Kita-in Temple Kawagoe
Step back in time in Kawagoe, a charming town preserving Edo-period architecture and home to Kita-in Temple's unique Rakan statues.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Kita-in Temple Kawagoe
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in Kawagoe, a charming town preserving Edo-period architecture and home to Kita-in Temple's unique Rakan statues.
"Kawagoe offers a delightful escape into old Japan with its preserved streets and fascinating temple."
👟 Comfortable walking shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the historical streets and temple grounds.
⏰ Beat the crowds
Arrive early on weekdays for a more serene experience, especially on Kurazukuri Street.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 500 Rakan Statues
Kita-in Temple
Marvel at over 500 unique stone statues, each depicting a disciple of Buddha with distinct expressions.
Kurazukuri Street
Historical District
Stroll down this charming street lined with traditional Edo-period warehouses, offering a nostalgic atmosphere.
Toki no Kane Bell Tower
Kurazukuri Street
This iconic bell tower has chimed the hours for centuries, a symbol of Kawagoe's rich history.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Kawagoe
Embrace the Edo Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable walking shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the historical streets and temple grounds.
⏰ Beat the crowds
Arrive early on weekdays for a more serene experience, especially on Kurazukuri Street.
Best Day Trip From Tokyo
🍠 Taste local sweets
Don't miss Kawagoe's specialty: sweet potatoes! Try them in various forms like ice cream or baked.
📸 Capture the Edo vibe
The traditional architecture is perfect for photography, especially during golden hour.
First Trip to Japan! Please Rate my 1 Week Itinerary
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable walking shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the historical streets and temple grounds.
⏰ Beat the crowds
Arrive early on weekdays for a more serene experience, especially on Kurazukuri Street.
🍠 Taste local sweets
Don't miss Kawagoe's specialty: sweet potatoes! Try them in various forms like ice cream or baked.
📸 Capture the Edo vibe
The traditional architecture is perfect for photography, especially during golden hour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise Kawagoe for its charming Edo-period atmosphere and the unique experience of Kita-in Temple's 500 Rakan statues. The town is considered a pleasant and walkable day trip from Tokyo, offering a glimpse into historical Japan. However, some find the main street can become overly crowded, detracting from the experience.
"Kita-in Temple is a significant Buddhist temple. It is a major historical and cultural landmark, with a fascinating history that ties it directly to the powerful Tokugawa shogunate. But Kita-in is not just a historical site; it's also a vibrant center of local life.
Kita-in Temple is easily accessible and a must-visit for anyone exploring Kawagoe, providing a tangible link to the country's feudal past and a serene escape from the bustling city."
Cri Bar
"A beautiful shrine in the city of Kawagoe. A good place to visit, with different attractions near it, like the 500+ stone statues of the Rakan, each depicting a different personality"
cindy chong-evans
"Kita-in Temple was founded in 830. After 1612, the temple became more prosperous because of the deep trust of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the master of Jigen, Tenkai. In 1638, a fire broke out and almost all the buildings of Kita-in Temple were burned down. Later, Tokugawa Iemitsu moved the guest halls in Edo Castle, the "Birthplace of Tokugawa Iemitsu" and the "Kasuga Tsubone Makeup House", and they were successfully rebuilt here. The entire Kita-in Temple area has been designated as an important cultural property. There are more than 500 arhats in the temple. These "five hundred arhats" are one of the three great arhats in Japan. They have vivid expressions and unique features. It is one of the famous tourist attractions in Kawagoe."
Antony Li
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kita-in Temple is easily accessible from Tokyo. Take the Tobu Tojo Line from Ikebukuro Station to Kawagoe Station (approx. 30-40 minutes). From Kawagoe Station, it's a pleasant 20-minute walk or a short bus ride to the temple.
Yes, Kawagoe is a highly recommended day trip from Tokyo, offering a taste of Edo-era Japan. It's known for its historical streets and temples, making it a popular choice for those seeking a break from the bustling city. +1
Kawagoe is very walkable, especially the historical district. You can easily explore Kurazukuri Street and Kita-in Temple on foot. Buses are also available for longer distances.
It takes approximately 40-50 minutes to reach Kawagoe from Shinjuku by train, making it a convenient option for a day excursion.
