Kurazukuri no Machinami / Warehouse District

It poured heavily that afternoon and I almost gave up the idea of going but glad I did not. Totally different sight from all the tall buildings in Tokyo. It transports you to a time when life is much simpler. It is a great day trip idea if you are staying in Tokyo

🟫 Kawagoe (川越市, Kawagoe-shi) is a city in Saitama Prefecture, Japan. It is a famous ancient conserved Edo town. 🟨Much of the old streets, retro lamp posts and vintage warehouse buildings have all been preserved. 🟧Kawagoe is also famous for its sweet potatoes, and the local "Candy Street" that sells such treats as sweet potato chips, sweet potato ice cream, sweet potato coffee, and even sweet potato beer, brewed at the local Coedo Brewery. ✳️ Some of its vintage streets and alleys preserve the old castle town atmosphere of the Edo period (17th to 19th centuries). 🩷 My husband and I had a wonderful time walking around Kawagoe. It felt like we were being transported back hundreds of years ago. 💙 I urge anyone who wants to experience what the Edo era was like to come to Kawagoe. It is such a beautiful and well preserved ancient town. ✅️✴️ Tokyo ---> Kawagoe / is only about 1 and a half hours. You can spent a day here at Kawagoe to explore the lovely Edo Town

A 1 hour train ride away from chaotic Tokyo. For those able to walk, I recommend walking here from Kawagoe Station (30-40min) slowly. You can enjoy the shopping street or get some good food along that before arriving at the historic Mini Edo where food is pricier and not as good. This area is simply stunning with touristy and non touristy shops. Even their post office is in the old school setup.

Recommended place to hang one day. Tons of stores and restaurants in old Edo style buildings. Some of the buildings have original parts while some are rebuilt in the same style. Very cool. We ate at a tonkotsu restaurant, which was delicious. I saw at least one good looking sushi restaurant and a few unagidon places. There was a German style sausage place run by a Japanese family that was fantastic. There is a Studio Ghibli store with many cute items. Could be crowded on a holiday such as spring equinox or one of their larger matsuri, but in general isn't crazy crowded like the city. It's out in Kawagoe in Saitama prefecture, about a 30 min Express train + 10 min bus ride.

More or less hidden gem. Delicious, mainly sweet potato themed street food in a super chill atmosphere with all of the old Edo houses. Going there takes less than an hour and is fully covered by the JR pass. Definitely worth checking out if you want to escape the crowds of Tokyo for a little day trip.