Known as “Little Edo”, Kawagoe (川越) was both a strategic post in the Kanto region and a key trading point for merchants during the Edo period (1603-1868). Today the main attraction is the line of well-preserved warehouses (kurazukuri) which were used by merchants to store their goods and wares. It is thought that at one point Kawagoe was home to over 200 of these structures and, although a fire in 1893 claimed one third of the town, many survive today (some have stood for over 200 years). Check out the Tourist Association’s guide map here (PDF download).

Information
Location
Kawagoe, Saitama
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Key Attractions

Honmaru Goten of Kawagoe Castle

The only surviving structure of Kawagoe Castle, once a key strategic defense points for Edo.
9:00-17:00. Closed on Mondays unless it is a public holiday
Adults ¥100, students ¥50, children can enter for free

Kashiya Yokocho

“Penny Candy Alley” is a street lined with about 20 shops selling traditional Japanese sweets and candy. Kawagoe is known for its sweet potatoes which are cut into sticks, fried, and salted.

Kawagoe Kurazukuri Museum

Housed in one of the warehouses, this small museum displays the tools used by the merchants and provides a glimpse into life in Kawagoe during the Edo period. Limited amount to see inside, but worth stopping in at as you wander down the street.
9:00-17:00
Free

Kitain Temple

Temple rebuilt from the only surviving remains of Edo Castle famous also for its 538 statues of the Rakan, disciples of the Buddha.

Toki no Kane Bell Tower

Toki no Kane Bell Tower is one of the most prominent structures in the warehouse district. It rings four times a day at 6am, noon, 3pm, and 6pm.
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