What to know
Kawagoe (川越) is about 30 minutes by train from central Tokyo, making it an ideal day trip. Its main street is lined with kurazukuri (clay-walled warehouse-style) buildings that evoke the atmosphere of an Edo Period (1603–1867) town, letting you step back in time. This has earned Kawagoe the nickname "Little Edo."
During the Edo Period, Kawagoe thrived as a supplier of goods to Tokyo (then called Edo). Because of its strategic and commercial importance, the shogun appointed trusted lords to govern Kawagoe Castle. The close ties between the two cities meant Kawagoe absorbed much of Edo's culture and architecture over the centuries.
One of the Greater Tokyo area's most important temples, Kitain Temple, is Kawagoe's other major attraction. It houses the only surviving structures from the original Edo Castle.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- Closed
- Admission
- English name
- Original name
- Kawagoe
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.