Steller: Create Beautiful Social Media Stories

Kawagoe

Welcome to Kawagoe, the charming city of Saitama! Stroll through the quaint streets lined with traditional clay-walled warehouses, transporting you back to ancient Japan. Savor delicious street food like sweet potato fries and my personal favorite, the pillowy Takoyaki. Don't forget to take home some unique souvenirs, like adorable kendama toys or kitschy samurai-themed socks. Kawagoe is a hidden gem waiting to be explored!

From the Community

Recommendations

Culture4.3/5

Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine

Welcome to the mystical Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine in Saitama, Japan! This hidden gem will transport you to a world of ancient traditions. Marvel at the stunning red torii gate and make a wish at the divine water well. Pay your respects to the deities and soak in the serene atmosphere. Perfect for a spiritual escape amidst bustling city life!

Culture4.1/5

Kawagoe City Museum

Kawagoe history museum with a compact overview of the area's past. English summaries accompany the displays, with fuller explanations in Japanese.

Culture4.2/5

Kita-in

Get ready for a time travel adventure at Kawagoe Kita-in Temple in Japan! This temple, located at 〒350-0036 Saitama, Kawagoe, Kosenbamachi, 1-chōme−２０−１, will transport you back to ancient Japan with its stunning architecture and serene gardens. Marvel at the Thousand Armed Kannon statue and don't miss the cute turtle pond. A perfect blend of tranquility and excitement awaits you!

Landmark3.9/5

Kawagoe Castle

Welcome to the quirky remains of Kawagoe Castle in Japan! Nestled in Saitama, this ancient beauty takes you back in time with its majestic ruins. With its address at 〒350-0053 Saitama, Kawagoe, Kuruwamachi, 2-chōme−１３−番地, this castle is a must-see for history buffs and curious travelers alike. Explore the grounds, imagine its former glory, and have a blast stepping into the past!

Landmark4.1/5

Kawagoe Park

Get ready for a splash-tastic adventure at Kawagoe Aquatic Park in Saitama, Japan! This water wonderland offers a variety of exciting pools, thrilling water slides, and relaxing hot springs to make your visit unforgettable. It's perfect for families, friends, or even solo travelers looking to beat the heat. So grab your swimsuit and dive into endless fun at Kawagoe Aquatic Park!

Culture4/5

Kawagoe City Central Library

This three-story library has a children's corner with English-language books and weekend read-alouds. The top floor is set aside for self-study.

Transport3.8/5

Kawagoe Station

Welcome to Kawagoe Station, where old meets new in the charming city of Kawagoe! This lively transportation hub is located in Wakitahoncho, Saitama, and is a gateway to cultural wonders. Marvel at the ancient Bell Tower, explore the traditional warehouses turned trendy shops, and don't miss the iconic "Little Edo" district. With its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, Kawagoe Station will whisk you away to a bygone era while keeping you thoroughly entertained.

Shop3.7/5

Maruhiro Kawagoe Store

Kawagoe's department store turned its rooftop amusement park into open green space. On the sixth floor, kids can play with toys in the toy shop.

Landmark4.3/5

Ichibangai Shotengai

Clay-walled merchant houses line this Kawagoe shopping street, with shops selling sweet-potato treats and souvenirs. The Toki no Kane bell tower rises above the street.

Landmark3.9/5

Kawagoe sports park

School teams play tournaments across the fields at this Kawagoe sports park. It also has indoor courts and a playground for small children.

Culture4.2/5

Kawagoe Matsuri Kaikan

Kawagoe festival museum with detailed exhibits on its floats and a short audiovisual presentation. Staff and volunteers explain traditions still followed today.

Culture4.1/5

Kawagoe Kurazukuri Museum

Get ready to step back in time at the Kawagoe Kurazukuri Museum in Japan! Located at 〒350-0063 Saitama, Kawagoe, Saiwaichō, ７−９, this museum is a treasure trove of history. Explore the traditional Kurazukuri warehouses that line the streets, filled with fascinating exhibits and artifacts. Don't forget to try on a kimono and capture the moment in a photo booth. A must-Visit for history buffs and culture enthusiasts!

Culture3.6/5

Shinmei Shrine

Nestled among serene nature, Shinmei Shrine is a hidden gem in Kawagoe. With its vibrant red torii gates, this enchanting shrine invites you to embark on a whimsical journey. Explore the beautifully landscaped grounds, soak up the spiritual atmosphere, and don't forget to make a wish at the main hall! A must-visit destination for curious souls and lovers of Japanese culture.

