Kawagoe 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide (Kawagoe Dep)
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Kawagoe 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide (Kawagoe Dep)

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(12 reviews)
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience

This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Kawagoe!

Kawagoe was a prominent castle town in the Edo period and was known at that time as Ko-edo, or Little Edo (former name of Tokyo). About 30 minutes by train from central Tokyo, Kawagoe features many historical buildings, shrines and temples, and offers many regional food and drinks, as well as unique souvenir items.

Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a four-hour tour that's best for you!

Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary.
Note*2: National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

Available options

Kawagoe 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide (Kawagoe Dep)

Pickup included

What's included

Meet up with guide on foot within designated area of Kawagoe
Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
Customizable Tour of your choice of 2-3 sites from 'What to expect' list

Detailed itinerary

1

Toki no Kane is a symbol of Kawagoe. Because there were no clocks in the Edo period, this tower has told the time to the people of Kawagoe by its ringing bell. Even today, you can hear the bell at 6 am, 12pm, 3 pm and 6 pm. Toki no Kane, along with the surrounding environment retains the vestiges of the Edo period.

2

There are many restaurants in this warehouse-style building. You can eat Japanese dishes such as kamameshi (a rice, meat and vegetable dish served in a small pot) and ramen. There is also a free rest place, so why not take a rest here when you are tired from walking?

3

Not only did Kawagoe flourish as a castle town, but there were also many prosperous merchants living in warehouse-style architectures. Such a streetscape, where many warehouse-style buildings remain is rare even in Japan. In this museum, you can actually enter the warehouse and look around it.

4

Kawagoe was a castle town of Kawagoe Castle in the Edo period. Most of the Castle does not remain anymore today, but the entrance and a few rooms are open to the public. The outfit back in those days and dolls of feudal lords are on exhibit. The stately atmosphere makes you feel almost as if you were back in those days.

5
Stop 5

As a sacred place for love, “Hikawa Jinja [shrine]” is an extremely popular place among attractions of Kawagoe. There is an amulet called “Enmusubi dama [love success stone]”, which is very famous as a lucky charm for love. You must get one when you visit Kawagoe with someone you care about.

Other than that, people visit this place to pray for safe delivery, baby’s health, and shichigosan celebration (young child celebration). They also open for shinto wedding ceremonies. Really holy place. Come and visit to pray for a happy love life. You can get pretty shinto charms and paper amulets, which would be good souvenirs and gifts.

6

Kawagoe City Museum is another must-visit place as an attraction of Kawagoe. There are many historical buildings in Kawagoe, and that is why this city is called Koedo [little Edo]. The exterior of this musuem is distinctive and impressive. A museum with a simple tranquil Japanese appearance would be rare. Definitely worth to see!

Thier exhibits include: artworks created by artists related to Kawagoe, exhibitions, citizenship gallery, etc. Being a locally based museum, this place is very popular among students too. Interesting place to visit.

7

“Kitain” is a buddhist temple which you will not want to miss when you travel to Kawagoe. This temple has been standing there for about 1200 years. Its magnificent atmosphere keeps attracting people who visit. There are many highlights inside the temple, but the view around this place is also excellent. Being filled with beautiful green plants and flowers that bloom in each season, this temple is a great place where people can enjoy its natural environment.

This temple has 7 mysterious stories passed from generation to generation. You might want to hear them. Nice temple to visit and refresh yourself. You would feel great.

8

Japanese castles are very popular as a tourist attraction. Highly admired by not only domestic but also foreign tourists because those castles directly offer a sense of Japanese history. Since there are various castles all over Japan, many people would visit to enjoy a distinctive castle view owned by each area.

Kawagoe has such a castle attraction too. It is not that the entire castle remains as it was, but this place is a great historical attraction. With brilliant cherry blossoms blooming, it looks really elegant in spring. Perfect place for history lovers. Head there and enjoy a castle view in Kawagoe.

9

To enjoy onsen is one of the best things about traveling in Japan. Kawagoe also has a popular natural hot spring facility, “Kawagoe Onsen”. They offer various types of wood made baths and stone made baths.

The various baths includes: warm bath, hot bath, carbon dioxide bath, special bath, and lie-down bath. So much fun! Beyond that, sauna, eatery, and massage are also available. Tourists often need to walk for sightseeing in Kawagoe because the entire town is an attraction. Take a break at Kawagoe Onsen when you are tired.

10

There are many various festivals in Japan. Some people would get excited just by thinking about them. There must be many tourists who want to experience local festivals in each area. Kawagoe also has a traditional festival, “Kawagoe Matsuri [festival]”. By this traditional local event, the entire town gets so busy and filled with enthusiasm.

The sad point is that those kind of experiences are on offer only in festival season. However, at Kawagoe Matsuri Kaikan, it is possible to feel the excitement all through a year. There are many things that relate to Kawagoe Festival such as displays of floats, photo corners, and so on. Fun place to experience a dynamic festival world.

What's not included

Transportation fees, Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
Private Vehicle
You cannot combine multiple tour groups.
Guide Entry fees are only covered for sights listed under What to Expect.

Available languages

Guide guide
JA EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
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Tripadvisor 5.0
7 reviews
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Important information

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This is a walking tour. Pick up is on foot.

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

Adults
Age 12-99
1
Childs
Age 6-11
0
Infants
Age 0-5
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 10
  • Adult required for booking
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Free cancellation available
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