Yes, you can take direct trains on the Tobu Tojo Line from Ikebukuro Station to Kawagoe Station. Some JR lines also connect to Kawagoe, though they might involve transfers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Kita-in Temple is typically open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially during holidays.
Yes, there is a small entrance fee to access the main temple grounds and see the 500 Rakan statues. The fee is usually around a few hundred yen.
Currently, tickets for Kita-in Temple are typically purchased on-site upon arrival. It's advisable to have cash on hand, though some vendors might accept cards.
Kita-in Temple may host special events or have seasonal illuminations. Checking their local event calendars or social media can provide information on upcoming activities.
To avoid the largest crowds, aim to visit Kita-in Temple on a weekday morning, shortly after it opens. Weekends and public holidays tend to be busier.
📸 📸 Photography
Kurazukuri Street with its traditional buildings, the Toki no Kane bell tower, and the serene gardens of Kita-in Temple are prime photography locations. The 500 Rakan statues also offer unique photo opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed in the outdoor areas of Kita-in Temple, including the gardens and the Rakan statues. However, photography inside the main temple buildings may be restricted. Always look for signage.
The 'golden hours' just after sunrise and before sunset offer beautiful, soft light for photography in Kawagoe. Midday can be harsh, but the shaded streets offer some relief.
The sheer number and variety of expressions on the 500 Rakan statues make them a standout photographic subject. The temple's architecture and surrounding gardens also provide picturesque scenes.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both street scenes and temple details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the Kurazukuri Street architecture. Don't forget a portable charger for your phone!
🍽️ 🍠 Food & Dining
Kawagoe is renowned for its sweet potatoes (imo). You'll find them in various delicious forms, including baked sweet potatoes, sweet potato ice cream, and sweet potato snacks.
Numerous shops along Kurazukuri Street and near Kawagoe Station offer sweet potato delights. Look for stalls selling baked sweet potatoes or ice cream parlors.
Yes, Kawagoe offers a range of dining options, from casual eateries serving local specialties to more formal restaurants. You can find udon, soba, and other Japanese cuisine.
While traditional Japanese cuisine can be challenging for strict vegans, many restaurants offer vegetable-based dishes. It's best to inquire about ingredients when ordering. Sweet potato dishes are often naturally vegan.
Coedo Brewery is a popular craft beer brewery located in Kawagoe, known for its unique and flavorful beers. It's a great spot to relax and enjoy a local brew after exploring the town.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kita-in Temple, with its 500 Rakan statues, can be a fascinating and slightly quirky adventure for children, sparking their imagination with the different expressions. The temple grounds also offer space to wander. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds and make the experience more comfortable for younger ones.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To save money on food, focus on local sweet potato snacks which are delicious and affordable. Pack your own water bottle and snacks to further reduce costs. The train fare from Tokyo is also relatively inexpensive, making it an accessible option for budget-conscious travelers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring Charm of Kita-in Temple
Beyond the Rakan statues, the temple grounds offer a peaceful retreat with beautiful gardens. Visitors often find a sense of tranquility here, a stark contrast to the bustling shopping streets nearby. The temple's architecture itself is also noteworthy, showcasing traditional Japanese temple design. It's a place where history, art, and spirituality converge, offering a profound experience for those who take the time to explore its nooks and crannies.
Many travelers recommend dedicating ample time to Kita-in Temple, as its serene beauty and the sheer number of unique Rakan statues can be quite absorbing. It's a highlight that many agree shouldn't be missed when visiting Kawagoe, providing a deeper cultural insight than just the commercial streets.
Exploring Kawagoe's Edo-Period Architecture
The Toki no Kane (Bell of Time) is a central landmark on Kurazukuri Street. This iconic bell tower has chimed the hours for centuries, serving as a historical marker and a symbol of Kawagoe. The street itself is lined with shops selling local crafts, snacks, and souvenirs, making it a vibrant place to explore. While some find it can get crowded, especially on weekends, the architectural beauty remains undeniable.
Beyond the main street, Kawagoe offers other historical pockets and temples that contribute to its Edo charm. The town's layout and preserved buildings provide a tangible connection to Japan's past, making it a valuable destination for history buffs and anyone interested in experiencing traditional Japanese townscapes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit