Things to do in Kawagoe

Toki no Kane, a 16-meter wooden bell tower, has chimed four times daily since the Edo period. Stroll through Kawagoe's historic Kurazukuri Zone to hear this living tradition amid traditional warehouse buildings.

This 6th-century shrine draws couples seeking romantic blessings with its matchmaking powers. During summer, thousands of colourful wind chimes create a magical atmosphere during the Enmusubi Festival.

Step back in time at Sweets Alley, where traditional Japanese confectionery shops line a historic cobblestone street. Sample handcrafted sweets like karinto and rice crackers in this nostalgic slice of old Japan.

Explore the Honmaru Goten, one of Japan's few remaining castle palaces from the feudal era. Inside, spacious tatami rooms and traditional gardens transport visitors to the world of Edo-period samurai lords.

Step back in time along Kurazukuri no Machinami's clay-walled warehouses, where Edo-period architecture creates "Little Edo." Explore traditional shops in historic buildings.

This museum preserves 370 years of Kawagoe Festival heritage with authentic floats and costumes. Visit on Sundays to experience live musical performances that bring Japan's cultural traditions to life.

This serene 11th-century shrine offers spiritual blessings for victory, matchmaking, and health. Visit the sacred ginkgo tree, believed to bring love, and the attentive "listening statue" of Prince Shotoku.

Kitain Temple features the only surviving structures from Edo Castle, including the third shogun's birth room. Explore 500 unique Rakan statues, each with distinct expressions showcasing centuries of Buddhist artistry.