Culture4.1/5

Renkeiji Temple

Small Buddhist temple in Kawagoe with a compact compound.

Eat$$3.8/5

いろり

Yakitori restaurant with yakiton, beer and other snacks.

Shop4/5

Koedo Kurari

This Kawagoe sake shop sells local brewery bottles, with vending machines dispensing small sake tastings for tokens.

Cafe$$$4.1/5

Kona's Coffee Fujimino

Welcome to the caffeine oasis of Fujimino! Kona's Coffee awaits, nestled in the vibrant 3-chōme-9-1 Tsurugamai. This gem of a café offers a delightful blend of rich, aromatic Japanese coffee and a cozy atmosphere. Sip on your brew while embracing Saitama's charm. Cheers to an unforgettable caffeine adventure in the heart of Japan!

Cafe$$$4.2/5

Kawagoe Art Cafe Elevato

Old-building art cafe in Kawagoe, with a downstairs bar and local artists’ work upstairs.

Stays

Stay$$$4.4/5

Kawagoe Tobu Hotel

Set within 2.3 km of Candy Alley and 11 km of Lalaport Fujimi, Kawagoe Tobu Hotel offers rooms in Kawagoe. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage space, along with free WiFi. The hotel will provide guests with air-conditioned rooms offering a desk, a kettle, a fridge, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV. At Kawagoe Tobu Hotel every room has bed linen and towels. Guests at the accommodation can enjoy a buffet breakfast. The nearest airport is Tokyo Haneda International Airport, 47 km from Kawagoe Tobu Hotel.

Stay$$$$4/5

Kawagoe Prince Hotel

Directly connected to Hon-kawagoe Train Station, Kawagoe Prince Hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and guest rooms with free Wi-Fi. The historic Kura-no-machi area in Kawagoe can be reached within a 20-minute walk. Each room comes with a flat-screen satellite TV, a fridge and an electric kettle with tea bags. The en suite bathroom includes a bath tub and free toiletries. Laundry services and drinks vending machines are available. The hotel is a 10-minute walk from JR Kawagoe Station. Kita-in Temple is located a 15-minute walk away. A shopping mall is connected to the hotel. Shinjuku area is a 45-minute train ride from Honkawagoe Station. Etoile restaurant offers hearty buffets including a Japanese/Western breakfast buffet, while Kokiden serves lavish Chinese cuisine. Delicately prepared Japanese meals can be savoured at Musashino restaurant.

Stay$$$3.5/5

Kawagoe Daiichi Hotel

Kawagoe Daiichi Hotel in Kawagoe offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, baths, bidets, and free toiletries. Each room includes a work desk, TV, and wardrobe. Guests enjoy free WiFi, a restaurant serving Japanese cuisine, and complimentary bicycles. Additional amenities include a lift, 24-hour front desk, daily housekeeping, full-day security, bicycle parking, and luggage storage. A continental and Asian breakfast is available each morning. The on-site restaurant provides a relaxing dining experience. Located 61 km from Tokyo Haneda Airport, the hotel is situated in Kawagoe, Japan. Nearby attractions include Kawagoe Castle and the Kawagoe Museum.

Stay4.2/5

Matsumuraya

Welcome to Matsumuraya in Kawagoe, Japan! This vibrant spot is a must-visit for any traveler seeking an authentic slice of Japanese culture. With its lively streets, traditional teahouses, and charming shops, Matsumuraya is the perfect place to get lost and discover hidden treasures. Don't forget to try some local snacks like sweet potato ice cream and get lost in the nostalgic atmosphere of this delightful town.

Stay3.8/5

Hotel Luna

Kawagoe hotel with spacious rooms, old-fashioned decor and wide tubs. Meals and rental items are ordered on a tablet in the room.

