Tokyo
Day trip to Kawagoe: travel back in time to "Little Edo"
Day Trips & Local Escapes • 6 hours
4.9
(10)
Day trip to Kawagoe: travel back in time to "Little Edo"
Take a trip to 18th-century Japan and explore the perfectly preserved town's warehouses, shops, shrines, and tea rooms on a day trip from Tokyo
What makes this experience special
Key highlights
- Immerse yourself in Japan’s rich Edo-era history on a day trip to Kawagoe.
- Shop for the most authentic souvenirs and crafts in the country among the town’s quaint streets.
- Follow your host off the beaten track and discover hidden gems and local secrets.
- Visit the area’s most famous sites like Toki no Kane Tower and Hikawa Shrine.
- Put on a brave face and sample local treats like boiled eel or sweet potato beer.
- Learn about Japan’s Edo period history from your host, and discover why Kawagoe is so important to it.
What to know before you go
Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.
6 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested
What’s included
Private and personalized itinerary
6 hours with a host
Walking experience (other transport can be arranged at an additional cost)
What’s not included
Food and drink
Tickets to any attractions
Transportation costs - if you are not a JR pass holder please get in touch so we can adjust your quote
Gratuities (optional)
Meeting point
Shinjuku Tourist Information Center, located close to JR Shinjuku Station South East Exit.Cancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experienceWhat to bring
- We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and carrying a light bag for your essentials.
- Public transport may be used during the experience - please bring a travel card or small amount of cash for fares.
How your day could unfold
A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you mostWhat you’ll do
You’ll catch a train to Kawagoe, a living remnant of Japan’s Edo era, and discover its relics, museums, and unique culture with an insightful host. Together, you could explore Kita-in Temple, where you’ll find a room that once formed part of Tokyo’s iconic Edo Castle, or you could witness the power of the annual Kawagoe Festival when locals take to the streets on extravagant floats to celebrate the arrival of summer.
If you’re not lucky enough to see it live, you can get a taste at the unique Festival Museum! Down in Penny Candy Lane, you might discover a world of sweet delights in a rustic setting, or you could wander along Kurazukuri Street, where traditional charcoal-tiled buildings offer a unique glimpse into the past.
1. Select a date
2. Select start time
3. Tailor your experience
Answer a few quick questions to help your host craft the perfect day tailored to you.
1. What’s your preferred hosting style?
2. How would you like the pace of your day?
3. What’s your walking comfort level?
4. Are you celebrating something special?
Real Stories, Real Connections
See our hosts and guests creating memories
Kanpai from the coziest izakaya
A peaceful moment at Kanda Shrine
Flying high for Children's Day!
New friendships over late-night ramen
Shared plates, shared smiles
Takeshita Street, where quirky fashion, sweet treats, and pop culture collide
History meets gold at Ueno Toshogu Shrine
From navigating to sharing hidden stops
Press start on an Akihabara adventure!
Night out, Tokyo-style
Neon Nights, New Friends
Layover Magic at Tokyo Station
Quirky Café Moments
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What travelers think of this experience
Julie
Nov 2024
Our guide Mari was great and we had a wonderful time exploring Kawagoe. It was a relaxing walk around the streets and we really enjoyed all the food we tried as well.
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Lorenz
Oct 2024
Good balanced day with museums and historical buildings as well as sightseeing.
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Nancy
Jun 2024
I totally enjoyed my day with Lauren. Genuine, authentic, accommodating and kind.
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Nancy
Jun 2024
She was on time, patient and took the time to ensure I was getting what I expected from the experience.
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Rich
May 2024
We enjoyed our day with Kenji, especially learning about shintoism and sushi. Having a guide made us feel comfortable taking the train outside of Tokyo. We also appreciated the time he took taking photos of the two of us.
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Khay
Dec 2023
Our guide was professional and friendly and very knowledgeable about local culture. We feel that the questionnaire matched us with a tour guide that really catered to our interests. Would highly recommend others to try these private tours.
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