2025 Kawaguchi Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in October)

📍 We traveled by renting a car, driving from Tokyo. It takes about 1.5 hours to get to Fuji. Highly recommended, it's definitely worth it. The photo was taken in late March. ✨ Anyone coming to Fuji must not miss visiting this lake. We were very lucky to come in late March and still see snow. The weather in 2025 is very unpredictable. 🪿 Lake Yamanaka's signature is the geese. If you come, you will definitely see them. The atmosphere is great, and the roadside views are beautiful. We are not sure about public transportation, but we recommend renting a car. It's really worth it. For those planning a trip, don't forget to pin this spot. We guarantee you won't be disappointed.

Kawaguchi: A Hidden Gem Near Tokyo In Japan, Kawaguchi City, located next to Tokyo, is like a dazzling pearl hidden by the bustling city, exuding a unique charm, waiting for travelers to unveil its mysterious veil. Stepping into Kawaguchi City, the first thing that greets you is the strong historical atmosphere. On Nikko Street, the old wooden buildings are scattered, as if pulling time back to the Edo period. These buildings retain the traditional Japanese style, with simple tiled roofs and carved wooden doors and windows, every detail shows the precipitation of time. Walking among them, the stone road under your feet makes a crisp sound, and the shops on the roadside sell traditional handicrafts, exquisite washi paper, and elegant tea sets, each of which carries the essence of traditional Japanese culture. Shakujouji Temple is a treasure of Kawaguchi City's history and culture. This thousand-year-old temple is solemn and solemn, with ancient trees towering in the temple, and the sunlight shining through the gaps in the leaves, forming golden spots of light. In the Mahavira Hall, the Buddha statue is compassionate and peaceful, surrounded by the wishes of believers. On major festivals, the temple will hold grand ceremonies, and monks in traditional costumes chant scriptures and pray for blessings. The solemn sense of ritual makes people feel awe, and also allows people to appreciate the profound heritage of Japanese religious culture. When night falls, Kawaguchi City transforms into a vibrant modern city. The commercial streets around Kawaguchi Station are brightly lit and neon lights flicker. In various restaurants, the aroma of food is overwhelming, tender and juicy skewers, exquisite sushi, and rich ramen, every bite is the ultimate temptation to the taste buds. Fashionable clothing stores and a dazzling array of grocery stores attract people to stop and choose. In the izakaya, there is constant laughter and laughter, and people relax and enjoy a moment of leisure in their busy lives. The transportation in Kawaguchi City is very convenient, closely connected with Tokyo, and you can easily travel back and forth by train. In Kawaguchi City, you can explore the traces of history during the day and feel the charm of tradition; at night, you can integrate into the lively urban life and experience the vitality of modernity. This is the perfect fusion of tradition and modernity, and a different journey is waiting for you to start.

This building is not usually open to the public, but is used as an office. I found it on Otonami and went there! In addition to the architectural tour, I drank kombucha and did yoga in the beautiful Japanese-style building! 【Points to enjoy☝️】 ・Lots of stained glass! I love the stained glass on the door! ---------------------------------------------------- ◆Building🏠 Oizumi Factory 5-4-1 Ryoke, Kawaguchi City, Saitama Prefecture 332-0004 ◆Access🚶 6 minutes by bus from Kawaguchi Station ◆Price💰 6,000 yen ◆Reservations None ◆Photos📷 OK ---------------------------------------------------- Retro Walk | Introducing a retro experience! ↓Recommended for these people! - I like retro - I want to know where I can wear a kimono👘 - I want to spend my weekends and travels relaxing -------------------------------------------------- [Retro Stroll's Thoughts🕰️] Retro Stroll was started with the desire to make people feel that "old" is "beautiful" and stop to look at it. There are many wonderful historic buildings in Japan, but they are difficult to maintain and are often demolished. Not only buildings, but also traditional Japanese things and techniques. I hope that this will be an opportunity for as many people as possible to look at old things again before they disappear from Japan. If you find a place that catches your eye, please take a retro stroll and take a break! ---------------------------------------------------- #TravelingWithMe

🏠 Former Tanaka Residence 📍 1-7-2 Suehiro, Kawaguchi, Saitama 332-0006 Access: 7 minutes on foot from Kawaguchi Motogo Station Admission Fee: 210 yen Reservation: Not required Time required: 60 minutes 📷: ok -------------------------------------------------- It's a large mansion, and I liked every angle, so it was hard to choose a photo. It's a pretty hidden spot, so I had it all to myself. It's been a long time since I've been so satisfied with the quality! To be honest, I don't want to tell anyone, but I want this goodness to spread! You can also get to the former Furukawa Gardens, designed by the famous British architect, Conder, by a single train ride, so I recommend it! #stainedglass #retrocityscape #retroarchitecture #architecture #emotional #retro #historicalsites #triptotourismtotourism #tokyotourism #tokyotrip #oji #domestictrip #trip_outdoor