Things To Do
Provided by

5/5

1 h 30 mins

Little EDO Sushi Making workshop in Kawagoe

Our globally experienced, English-speaking Japanese female sushi chef will teach you the art of traditional sushi making in a 140-year-old historic building, now a beloved local cafe. Class Style: Hands-on Experience: you'll create your sushi under the guidance of our expert sushi chef. Can you replicate the Japanese sushi chef's skillful hand movements? What You'll Learn: Learn how to make perfect sushi rice that you can easily recreate at home. Cultural Insights: Did you know nigiri sushi was created in Japan 300 years ago? See the amazing staircase cabinets in our historic building, once a rice wholesale shop. The beautiful ceiling beams will take you back 100 years! Dietary Options: We cater to a vegetarian menu. Please inform us of any allergies in advance. We are unable to accommodate requests on the day of the class.

$83.23

5/5

4 h

Kawagoe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

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.

$107.28

5 h

Kawagoe Private Custom Tour with Local Guide

Step back into the Edo period on a locally guided walk through Kawagoe, known as 'Little Edo.' Explore Ichibangai, a preserved street lined with traditional merchant buildings, and see the iconic Bell Tower (Toki no Kane), which has chimed for over 400 years. Continue to Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, known for matchmaking blessings, featuring wooden ema plaques and summer wind chimes. Continue to Kawagoejyo Honmaru Palace, the restored residence of feudal lords, offering tatami rooms and insight into samurai governance. The public-transport version stays within this compact historic core, where all three sights sit within 1.2km of each other. The private-vehicle version adds a fourth stop, Kitain Temple, a 9th-century temple about 1.5km south home to original Edo Castle palace buildings and carved stone Rakan statues—a detour made easy by a short drive that the walking itinerary cannot comfortably absorb in the same time.

$195.06

3.5/5

4 h

Half-day Kawagoe Walking Tour

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

$97.53

5/5

1 h 45 mins

Jizo Wood Carving Experience in Kawagoe

A clean room in a public facility just a 5-minute walk from the popular tourist spot Kawagoe's kura-zukuri district is the place to experience the program. You will finish a small Jizo, one of the most popular Japanese Buddhist statue sculptures, by wood carving. It is easy even for beginners as you only have to finish a half-finished piece up to rough carving. The instructor, who has 24 years of experience as an artist, will kindly and carefully instruct you how to hold and use a carving knife. There are two types of Jizo, a small one and a slightly larger one, but you can prepare your favorite one upon prior consultation if you wish.

$65.02

5/5

Private Tour to Kawagoe with Photographer and Spanish-Speaking Guide

Kawagoe, a charming old town just an hour from Tokyo, is perfect for those looking to experience Japanese culture and history, as well as enjoy shopping and delicious food. Explore hidden places accompanied by a professional Japanese photographer who speaks Spanish, who will take many photos of you. Enjoy a private photo session, a truly magnificent area. I am a freelance photographer and I take portraits of families and business people. I have six years of experience, during which I have photographed more than 2,000 portraits. In addition, I am licensed as a professional Spanish-speaking guide. Forget selfies! If you wish to attend in a kimono, please let me know at the time of request. You can choose from dozens of different kimonos in the colors and prints you like the most. The shopkeeper will help you get dressed. There are also kimonos for men. You don't need to bring anything as you can purchase everything (includes obi, sandals and bag).

$310.00

4.7/5

Kawagoe: Family-Friendly Kimono & Yukata Experience at WARGO

Experience Japan in a Traditional Kimono at WARGO Step into Japanese culture by wearing a beautiful kimono and exploring the streets around any WARGO store nationwide. Capture stunning photos, create unforgettable memories, and fully immerse yourself in the timeless Japanese atmosphere. Choose from a wide range of kimonos, from classic traditional patterns to modern designs. Our experienced staff will assist you with dressing, ensuring a comfortable and authentic experience. Plus-size kimonos are available, so everyone can join in! Your package includes the kimono, sash belt (obi), Japanese clutch, sandals, and socks. Hairstyling is also available at an additional cost for those who want the complete look. The dressing process is quick—often under an hour—so you can set off on your adventure right away. Make your visit truly special by stepping out in style, exploring, and creating lasting memories at any WARGO store across Japan!

$31.40

1 h 45 mins

Making wooden iPhone cases in a 200-year-old Japanese house

The venue is a 200-year-old traditional Japanese house registered as a national tangible cultural property, with tatami mat rooms. You will finish carving a wooden iphone case with a sharp Japanese carving knife. The soft and light paulownia wood is used to glue the case to the soft clear case, so it is easy to make! The instructor, who has 24 years of experience as an artist, will kindly and carefully instruct you how to hold and use the carving knife. Please let us know in advance which iphone series the case is compatible with. If you have a design request, we can discuss it with you in advance and prepare your favorite design. You can choose between beeswax finish and acrylic coloring.

