Have you ever been to Koedo, Kawagoe?
Kawagoe is located on Saitama, where is my hometown. And my high school is also located near the area. So I used to visit Kawagoe on holiday and after school.
Recently, I like to take a walk near my area. (It takes like around 30 minutes – 2 hours from my town.) Last time was Kashima Jingu Shrine, Ibaragi prefecture. And this time is Kawagoe!
If you read my article, you’ll add short trip itinerary around Tokyo area.
Anyway, let’s get start it!!!
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Contents
1. Koedo Kawagoe: The โLittle Edoโ of Saitama
Kawagoe, often called โKoedoโ (Little Edo), is a historic city in Saitama Prefecture that feels like stepping into a time machine. The nickname comes from its well-preserved streets and buildings that resemble those from the Edo period (1603โ1868), a time when samurai, merchants, and artisans flourished under Tokugawa rule.
So why did Kawagoe become known as โLittle Edoโ? During the Edo era, Kawagoe served as a strategic castle town supporting the shogunate. It had strong political and economic ties to Edo (modern-day Tokyo), particularly through the Kawagoe Kaidลโan important highway connecting the two cities. Thanks to this route, Kawagoe played a vital role in the trade and cultural exchange between Edo and the surrounding regions.
Even after the Meiji Restoration, Kawagoe managed to preserve much of its traditional architecture, unlike Tokyo which modernized rapidly. Today, visitors can still walk along Kurazukuri streetsโlined with sturdy clay-walled merchant buildings designed to resist fireโgetting a taste of life in old Japan.
What makes Kawagoe so appealing is that it’s not just a historical siteโitโs a living town. Locals still work and run businesses in these traditional buildings. Cafรฉs, craft shops, and sweet stores blend the old with the new, making it perfect for travelers looking to experience Japanese history without leaving the comforts of the modern day.
Whether you’re a history lover, a culture seeker, or simply someone looking for an aesthetic day trip, Koedo Kawagoe is a must-visit. It’s a rare place where history feels aliveโand itโs just a short train ride from central Tokyo.
2. Kurazukuri Street: Strolling Through the Past (and Snacking Along the Way!)
One of the highlights of our Kawagoe trip was exploring the Kurazukuri (่ต้ ใ) streetโan area lined with traditional merchant warehouses that now house trendy cafรฉs, souvenir shops, and sweet stalls. The buildings have thick, black clay walls and tiled roofs, designed to withstand fire. Walking here truly felt like stepping back in time.
But the best part? The food!
Kurazukuri Street is a dream for anyone who loves snacking while sightseeing. The area is known for its local specialty: sweet potatoes. Youโll see them everywhereโin croquettes, chips, cakes, and even ice cream.
We tried the sweet potato soft serve (ในใคใผใใใใใฝใใใฏใชใผใ ) and it was amazing! Creamy, slightly earthy, and not overly sweetโit was the perfect treat on a sunny day. There are also shops selling sweet potato yokan, purple potato dorayaki, and even sweet potato coffee if youโre feeling adventurous.
Aside from the food, the street itself is super photogenic. The old kura (storehouses) create a nostalgic atmosphere, and shop signs are often written in old-style fonts. Youโll see locals in yukata during summer, and even rickshaws offering guided rides.
If youโre visiting Kawagoe for the first time, Kurazukuri Street is a must. Itโs where history, culture, and food come together beautifully. Just donโt come on a full stomachโyouโll want to save room for all the street snacks!
3. Toki no Kane: The Heartbeat of Kawagoe
Standing tall above the rooftops of Kawagoeโs historic district is the Toki no Kane (ๆใฎ้)โthe Time Bell Tower. Itโs one of the cityโs most iconic symbols, and for good reason. Originally built in the early 1600s, this wooden tower has been marking time for the people of Kawagoe for over 400 years.
The current structure was rebuilt in 1894 after a fire, but it retains its traditional design and charm. The bell still chimes four times a dayโat 6 AM, noon, 3 PM, and 6 PMโechoing through the streets just as it did centuries ago.
Thereโs something magical about standing nearby when the bell rings. The deep, resonant sound gives you a feeling of timelessness, as if youโre hearing the heartbeat of the town. Even if youโre just passing by, itโs worth stopping and listening for a moment.
The area around Toki no Kane is also full of charming cafรฉs and shops. Youโll find local artisans selling hand-crafted accessories, vintage souvenirs, and seasonal sweets. It’s a great place to sit down with a cup of matcha and soak in the atmosphere.
At sunset, the tower glows beautifully in the golden light, making it a favorite spot for photos. Whether youโre a history enthusiast or just want to feel the โspiritโ of old Japan, Toki no Kane is not to be missed.
4. Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine: A Whimsical Place of Wishes
Among the many shrines in Japan, Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine (ๅท่ถๆฐทๅท็ฅ็คพ) stands out for its beauty, romantic atmosphere, and unique seasonal displays. Dedicated to deities of love and marriage, this shrine is a popular destination for couples and those hoping to find love.
One of the most eye-catching features is the โEma Tunnelโโa passageway where thousands of ema (wooden wishing plaques) hang, each inscribed with a heartfelt wish. Walking through the tunnel feels intimate and hopeful, as if youโre surrounded by a chorus of dreams.
During certain times of the year (especially summer), the shrine also features a tunnel of colorful pinwheels (้ขจ่ปใฎใใณใใซ) that spin gently in the wind. This display has become a favorite on Instagram, and itโs easy to see whyโitโs playful, vibrant, and absolutely magical.
Visitors can also draw omikuji (fortune slips)โbut with a twist. At Hikawa Shrine, some omikuji are set afloat in water. Watching your fortune gently float is not only calming but also deeply symbolic.
The shrine grounds are peaceful and well-maintained, with stone paths, a small stream, and torii gates adding to the serene atmosphere. Itโs the kind of place that invites you to slow down, reflect, and maybe even make a wish of your own.
Whether you’re visiting for spiritual reasons or just curious to see its seasonal charm, Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine is a highlight you wonโt want to miss. Bring your cameraโand maybe your wish for love, too.
5. Why Kawagoe is the Perfect Day Trip from Tokyo
If you’re staying in Tokyo and looking for an easy, culturally rich escape, Kawagoe is the answer. Located in Saitama Prefecture, it takes just 30 to 60 minutes by train, depending on the line you choose (Tobu Tojo Line, Seibu Shinjuku Line, or JR Kawagoe Line).
What makes Kawagoe special is how walkable and compact it is. You can experience temples, shrines, historic streets, and amazing local foodโall within a half-day trip. Unlike some popular tourist destinations that require hours of hiking or travel between attractions, Kawagoe is ideal for a leisurely stroll.
The town blends old and new in a way that feels authentic but not overly touristy. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or even with kids, Kawagoe offers something for everyoneโfrom historical sights to sweet potato ice cream!
Plus, itโs incredibly photogenic. Whether you’re shooting for Instagram, your travel journal, or just making memories, youโll leave with your camera roll full.
So if you’re planning a visit to Japan and want to explore beyond Tokyoโbut without going too farโKawagoe is the perfect spot. Itโs a peaceful escape that shows a different side of Japan: one thatโs slower, sweeter, and full of charm.
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