#Saitama sightseeing #Kawaguchi Auto Race Track #Arrived casually #SMAP #Mori-kun #It was raining #Didn't go inside #Surprised there's a night game #Soon #Tanabata #Festival #Apparently there is one A Japanese person living overseas who came to Japan for the first time in 7 years casually arrived at Kawaguchi Auto Race Track I didn't go inside, but I walked around the outside of the track to my destination It was a surprisingly fun place. If it hadn't been raining, I'm sure I would have enjoyed it even more☺️ There was a colorful picture of a motorcycle painted on the fenced area. (I only took a video😅)

First snow of the season in Saitama prefecture

Totsuka-Ago in Kawaguchi City is a town of trees. There are really a lot of gardeners. We visited Kobayashi Momiji-en, which specializes in maples and maples, which are especially popular during the autumn foliage season. You can just come in to look, so you can enjoy autumn leaves without paying an admission fee. It was a late season when the dead leaves were noticeable, but the car park and bicycle parking area were full. The garden sometimes sells sweet sake. There are various varieties of maples and maples, some of which have labels indicating the variety. If you look closely, you will see that the shape of the leaves has different characteristics, so you can enjoy autumn leaves in a slightly different way than in a park or garden. It's a short walk from Totsuka-Ago Station on the Saitama Stadium Line (about 20 minutes) #trip2211 #autumnfoliage

I went to Kozen-in Temple in Angyo, Kawaguchi City to see the autumn leaves. This place has long been known as a town of plants, and not only the grounds of plant growers, but also ordinary homes all have beautiful gardens. There were many autumn leaves in the grounds of Kozen-in Temple, which was beautiful. Benzaiten is enshrined here, and instead of guardian lion dogs, there are guardian snakes. They are quite popular for their cute faces. #trip2211 #autumnleaves #guardian snakes #Benzaiten

When you think of Ryoke in Kawaguchi City, you might imagine only factories and warehouses, but suddenly, you'll find a relaxing spot filled with greenery. It's a place that only those in the know will know about, and seems to be popular with locals and cyclists. The facility is run by the Oizumi Factory, and includes a cafe, a kombucha brewery, the Oizumi family's old Western-style house and gardens, and more. A farmers' market is also held regularly. #kawaguchi #oks #farmersmarket #trip2211

Highly recommended for families with children❤️ You can stay there all day. It's not hot, it's safe, and you don't have to worry if you leave the adults behind. You can experience a lot of different things, so your children will be delighted. #EastJapan#GoingOutWithChildren #SupportTourism #Kawaguchi

Kawaguchi Highway Oasis opened in April 2022. It is a rest area on the Shuto Expressway, but you can also visit on regular roads. If you are walking, Araijuku Station is the nearest station. It was built adjacent to the original natural park, Iina Park, so in addition to taking a break during your trip, you can also enjoy some light outdoor activities. The shop sells local agricultural products and famous bonsai trees. #HighwayOasis #ShutoExpressway #Kawaguchi

Access: 10 minutes on foot from the east exit of Kawaguchi Station on the JR Keihin Tohoku Line Tourist Spot: Kawaguchi Shrine A rather large, historic local shrine. It is a relaxing shrine surrounded by nature, standing alone among a group of apartment buildings. It is a place of relaxation for locals to take a break and relax while out for a walk.

#tripaway Kawaguchiko in Japan is really a wonderful destination! the best city to admire the Mount Fuji! A great many smelting and die-casting foundries were set up and the city gained a reputation for small scale steel and precision instrument production, it was apparently the place in Japan for the production of athletic shot-puts. . The station area has been extensively redeveloped with a great many new shops and shopping centers opening up. These two developments have changed the face of Kawaguchi from an aging and declining industrial town into a thriving commuter town with an expanding number of young families. #japan #asia #mountfuji #tripaway

📍Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, Kawaguchi, Japan Saw sakura for the first time in Japan was my finally checked bucket list. I was so happy and grateful to be there. I came here around March. It was so beautiful and it was just pink (my favorite color) everywhere🌸