$74.77

Kawagoe Walking Tour with Local Student Guide & Photographer

Explore Kawagoe with a Local University Student from Japan’s Top Schools Wander through the charming streets of Kawagoe, also known as Coedo (“Little Edo”), a town filled with Edo-period architecture, retro shops, and a timeless atmosphere. This relaxed walking tour is led by a local university student from one of Japan’s top-tier universities, offering a fresh, youthful, and down-to-earth perspective—no long lectures, just a smooth-paced and friendly experience. Along the way, your guide will also act as your personal photographer, capturing professional-quality photos of you and your group at the most scenic spots—perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want to stay in the moment. To top it off, enjoy Kawagoe’s signature dish—Unagi (grilled eel)—a rich local favorite with deep cultural roots. Whether you're here for the culture, the food, or the photos, this tour is a fun and casual way to experience a slice of traditional Japan.

$275.00

6 h

Tokyo: Chichibu Valley Driving Tour to Buddhist Temples

First, you will meet the guide, Ryo in front of the entrance of Seibu-Ikebukuro Line(East side of JR Ikebukuro station). After having 80min trip by an express train to Seibu-Chichibu station, your guide, Ryo will accompany you to 5 different Buddhist temples that has nice sceneries of nature and a variety of Buddhist deity statues by car. Ryo will explain the significance of Buddhism among Japanese people and how it is related to their lives. Next, Ryo will also take you to a nice observatory that you can access after a short walk in the forest, and where you can see the whole valley of Chichibu city and the mountains. From that place, you can see a variety of Geographic features, such as the symbolic mountain of Chichibu, Mt. Buko. At the end, you will visit Chichibu Shrine that is known for Chichibu Night Festival and you can learn how it is unique since the ancient times.

$77.99

8 h

Yokosuka military port and navy related sites with a local guide

Let's take a walk in the Yokosuka area, where the Mikasa, one of the world's three most famous memorial ships, is preserved! Mikasa fought valiantly as the flagship of the Allied Fleet led by Commander-in-Chief Heihachiro Togo during the Battle of the Sea of Japan, contributing to the historic victory. The battleship Mikasa is kept in Mikasa Park, where visitors can see a statue of Heihachiro Togo and other spots that symbolize the era. Walking around this area, which has a unique atmosphere of both Japan and the United States as a town of the U.S. military stationed in Yokosuka after World War II, will surely be a memorable part of your trip. It is also possible, in consultation with a guide, to visit places outside the Yokosuka area that are associated with warships. The tours are very satisfying for warship enthusiasts and veterans.

$1,400.10

5/5

1 h

Tokyo Authentic Sumo Experience – Master the Art of Sumo

Experience authentic sumo training led by former makuuchi and professional wrestlers. Out of around 700 active sumo wrestlers, only 40 reach the elite makuuchi rank—train directly with them here. Unlike traditional sumo, this experience is open to men, women, and children. Learn real techniques, explore sumo culture, and enjoy a rare photoshoot wearing a mawashi. A truly unforgettable experience you can only have here. You can take home a commemorative shikishi board with the handprint and autograph of a former sumo wrestler as a souvenir of your experience.

$97.53

4.5/5

1 h 30 mins

Nara: 1.5 Hour Private Kasuga Taisha Shrine Tour - World Heritage

Experience Nara’s spiritual essence with our 90-minute guided tour of Kasuga Taisha Shrine and Nara Park, perfect for cultural explorers and families. Start at the revered Kasuga Taisha, a Shinto shrine rich in centuries-old traditions, and immerse yourself in its captivating history and lush, sacred forest. Benefit from insider knowledge as you stroll through serene woodlands and encounter the sacred deer, divine messengers that enhance your connection to nature and spirituality. This tour offers a memorable blend of cultural depth and natural beauty, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all ages.

$107.28

1 h 30 mins

Private Samurai Costume Photo shooting in Gyoda Oshi Castle

About 1 hour from Tokyo by public transportation. Enjoy the experience of wearing armor at Oshijo Castle, a Japanese Heritage Site in Gyoda City, Saitama Prefecture. This plan allows you to feel like a samurai in a casual way. Why don't you come and explore “Oshijo Castle” and the castle town of Gyoda in samurai costume?

