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.

1. 1

   Kawagoe Ichibangai Shopping Street

   2 hours

   A historic shopping street lined with beautifully preserved Edo-period buildings, offering traditional crafts, sweets, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to experience the charm of "Little Edo. An iconic symbol of Kawagoe, this wooden bell tower has been ringing for over 400 years. It stands as a reminder of the city’s history and continues to chime several times a day.

2. 2

   Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine

   2 hours

   A Shinto shrine known for its strong connection to matchmaking and love, attracting many visitors seeking blessings for relationships. The shrine also features a picturesque display of wooden ema (wishes plaques) and flowing wind chimes in summer.

3. 3

   Kawagoejyo Honmaru Palace

   1 hour

   The Honmaru Goten, or main residence, served as the administrative and living quarters for the castle’s lords. Although much of the original castle was lost, the Honmaru has been restored and now functions as a museum where visitors can explore traditional tatami rooms, see historical artifacts, and learn about the history of Kawagoe’s samurai governance. The simple and elegant design reflects the practical nature of a feudal lord's residence during the Edo period.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.