We will introduce 30 famous spots (in no particular order) that are packed with the charm of Kawagoe, combining the perspectives of both locals and tourists.
Bell of Time
It is a symbol of Kawagoe and a historic bell tower that has been telling the time since the Edo period.
Storehouse-style streetscape
This is the central area for sightseeing in Kawagoe, lined with black plaster storehouses that retain the atmosphere of the Edo period and is a fun place to stroll around.
Candy Alley
Lined with nostalgic sweet shops, it is a spot that both children and adults can enjoy.
Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine
The largest shrine in Kawagoe. Famous for its god of matchmaking, the wind chime tunnel is also a popular photo spot.
Kita-in Temple
It is the largest temple in Kawagoe (and also the largest religious facility) and a central figure in Kawagoe tourism. It is a temple with ties to the Tokugawa family, and the building, which was moved from Edo Castle, is also worth seeing.
Nakain
This tranquil temple is blessed with beautiful weeping cherry blossoms and is also home to the grave of tea master Yamazaki Sokan.
Naritasan Kawagoe Betsuin Temple
Known for warding off evil spirits, it is a place of faith that attracts many worshippers every year.
Honmaru Palace (Kawagoe Castle ruins)
The current building is part of a reconstruction that was carried out in 1848, and the entrance hall, large hall, and chief retainer’s quarters remain, evoking the dignity of the Kawagoe domain with a fief of 170,000 koku.
Remains of Fujimi Tower
This is the location of Kawagoe Castle’s watchtower, where you can apparently see Mount Fuji.
Kawagoe Festival Hall
Kawagoe’s gorgeous floats are on display, allowing you to experience the charm of festivals all year round.
Former Yamazaki Family Villa
This Taisho-era mansion combines Japanese and Western styles and also has a tranquil garden. It has been designated an Important Cultural Property.
Storehouse Museum
This is a facility where you can learn about the structure and history of storehouse architecture, and is a great place to stop by before walking around the town. As of June 2025, the facility is currently closed due to earthquake-resistance construction work.
The reopening date has not yet been decided. The museum has been closed since 2016 due to earthquake-resistance construction work, but the damage to the building was more severe than expected, so the decision was made to demolish it and rebuild it. Furthermore, the construction work has been suspended since the construction contractor went bankrupt in 2020, and although earthquake-resistance construction work is scheduled to be completed by fiscal year 2026, a specific reopening date has not been officially announced.
Taisho Romantic Dream Street
This street recreates the atmosphere of the Taisho period, lined with retro buildings and stores. Formerly known as Ginza Shopping Street, it was a shopping street famous for its arcades.
Clare Mall Shopping Street
This lively shopping street stretches 1.2km from Kawagoe Station and is perfect for shopping and eating.
Renkeiji Temple
It is an ancient temple beloved by local residents, and there are amulet and dumpling shops within the grounds.
Senba Riverside Historical Park
This park is close to the city and is rich in nature, with the remains of a boat dock from the early Meiji period and a spring-fed wetland. There are boardwalks and footpaths within the park, allowing you to enjoy observing plants and wild birds.
Little Edo Kurari
This tourist facility was repurposed from a sake brewery with approximately 120 years of history, and you can enjoy souvenirs and local sake here.
Risona Coedo Terrace
This historic bank building is designated as a registered tangible cultural property, and is impressive for its stately modern architecture. Its exterior, which conveys the Western-style architecture of the Taisho era, adds a touch of elegance to the Kawagoe streetscape and is a popular photo spot for tourists.
Matsumoto Soy Sauce Shop
This is a long-established brewery that you can tour and where you can enjoy the aroma of soy sauce made using traditional methods.
Ganja Main Store
A long-established Kawagoe ramen restaurant. Both the ramen and tsukemen are delicious. In front of Hon-Kawagoe Station. Please note that it is closed on Sundays.
Kawagoe City Museum
This is a learning center for local residents where you can learn more about the history and culture of Kawagoe. It is next to the Municipal Museum of Art. A combined ticket costs 300 yen, making it a good deal.
Kawagoe City Museum of Art
This is a museum with a calm atmosphere that exhibits works by local artists. It is next to the city museum. A combined ticket costs 300 yen, which is a good deal.
Kawagoe Kumano Shrine
It is said to bring good luck and fortune, and the stone-paved foot reflexology paths are a famous attraction.
Senba Toshogu Shrine
This historic shrine enshrines Tokugawa Ieyasu, and its quiet grounds exude a sense of dignity. It is located within the grounds of Kita-in Temple and is designated as an Important Cultural Property.
Natural Small Trip Kawagoe Onsen
This is the manager’s favorite natural hot spring. It’s the perfect place to relax after touring Koedo Kawagoe.
Ruins of the Shingashi River river bank
This is the site of a wharf that once flourished through shipping on the Shingashi River. You can still sense the atmosphere of the boat wholesale merchants that prospered at the time.
Isanuma Park
Isanuma is the largest natural lake in Saitama Prefecture. You can enjoy rows of cherry blossom trees and fresh green willows.
Koaze Waterbird Village Park
A park with walking paths around the stormwater adjustment pond. It is a resting and nesting site for many waterfowl.
Kawagoe Water Park
This is a vast prefectural park where citizens can relax and enjoy the lively pool in the summer. A flea market is also held here.
Oisezuka Park
The park features a forest that still retains the image of Musashino, as well as a gourd-shaped pond. It is perfect for a stroll. There is also a municipal tennis court.