$48.77

5/5

Countryside Walking & Mountain Hiking in Organic Town Near Tokyo

In Ogawamachi, one of the towns most active in organic farming in Japan, we will begin with a delightful walk along the river in the scenic countryside, followed by a hike in the mountains, descending into our managed forest. Here, we will enjoy some relaxing time and forest bathing. Lunch, featuring local organic vegetables, will be prepared for those who opt in. Lunch is optional

$39.01

2 h

Urawa Reds Football Game at Saitama Stadium 2002

Seeing Urawa Reds play a football game at Saitama stadium 2002 is an experience like no other. Enjoy assigned seating with your game ticket and be there live to see the thrilling action on the field as the biggest stars in the Japanese football put on a show you'll never forget. With a wide range of concessions, facilities and matchday entertainment on hand, whether you're a solo traveller, or attending with friends and loved ones, a trip to the football to see Urawa Reds is an experience not to be missed!

$40.00

7 h

Tokyo to Saitama Phantom Amarin Private Tour

- Direct Trip to the "Phantom Amanin" Strawberry Fields: Enjoy an all-you-can-eat experience of the rare Amanin strawberry right in the greenhouse. Travel comfortably with round-trip transfer via Jumbo Taxi from major locations in Tokyo, stepping straight out of the door into the expansive strawberry fields. - Interactive Farm Experience and Souvenir: The strawberry greenhouse is full of unique activities! We will show you special ways to enjoy the farm, far beyond simple all-you-can-eat. In the latter half, you can participate in a packing experience, filling a gift box with Amanin to take home as a souvenir for yourself, family, or friends. - Lunch at the Popular Happy Time Cafe: Includes lunch at the highly popular Happy Time Cafe. Although the cafe normally has long lines and does not accept reservations, special seating is secured exclusively for your tour participants. Enjoy a meal and drinks featuring locally grown vegetables nurtured in the same soil as the strawberries.

$1,072.83

1 h 30 mins

Saitama Matsuoka Brewery Tour with Sake Tasting

Discover the artistry of Japanese sake at Matsuoka Brewery in Ogawa Town, Saitama Prefecture. This immersive tour offers a deep dive into the sake-making process, where tradition meets craftsmanship in a UNESCO-recognized setting. Guided by knowledgeable staff, guests will explore production areas and learn about the intricate techniques involved from rice polishing to fermentation. The experience culminates in a tasting session, highlighting the elegance and balance of Matsuoka’s sakes, paired with insights into the cultural significance of these beverages. This tour is perfect for both beginners and enthusiasts looking to expand their understanding of Japanese brewing traditions. - Guided tour of Matsuoka Brewery with insights into sake production - Tasting session featuring a selection of Matsuoka’s crafted sakes - Experience the connection between sake and Japanese washi-making heritage - Personal stories and historical anecdotes from passionate brewery staff

$130.04

A One Day Walking Escape from Tokyo Discovering Ogawa Saitama

This walking tour offers an experience you simply can’t have by staying and sightseeing only in central Tokyo. Just 70 minutes from the city, it’s an easy day trip into Japan’s satoyama countryside, adding a refreshing accent to your Tokyo stay. Designed for travelers from Europe, North America, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and other regions who enjoy longer, more relaxed journeys, this tour invites you to slow down and walk through a peaceful rural landscape shaped by tradition and nature. Along the way, you’ll savor local foods, craft beer, regional sake, and Japanese wine, experiencing the gentle, authentic flavors of the countryside that rarely reach urban tables. It’s an ideal balance of accessibility and depth—a culturally rich, leisurely walking experience that reveals a quieter, more intimate side of Japan, without the need for an overnight trip.

$52.02

1 h 30 mins

Authentic Matcha Experience in a Traditional Japanese Tea Room

Experience how to enjoy the tea ceremony as a guest in a mindful, authentic Japanese Garden in Kumagaya City (Only a 24-min bullet train ride from Tokyo Station)!! Escape the crowds of Tokyo and experience the tea ceremony in a peaceful traditional garden! In this unique session, you will enjoy experiencing thin tea (Usucha) and sweets, as well as the deep art of utensil viewing (Haiken). Enjoy the tea ceremony mindfully with using five senses. Perfect for beginners looking to relax and connect with Japanese culture!