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Kawagoe-shi

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Kawagoe-shi

Kawagoe, located in Saitama Prefecture, is a gateway to Japan's famous past, earning it the nickname "Little Edo". This charming town can transport visitors back to the Edo period (1603-1868), a pivotal era characterized by profound cultural evolution.

One of the most visited areas is the iconic Kurazukuri Street, where traditional clay-walled buildings, known as "kurazukuri", line the street. A walk along Kurazukuri Street is a time-traveling experience, allowing visitors to marvel at the architecture and aesthetics of the Edo period. Today, many of these buildings are now restaurants and shops, where tourists can stop and enjoy the city's specialties.

In addition to its historical charm, the city also offers modern pleasures, including vibrant shopping streets, delicious local cuisine, and Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, a Shinto shrine believed to bring good luck in love.

This harmonious blend of history and contemporary appeal cements Kawagoe's status as a living museum, attracting history buffs and curious travelers alike to embark on a fascinating journey through time.

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Travel Tips for Kawagoe-shi

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Kawagoe-shi

A guide to Kawagoe-shi's local transportation

Railways (JR East, Tobu Railway, Seibu Railway)

Local Buses

Car Rentals

Kawagoe has a good railway with a well-equipped station, providing convenient access to the city and surrounding attractions. JR East lines efficiently connect Kawagoe with bustling cities, while Tobu and Seibu Railways offer additional routes for varied exploration of the area.

This comprehensive rail network allows travelers to visit famous spots such as Kurazukuri Street, Kawagoe Castle, Kita-in Shrine, and the Koedo River with ease. The price range for traveling by train is JPY 700.

Practical Tips for Kawagoe-shi

Things to prepare and best way to visit

What is Kawagoe known for?

Kawagoe, known as "Little Edo", preserves the atmosphere of the Edo period (1603-1868) in Japan, characterized by its buildings that are still preserved today. Tourists can visit Kurazukuri Street to see Edo period life.

The historical heritage includes clay-built shops and typical Japanese buildings, which reflect the the lives of Kawagoe's past merchants. With black and white walls, the well-preserved buildings create a charming atmosphere, complementing the cobblestone streets, creating the beauty of Kawagoe. Today, the building is used as a souvenir shop and restaurant, inviting many tourists to stop by.

How Do I Get to Kawagoe Little Edo?

Getting to Kawagoe Little Edo is easy with accessible train options. JR East, Tobu Railway, and Seibu Railway lines efficiently connect Tokyo and the surrounding areas. JR East offers a scenic train ride through the beautiful Saitama countryside.

To reach Kawagoe, you'll need to stop at the conveniently located Kawagoe station, ensuring convenience and proximity to major tourist attractions, such as Kawagoe Castle and the serene Shingashi River. Train ticket prices vary based on the train line chosen and the distance traveled.

How many days do you need to explore Kawagoe?

A day is generally sufficient to explore Kawagoe thoroughly. Start with Kurazukuri Street, visit Kawagoe Castle, and explore Kita-in Temple. Enjoy the local atmosphere at Kawagoe Ichibangai Shopping Street, sampling traditional snacks. In one day, you can immerse yourself in Kawagoe's cultural and historical charm while savoring local cuisine and shopping for souvenirs.

How to Get to Kawagoe from Tokyo by Train?

Getting to Kawagoe from Tokyo by train is a convenient and efficient journey, offering many options for travelers. JR East, Tobu Railway, and Seibu Railway all provide direct routes, ensuring accessibility from various parts of Tokyo.

Trip duration typically ranges from 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the specific train line and departure station in Tokyo. Fees for these train services vary, and passengers can choose the option that best suits their preferences and schedule. Typically, ticket prices to travel from Tokyo to Kawagoe range from JPY840 to JPY1,000.

Can You Use JR Pass to Kawagoe?

Certainly! Travelers equipped with a JR Pass can leverage JR East lines to access Saitama and Kawagoe, providing a cost-effective and convenient transportation solution. The JR Pass covers the fare for JR East trains, offering flexibility for those keen on exploring multiple destinations within the region. The price for JR Tokyo Wide Pass is JPY 15,000 for adults and JPY 7,500 for children and is available to use for 3 days of unlimited travel.