A Half-Day Trip to Kawagoe: A Glimpse into Old Japan

If you’re looking to experience the charm of traditional Japan without venturing too far from Tokyo, Kawagoe is the perfect destination. Often referred to as “Little Edo” for its well-preserved Edo-period architecture, Kawagoe is also affectionately called “Little Tokyo” due to its proximity to the capital and its seamless blend of the old and new. A short train ride from the bustling metropolis, this small town in Saitama Prefecture feels like a time capsule, preserving the essence of Japan’s Edo period through its historic streets, architecture, and culinary traditions.

We arrived in Kawagoe early in the morning, just as the city was beginning to wake up. The streets were nearly empty—only the soft sound of shop shutters being rolled open and the occasional bicycle passing us by. It felt peaceful, almost as if we had the entire town to ourselves, even if just for a little while. The crisp morning air and the promise of a beautiful day ahead led us to start our adventure with something I had both eagerly awaited and felt a bit nervous about: the kimono experience.

The rental shop was cosy and welcoming. I was greeted by a lovely lady who guided me through the process. Thanks to DeepL Translator, we were able to have a short conversation, and she shared a bit about her life. For her, working with kimonos wasn’t just a job—it was a passion. With a shy smile, she confessed that, like many people in Japan, she works long hours, but most of her earnings go toward her love of kimonos. She told me she owns more than 30 of them, and each is cherished like a piece of art. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and I felt deeply inspired by her dedication.

Choosing my kimono was an adventure in itself. There were so many beautiful options and I could choose just one! I eventually chose a dark one adorned with delicate floral patterns. She smiled approvingly at my selection and then began the intricate process of dressing me. A kimono is more than just clothing; it’s a work of art. From the design and layers of fabric to the precise way it is worn, every detail reflects a deep cultural tradition. I was fascinated to learn that kimonos are designed to create a uniform silhouette, eliminating individual body shapes. It’s not about emphasising the person wearing it, but about showcasing the beauty of the kimono itself. She even styled my hair to match the elegance of the look. Her attention to detail made the experience even more special.

Once fully dressed, we stepped out into the quiet morning streets of Kawagoe. At first, I felt a little self-conscious. Wearing a kimono changes the way you carry yourself. My steps became slower and more deliberate as if the kimono demanded a certain grace and reverence. The stillness of the town amplified this feeling—as though I were walking through a piece of history.

As the morning unfolded, more people began to appear, heading to work or opening their shops. Some glanced in our direction, and I braced myself for what I feared might be judgmental stares. But instead, I heard soft whispers of kawaii and utsukushii (cute and beautiful). Thanks to Duolingo, I understood those kind words—and they shifted something in me. I no longer felt out of place. Instead, I felt a sense of responsibility to wear the kimono with respect and honour the culture it represents.

Wearing a kimono wasn’t just about dressing up—it was about stepping into a tradition that connected me, even if only briefly, to the cultural soul of Japan.

It also changed the way I moved through the town. Walking through Kawagoe in a kimono felt almost ceremonial, like entering someone’s home or a sacred place—even if I was simply visiting a tea shop or stepping into a store. The grace and restraint required made me appreciate its beauty even more. It heightened all the small details around me—the intricate wooden façades of the kura (traditional warehouses), the smell of roasted sweet potatoes, the soft ringing of bells from nearby temples. Even mundane moments, like stopping to take a photo or browsing a souvenir, felt elevated.

This experience left me with a deep respect for the craftsmanship and cultural significance of the kimono. It’s not just an outfit—it’s a symbol of tradition, artistry, and a way of life unlike anything else I’ve known. Wearing one felt like a privilege. I left not only with beautiful photos, but also with a deeper understanding of Japanese culture.

After wandering through the quiet streets, we made our way to Candy Street (Kashiya Yokocho) as the town began to come to life. Kawagoe is famous for its sweet potatoes, and this street is where the indulgence begins. I managed to resist the sweet potato chips—but not the creamy sweet potato ice cream, which was delicious. They even had sweet potato coffee and sweet potato beer brewed by the local Coedo Brewery. I didn’t try the beer this time, but I mentally added it to my list for the future. The cheerful vendors and growing buzz made the street feel lively, yet it retained its nostalgic charm.

Next, we wandered down Kurazukuri Street, where Edo-period warehouse buildings stood with quiet dignity. The town’s most iconic landmark, Toki-no-Kane (The Bell of Time), rose above us, chiming at the perfect moment as we approached. Its deep, resonant sound felt like a call to pause and reflect—a reminder of Kawagoe’s timeless spirit.

Later, we visited Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, a peaceful sanctuary dedicated to the god of matchmaking. Serene atmosphere, the shrine offered a calm contrast to the town’s livelier areas. I sat quietly for a few moments, appreciating the harmony between tradition and nature that defines Kawagoe.

Returning to Tokyo, I felt like I had been on a journey of more than a day. Kawagoe - "Little Edo", "Little Tokyo" - left me with moments of silence, beauty and connection to culture.

Walking its streets in a kimono, I will always remember the sweet potato taste and the whiff of old Japan. It was not just a destination; it was another invitation to get in touch with Japan's soul.

If this story inspired you, I invite you to explore more on my blog—where you’ll find stories from other Japanese cities like Osaka, Koyasan, Miyajima Island and Hiroshima. , Nara. Kyoto., Kanazawa., Tokyo. or Kawaguchiko., as well as from other countries that left a lasting impression on me. And if you’re dreaming of your journey to Kawagoe or any other destination, I’d be happy to help design a personal travel plan for you. Just reach out—your adventure could begin today.