe Station, you can walk 15–20 minutes to the old quarter or take a short local bus ride to the Kurazukuri area.
Total travel time: roughly 50–60 minutes.
Option 1: Take the Seibu Ikebukuro Line to Tokorozawa, then transfer to the Seibu Shinjuku Line toward Hon-Kawagoe Station (about 55–60 minutes total).
Option 2: Take the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line from Nerima to Wakōshi Station, then the Tobu Tojo Line to Kawagoe Station (around 50–55 minutes).
Nearest stop to the old quarter: Hon-Kawagoe Station, which is just a 10-minute walk to Kurazukuri Street.
Morning: Depart early from Tokyo. Arrive mid-morning and walk along Kurazukuri Street, visit Toki no Kane, and enjoy the scenery.
Lunch: Try local specialties such as sweet potato dishes (Kawagoe is famous for them).
Afternoon: Visit Kita-in Temple, explore Candy Alley, or relax in a retro café.
Evening: Take a stroll down Taishō-roman Street before heading back to Tokyo.
Weekdays are quieter than weekends.
Most shops close around 5–6 PM, so plan to arrive before noon.
Bring cash—many small vendors don’t take cards.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
If you use an IC card (Suica or PASMO), it will work across all trains and transfers.
Kimono rental shops are available if you want to experience traditional attire—book ahead on weekends.