#mytraveldiary

📍 Warabi City to Kawaguchi City: A Walk of Food and Small Discoveries ☕ 1. Antenna Books Cafe (Warabi City) A short walk from the west exit of Warabi Station. Antenna Books Cafe, with shelves filled with used and new books, offers a cozy space with the warmth of wood and quiet background music. While enjoying the aroma of coffee, I flipped through books by local authors and travel photo books. The light streaming in through the large windows made reading time even more special. I slowly savored a cafe latte and seasonal sweets here, then planned my walk for the day. ⸻ 🌳 2. Warabi City Park Leaving the cafe and passing through a residential area, I came across a lush park. Children play energetically on the lawn, and locals spend a peaceful afternoon on the benches. Ducks swim in the small pond, and seasonal flower beds add a touch of color. If you get tired of walking, take a break on a bench in the shade. The park's fresh air is a great way to reset after exploring the city. ⸻ ⛩ 3. Nihongi Inari Daimyojin Further walking, you'll find Nihongi Inari Daimyojin, quietly nestled on the corner of a residential area. Passing through the torii gate, you'll be greeted by a vermilion shrine building and a small fox statue. Familiarly worshipped by locals as a deity for business prosperity and household safety, the refreshing sound of bells rings after prayers. Though the shrine grounds are small, the pure air creates a moment of rejuvenation. ⸻ 🍢 4. Sichuan Grilled Skewers & Steamed Dumplings in Front of Kawaguchi Station Take the train from Warabi to Kawaguchi and head to the bustling shopping district in front of the station. Attracted by the aroma of spices, I entered a Sichuan restaurant and ordered: • Juicy and spicy lamb skewers (with a perfect aroma of cumin and chili peppers) • Fluffy and slightly sweet steamed dumplings Paired with beer, the contrast of spiciness and sweetness was addictive. Studying the piping hot skewers at an outdoor table while watching the station at sunset was a truly special experience. ⸻ 🚶♀️ At the end of the walk Starting with a book and coffee, this small town stroll was filled with greenery, history, and food. Warabi and Kawaguchi are mysterious areas where local and international flavors coexist despite being close to the city center. It was a warm day that made me think, "I'll visit again in a different season." ⸻ 📌 Recommended Route Antenna Books Cafe → Warabi City Park → Nihongi Inari Daimyojin Shrine → Kawaguchi Station Sichuan Restaurant #SummerVacation #TokyoTrip #PaintingTrip #DomesticTravelGuide #MyTravelPlan #SummerVacationTrip #DomesticSeasonalPlaces #DomesticTravelGuide #DomesticTravel #CommentCorner #AbsolutelyFreeTrip #SummerCampaign

Tucked away in a quiet residential area of Hatogaya, Saitama, mellow cafe is a beloved local favorite thanks to its homey atmosphere. As the name "mellow" suggests, the cafe offers a calm, cozy space perfect for a relaxing break. ✨️ The interior is filled with warm wooden decor and soft lighting, offering a relaxing atmosphere at small tables or window seats. Whether you're dining alone or with friends, the cafe's focus is on creating a relaxing atmosphere. 💡 The menu features homemade cakes and baked goods that change with the seasons, colorful lunch plates, and carefully selected coffees and teas, all carefully handcrafted. Many customers visit for the sweet treats, including fluffy pancakes and parfaits made with seasonal fruits. The pancakes were as light and fluffy as clouds. ☁️ The limited-time menu featuring fresh local ingredients and vegetarian-friendly lunch options are also popular. Everything is filled with the warmth of handmade craftsmanship and consideration for your health, so anyone can enjoy it with peace of mind. 🎶 For those days when you want to experience a little happiness or find peace of mind, why not spend a relaxing, soothing moment at "mellow cafe" in Hatogaya? 📍Address: Green Peak, 1225-1-1225-1 Sato, Kawaguchi City, Saitama Prefecture, 334-0005 🕰Hours: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Saturdays 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM / Closed Sundays and Mondays) #AbsolutelyFreeTravel

Located in Kawaguchi, Saitama, Chant d'Oiseau is a popular patisserie that draws fans from far and wide. 🧁🤍 Its appeal lies in its cakes and pastries, which, while remaining faithful to the traditions of French pastry, shine with a unique sense of style and playfulness. The first thing that catches your eye are the beautiful, colorful cakes and tarts. They are particular about their ingredients, using only the finest fruits, butter, and creams. Their artistic appearances are a unique feature of Chant d'Oiseau, making them a delight to both the eye and the palate. Their handmade, rustic baked goods and gift-worthy bonbons are also very popular. Each one is meticulously crafted, with a story to be told, making them the perfect gift or a treat for yourself. As the name "Chant d'Oiseau" (meaning "birds chirp") suggests, the interior is filled with a warm and charming atmosphere, making you feel happy just by visiting. 🕊️ The staff are friendly and the cafe is known for its comfortable atmosphere. 📍Address: 1-1-26 Saiwai-cho, Kawaguchi City, Saitama Prefecture 332-0016 🕰️Hours: 10:00-19:00 #AbsolutelyFreeTravel

