Half-day Kawagoe Walking Tour
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover Kawagoe, a charming old town that once flourished as a castle town during the Edo period.
Stroll through streets lined with beautifully designed buildings, hear the ringing of traditional bells, and experience the elegance of side alleys and backstreets where rickshaws still pass by.
The unique architecture here blends elements from three different eras, Edo, Meiji, and Taisho, offering a rare glimpse into Japan’s rich history and culture that you won’t find in other cities.
・Explore Kawagoe’s historic streets, filled with traditional shops and timeless charm
・Enjoy the sights and sounds of a town where past and present harmoniously meet
・Experience the easy access from central Tokyo, just 30 minutes away, and visit a venue that hosted the golf competitions during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games
Available options
Half-day Kawagoe Walking Tour
What's included
Professional guide
Kitain Temple entrance Fee
Matsumoto Craft Soy Sauce Factory (Only Saturdays,Sundays and Holidays)
Detailed itinerary
1
Kashiya Yokocho
Charming old-fashioned alley known for traditional Japanese sweets shops.
2
Stop 2
Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine
Popular shrine for love charms and its ema (votive tablet) tunnel.
3
Kitain Temple
Historic temple famous for rakan statues and remains of the old Edo Castle.
4
Toki no Kane
Iconic bell tower and symbol of Kawagoe, dating back to the Edo period.
5
Stop 5
Historic street lined with Edo-style buildings and local shops.
6
Historic temple famous for rakan statues and remains of the old Edo Castle.
7
Stop 7
Hikawa Shrine (Itabashi)
Local shrine known for its quiet atmosphere and seasonal festivals.
8
This store is built in a brewery that has made Japanese sake for nearly 120 years. You can buy souvenirs from the local area here.
9
Matsumoto Craft Soy Sauce has passed down the tradition of making soy sauce for over 250 years in Kawagoe. They still use traditional methods to make the soy sauce.
NOTE: It’s only available on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.
What's not included
Food and drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off (This can be arranged for an additional fee)
Available languages
Guide guide
JA
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
This tour can be customized depending on your interests
Small groups, never more than 10 people
Meeting point
Honkawagoe Station
Important notes
You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity
About Kawagoe
Kawagoe, known as 'Little Edo', is a charming city in Saitama Prefecture with a rich history and well-preserved Edo-period architecture. Its historic district, Kurazukuri, features beautiful clay-walled warehouses and traditional streets that transport visitors back in time.
Top Attractions
Kurazukuri Zone
This well-preserved area features traditional clay-walled warehouses and streets that date back to the Edo period. It's a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free to explore, but some attractions may have entry fees
Kashiya Yokocho
Known as 'Candy Alley', this narrow street is lined with traditional Japanese candy shops and small eateries. It's a great place to try local sweets and snacks.
Cultural
1 hour
Free to explore, but purchases will cost money
Toki no Kane (Bell of Time)
This iconic bell tower is a symbol of Kawagoe. Visitors can climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city and learn about its historical significance.
Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
¥300 (approx. $2.50 USD)
Kawagoe Castle
Also known as 'Hikawa Castle', this castle was built in the late 15th century. Though only the foundations and a few structures remain, it's a significant historical site.
Historical
1-2 hours
¥100 (approx. $0.85 USD)
Kitain Temple
This temple is famous for its giant wooden statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The temple grounds are peaceful and offer a serene escape from the bustling city.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free, but donations are appreciated
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kawagoe Melon Pan
A sweet bread roll with a crispy, melon-like crust. It's a popular souvenir and snack in Kawagoe.
Snack
Vegetarian (check for dairy if lactose intolerant)
Senbei (Rice Crackers)
Traditional Japanese rice crackers available in various flavors. They are a staple in Kawagoe's candy shops.
Snack
Vegetarian (check for specific flavors)
Kawagoe Ramen
A local variation of ramen with a rich, soy-based broth and thick noodles. It's a must-try for ramen lovers.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat (vegetarian options may be available)
Sweet Potato
Kawagoe is famous for its sweet potatoes, which are often roasted and served as a sweet treat.
Snack/Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in nearby mountains
Cycling through the city and countryside
Outdoor festivals and events
Onsen (hot springs) in nearby areas
Strolling through the historic district
Tea ceremonies and cultural experiences
Visiting temples and shrines
Traditional crafts workshops
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
Spring brings cherry blossoms and pleasant weather, while autumn offers beautiful fall foliage. These seasons are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
Japan Standard Time (JST, GMT+9)
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Kawagoe is a very safe city with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, travelers should still take basic precautions to protect their belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Use licensed taxis and reputable tour operators.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.
Getting there
By air
- Narita International Airport • 80 km
- Haneda Airport • 50 km
By train
Kawagoe Station
By bus
Kawagoe Station Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Trains are efficient and cover most of the city. They are the best option for reaching major attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Kurazukuri Zone
Kawagoe Station Area
Residential Areas
Day trips
Tokyo
30 km • Half day to full day
Tokyo, Japan's capital, offers a vast array of attractions, from historic temples and museums to modern shopping and entertainment districts.
Chichibu
40 km • Full day
Chichibu is a scenic area known for its mountains, rivers, and traditional festivals. It's a great destination for outdoor activities and cultural experiences.
Nikko
80 km • Full day or overnight
Nikko is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning shrines, temples, and natural beauty. It's a must-visit destination for history and nature enthusiasts.
Festivals
Kawagoe Festival • Mid-October (annual)
Kawagoe Cherry Blossom Festival • Late March to early April (annual, depending on cherry blossom season)
Kawagoe Fireworks Festival • First Saturday of October (annual)
Pro tips
- Visit the historic district early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
- Try local specialties like melon pan, senbei, and Kawagoe ramen for an authentic culinary experience.
- Consider wearing a traditional kimono while exploring the historic district for a unique and memorable experience.
- Use an IC card (Suica or Pasmo) for convenient and discounted public transport fares.
- Check the schedule for festivals and events, as they can significantly enhance your visit and provide a deeper understanding of local culture.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
