Just 30 Minutes from Tokyo: Step into Edo Nostalgia in Kawagoe

A town I fell in love with — My Top 7 experiences in a hidden gem few foreign travelers know (but should!)

First of all, thank you so much for your patience. I haven’t posted in a while, and I wanted to say sorry for the silence. I’m thrilled to finally share that I passed my EU medical licensing exam yesterday — I’m officially a medical doctor now!

As my first post after the break, I’d love to take you somewhere special — a place I visited about three weeks ago and completely fell in love with: Kawagoe (川越).

I’ll be sharing my personal Top 7 favorite spots from this charming town, so I hope you’ll enjoy!

Just 30 minutes from Tokyo, it’s often called “Little Edo” (Koedo 小江戸) thanks to its charming Edo-period streets, traditional kura-style warehouses, and nostalgic atmosphere. Despite how close it is to Tokyo, I hardly saw any foreign tourists — it felt like a hidden local treasure. If you’re craving a quick escape that feels like stepping back in time (without the crowds), Kawagoe might be just what you’re looking for.

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🌍 Who Will Love Kawagoe?

• Travelers tired of Tokyo crowds but not wanting to go too far

• History lovers who want to experience Edo-period Japan

• Foodies who love Japanese street snacks and traditional sweets

• Anyone who want classic shots of wooden buildings, kimono, and nostalgic streets

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🚃 How to Get to Kawagoe

The easiest way is from Ikebukuro Station:

• Tobu Tojo Line: Just 30 minutes by express train to Kawagoe Station (approx. ¥400)

• You can also reach it via JR or Seibu lines, depending on where you're starting from

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🇯🇵 What is Koedo (Little Edo)?

"Koedo" means Little Edo, a nickname for Kawagoe because of its preserved streetscape from the Edo period (1603–1868). During that time, Kawagoe was a key merchant town that supported Edo (now Tokyo). The clay-walled warehouse buildings ("kura-zukuri") are unique to the city and are now used as shops, cafes, and museums.

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✨ My Top 7 Experiences in Kawagoe — Ranked!

I genuinely fell in love with this town, and narrowing down my favorites was hard! Here are my personal highlights, counting down from #7 to #1. (The #1 spot was so good, I’m craving it again just writing about it!)

7th place: Fugashi

Fluffy, sweet brown sugar snacks that spark childhood memories for many Japanese. You’ll find them throughout Kawagoe, but the best place is Kashiya Yokocho, a charming alley packed with retro candy shops. You might be surprised by how big they are!

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6th place: Traditional Japanese Umbrella Shop

We stumbled into this shop when my father suddenly said he wanted a proper umbrella — and I’m so glad he did! The shop carries handmade wagasa (Japanese umbrellas) with stunning traditional designs, including ones featuring famous works of Japanese art. Living overseas, I’ve come to appreciate just how special these umbrellas are — I think it’s a great chance to bring one home.

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5th place: Old Bank Museum

This beautifully preserved 1918 building once housed the 85th National Bank and is now a museum showcasing Kawagoe’s Meiji–Taisho era economic history. The green copper dome is iconic, and inside you can peek into the original vault and learn about early 20th-century banking. It’s open only during limited hours (usually 10:00–16:00), so plan ahead — and don’t miss the view from the top. It was breathtaking!

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4th place: Kawagoe Kumano Shrine (川越熊野神社) – With Foot Reflexology Path

This temple has something unique: a barefoot stone reflexology path that stimulates pressure points in your feet. Yes, it hurts — but in a strangely satisfying way. After that mini workout, stroll through the peaceful gardens and historic buildings. I tried it too… painfully refreshing!

And now, the top 3!✨

🥉 Sake Tasting at 小江戸蔵里 (Koedo Kurari, Showagura Building)

For just 500 yen (3.5 USD), you can sample a variety of local sake (three types of sake with 500 yen!) Each type comes with tasting notes so you know what you’re trying — and if you find a favorite, you can buy a bottle at the shop. I thought it was such a fun (and budget-friendly) way to experience different sake styles in one place.

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🥈 Kawagoe Bakery Rakuraku(楽々)

The bread here blew me away! Their sweet potato danish was my favorite, it was filled with rich, local sweet potato — an absolute must-try.

Bonus: they also have egg-free breads! One of my family members is allergic to eggs and usually can’t eat bread, but could here. It was such a happy surprise.

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🥇 Imo Koi (いも恋)

My #1 favorite — and I still think about it! Imo Koi is a steamed mochi dumpling filled with sweet potato and red bean paste. They steam them fresh right in front of you, so it’s best to eat one on the spot while it’s warm and soft. You can take some home too, but nothing beats eating it there. This is a must-try — your Kawagoe trip isn’t complete without it!

The inside is like this!

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So, which one do you want to try the most? Did anything make you think, “I need to go there”?

I was honestly amazed a place this full of charm is just 30 minutes from Tokyo. If you’re considering a visit, scroll down for extra tips and links — all based on my actual trip, so everything’s practical and up to date.

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And just a heads-up — tomorrow, I’ll be sending out a special post for paid subscribers with my recommended walking route around Kawagoe and some tips!✨ If you want a smooth, snack-filled day trip, don’t miss it!

(Paid subscribers also get a free 30-minute consultation — perfect if you’re planning a visit soon!)

P.S. I’ll be writing about another nearby hidden gem soon— Tsukubayama (筑波山), a gorgeous mountain hike with panoramic views! Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss it!