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip The Kawaguchiko Ropeway is a popular tourist spot located in Lake Kawaguchi, Yamanashi Prefecture. If you ride the ropeway to the top of the mountain, you can get a beautiful view of Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi. You can enjoy the scenery in every season, especially in autumn when the leaves are beautiful and in winter when you can see snow-capped Mt. Fuji. There is an observation deck at the top of the mountain, which is also a great place for taking photos and taking a walk. The Kawaguchiko Ropeway offers a wonderful experience where you can feel close to Mt. Fuji, the symbol of Japan, while relaxing in nature. #tokyo

#springitinerary As part of our Mount Fuji Itinerary, we rode a tour bus which travelled from Tokyo station. Along the way, there are several curiousity and sights like the 7-11 Mount Fuji View, similar to the Lawson Mount Fuji view. Upon arrival, we are in awe to see the famous Mount Fuji view on the crystal kawaguchi lake. We are really happy that the day was clear so that we can see the picturesque Mount Fuji!

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 🚇 Transportation 📷 Photo Spots 🍜 Local Cuisine 🏠 Accommodation 💡 Tips

#cherryblossom25 I previously mentioned Mitsuzouin in Saitama Kawaguchi, a hidden gem for cherry blossoms. At first, I thought the blossoms would only last for a week before they fell, but they were surprisingly resilient, lasting through several rain showers and still maintaining their beauty. What made this visit so special was the rainy day, when the cherry blossoms were intertwined with raindrops. It felt like the whole world was wrapped in a gentle cherry blossom snow. The raindrops falling on the petals, the petals swirling in the wind, created a unique atmosphere that was incredibly calming. 📍 Cherry Blossom Varieties at Mitsuzouin The main varieties here are Sōrō and An'gōzakura, two types that complement each other beautifully. The cherry blossom path here is absolutely worth a visit; it’s a peaceful and rejuvenating experience for any cherry blossom lover! #naturalwonders

#cherryblossom25 Tucked away in Tokyo’s quieter corners, Saifukuji Temple is where time slows down. No crowds, no selfie sticks—just the soft tap-tap of wooden prayer blocks and the earthy scent of incense curling into the air. I went for the autumn leaves but stayed for the matcha-induced zen. 😌 First surprise? The temple’s hidden bamboo grove—a mini Arashiyama without the tourists! Sunlight flickered through the stalks, and for a second, I forgot I was in Tokyo. (Cue Kill Bill soundtrack in my head.) 🎋 Funny moment: Tried copying a local bowing at the altar… and almost knocked over a donation box. Pro tip: Gracefulness is optional, but balance is key. 🙏 Food must-try: The temple’s matcha warabi mochi—jiggly, dusted with roasted soybean flour, and sobitter-sweet it’ll reset your soul. Paired with frothy matcha, it’s a vibe. ⏰ Chill Itinerary: • 8 AM: Arrive early—mist still clinging to the stone lanterns. • 8:30 AM: Meditate in the main hall (or just pretend to, like me). • 9:30 AM: Explore the bamboo path (perfect for moody pics). • 10:30 AM: Refuel with matcha sweets at the teahouse. • 11 AM: Hunt for omamori (charms)—they’ve got one for everything, even Wi-Fi blessings. 📶✨ Why go? It’s serene, quirky, and feels undiscovered. Plus, the monks here don’t side-eye photo takers (bless them). Would you come for the mochi, the bamboo, or the accidental comedy? Tag your zen-seeking bestie! 🌿 #HiddenTokyo #TempleVibes

Kyoto Geisha Street Gion During the day, there are a lot of tourists, so I visited Gion Street again with my wife at night. It’s even better at night. The street seems to have gone back in time, but I really liked the harmony of the houses, the street, and the fires. After walking for a while, I sat down in an alley to rest for a while, and a maiko (apprentice geiko) passed by. I didn’t take pictures because they said it would be prohibited. #prenataltravel #couplelivinginjapan #koreancouple #kyototravel #gionstreet #gionstreetnightview

