Discover the deep connection between Kawagoe and Tokyo (formerly Edo) on this private 5-hour guided tour. Explore rich history, historic structures relocated from Edo Castle, and famous local sweet potato delicacies.
Getting to Kawagoe (Access)
Kawagoe is easily accessible from major stations in central Tokyo using three convenient train lines, taking about 30 to 60 minutes:
- Tobu Tojo Line (Recommended)
- From Ikebukuro: Express / Semi-Express trains directly to Kawagoe Station (approx. 30–35 minutes).
- JR Saikyo Line / Kawagoe Line
- From Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Omiya: Direct trains to Kawagoe Station (approx. 55 minutes from Shinjuku).
- Seibu Shinjuku Line
- From Seibu-Shinjuku: Limited Express or Express trains to Hon-Kawagoe Station (approx. 45–60 minutes).
Tour Overview
| Item | Details |
| Meeting Location | Kawagoe Station (JR / Tobu) or Hon-Kawagoe Station (Seibu) |
| Ending Location | Kawagoe Station or Hon-Kawagoe Station |
| Time | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Duration: 5 hours) |
| Group Size | 1 to 7 guests (Private Tour) |
| Guide Fee | 27,500 JPY |
| Additional Costs | Kitain Temple Admission Fee: 400 JPY per person (Pay on-site) |
| Walking Distance | Approx. 8 km / 5 miles (Local buses available if preferred) |
About This Tour
Kawagoe holds a special connection to Tokyo’s past: original palace rooms from Edo Castle—including the birth chamber of the third Tokugawa Shogun, Iemitsu—were relocated here and remain preserved today. While modern development transformed Tokyo after the 19th century, Kawagoe retains the historic architectural styles and charm that vanished from the capital.
On this tour, we will uncover these historical ties while strolling through the historic town. You will also learn about Kawagoe’s famous sweet potato culture—from its roots as a major farming center to tasting a variety of local sweet potato treats along the way.
Tour Itinerary
- Kawagoe Station (10:00 AM – Meet up)
- Senba Toshogu Shrine & Kitain Temple (Explore Edo Castle relics and Tokugawa family heritage)
- Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine
- Lunch Break (Guided to a recommended local spot)
- Kashiya Yokocho (Candy Alley)
- Kurazukuri Zone (Historic Warehouse District strolling & guided commentary)
- 3:00 PM — Tour Ends in the Kurazukuri Zone
- After the guided stroll and commentary in the Kurazukuri Zone, the tour officially concludes here at 3:00 PM.
- Guests are invited to spend the rest of their afternoon enjoying leisurely strolling, shopping, and cafes at their own pace in the historic district. (Directions and options for returning to Kawagoe Station or Hon-Kawagoe Station will be provided prior to dismissal.)
Lunch Options
We tailor the lunch stop to your preference:
- Standard Plan: Local specialties and delicious regional meals under 2,000 JPY per person.
- Special Unagi (Eel) Plan: Advance reservation is required if you wish to try Kawagoe’s renowned grilled eel (approx. 5,000 JPY per person). Please let us know upon booking.
Guests are not required to cover the guide’s lunch.
Important Notes
- The total walking distance is approximately 8 km (5 miles). Please wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing.
- Depending on your energy level or weather conditions, we can take local city buses for part of the route (bus fares paid individually on-site).
