ABOUT
About this spot
The Kawagoe Castle Honmaru Palace is an iconic historic spot in Kawagoe, beloved as "Little Edo." Of the once enormous castle, the entrance section, the great hall, and the senior retainers' waiting room remain today, making this a very valuable place where you can closely see the remains of palace architecture, the only such site in eastern Japan. Stepping inside, you can feel the dignity of Edo-period samurai society in the high-set beams and the long, quiet tatami corridors. The veranda overlooking the garden and the exhibits in the "Karo Tsumesho" (senior retainers' waiting room), where the retainers held meetings, are so realistic that you can almost hear the breath of the time. Located in a calm area slightly away from the kurazukuri townscape, it is also perfect as a stop during a stroll. It is recommended not only for history lovers but also for solo travelers who want to savor Japanese architectural beauty in a quiet space, and for family trips that double as history lessons for children. With a reasonable admission fee, it is the perfect grown-up weekend excursion to time-travel to the Edo period with ease.
Last updated March 29, 2026