#cherryblossom25 Tucked away in Kawagoe, Saitama, Mizo-in Temple is a thousand-year-old temple, cherished by locals as a secret cherry blossom haven. Unlike the bustling crowds of Ueno Park in Tokyo, Mizo-in offers a serene, wabi-sabi atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a quiet, reflective space amidst nature’s beauty. The temple is mainly home to Somei Yoshino cherry trees, with soft pink and white petals resembling clouds or snow. When paired with the moss-covered stone paths and vermillion temple structures, it's a dreamy setting that effortlessly feels like a scene from a Japanese drama. 📸✨ Cherry Blossom Forecast 🌸 2025 March 17 Update: The blossoms are about 60% open, and by this weekend (around March 22nd), expect the trees to be in full bloom! 🌸 Transportation Guide | 1 Hour Direct from Tokyo 🚄 Address: 3000 Komuro, Kawagoe City, Saitama Prefecture Recommended Route: Train + Bus: Take the Tobu Tojo Line from Ikebukuro Station to Kawagoe Station (East Exit). From there, transfer to the "Koeido Circular Bus" and get off at the "Mizo-in" stop. The whole journey takes about 1 hour. 🚌 This hidden gem is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a more peaceful cherry blossom experience, away from the more crowded spots, while still soaking in the beautiful traditional atmosphere. 🌸 #travel

#cherryblossom25 Catch the tail end of plum blossom season at Iina Plum Orchard and enjoy a peaceful, beautiful plum blossom view! While the best time to visit is from late February to mid-March, even if you miss most of the plum blossoms by late March, you might still catch late-blooming varieties like weeping plum blossoms in bloom! 🌸✨ Transportation Guide: Budget-friendly and Easy 🛤️ From Tokyo: Take the JR Takasaki Line to Iina Station, then transfer to a bus (about 15 minutes) to Meirin Park-mae Station, with a fare of about 300 yen. 🚆 By Car: Navigate to Iina City Plum Orchard. There’s a paid parking lot nearby (about 500 yen/day). It’s best to arrive early on weekends to grab a spot! 🚗 Highlights: Perfect for Photos and Strolling 📸🌳 Late Plum Blossoms Although most of the plum blossoms have fallen by late March, you can still find late-blooming varieties (like weeping plums) in full bloom. Combined with mossy stone paths and traditional Japanese pavilions, the scenery exudes a distinct wabi-sabi charm. 📷 Tip: Wear light-colored skirts and shoot from a low angle for a cinematic look! 🎥 Traditional Architecture The park retains the Edo-period plum orchard layout, with wooden corridors and stone lanterns adding a historic charm. Take a break at Meikō-tei and enjoy a cup of hot tea (about 300 yen), while capturing atmospheric photos. 🍵 Killing Child Picnic Area A great spot for families, the western lawn area is perfect for picnics and kite flying under the plum trees. Don’t forget to bring a mat and simple food (the park only has vending machines). 🧺🍱 Extra Tips: Best Times for Photography: Early morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft, perfect for capturing the details of the plum blossoms and traditional architecture. What to Bring: Camera, a lightweight picnic mat, and simple food, along with a bottle of hot tea to enjoy a relaxing time! 📸🧳 #travel

#cherryblossom25 Hidden in the foothills of Mt. Hiei, this 1,200-year-old Tendai Buddhist temple offers a crowd-free cherry blossom experience unlike Kyoto’s famous spots. Its "Blood Moon Cherry" —a rare variety with deep crimson buds that fade to pale pink—blooms dramatically against moss-covered stone lanterns and ancient cedar trees. 🌸 Why It’s Unique ✔ Sacred Microclimate – At 400m elevation, blooms arrive 1 week later(early April) than downtown Kyoto, extending hanami season ✔ Esoteric Atmosphere – The temple still operates as a strict training ground for monks (visitors may hear chanting) ✔ Legendary Tree– The 300-year-old "Blood Moon Cherry" is said to bloom brightest under full moons

I was so lucky able to see the beautiful and perfect cherry blossom view with Mount Fuji at Lake Kawaguchi. I can’t believe that day have blue sky and able to see the clear Mount Fuji view. Lake Kawaguchi is located in the town of Fujikawaguchiko in southern Yamanashi Prefecture near Mount Fuji, Japan. It is easy access from Tokyo by bus and takes around 2 hours. From the lake, you can see the amazing view of Mount Fuji, and during the cherry blossom season, you can see the cherry blossom everywhere near the lake. #cherryblossom25 #snowmountain #kawaguchiko #japan #cherrybloosom 📍Address: Lake Kawaguchi, Japan