Kawagoe, also known as ‘Little Edo’ (小江戸), is a popular tourist destination in Saitama Prefecture, just north of Tokyo, celebrated for its historical streetscapes reminiscent of Japan’s Edo period. In this video, the creator ventures beyond the usual travel guide highlights to showcase lesser-known and quieter corners of Kawagoe’s iconic Kurano-machi district (蔵の町)—a preserved area famous for its classic storehouses and retro commercial streets.

The video was filmed during less crowded hours, allowing for a more peaceful exploration of places often missed by standard tourist itineraries. Viewers can expect an authentic street walk through nostalgic shopping arcades with a Showa-era (昭和レトロ) atmosphere, tranquil back alleys, and historically significant locations such as Benten Yokocho (弁天横丁), an old entertainment and red-light district from the past. Sights like the famous Toki no Kane (時の鐘, Time Bell Tower) are shown, but the emphasis is on the city’s hidden, retro charm.

Kawagoe’s Kurano-machi area stands out for its unique blend of Edo-period architecture and postwar nostalgia. This deep dive reveals not only the well-coiffed tourist spots, but also decaying shop fronts, quiet backstreets, and reminders of the area’s former pleasure quarters—elements rarely featured in mainstream guides. Kawagoe is easily accessible from central Tokyo and is a rewarding half-day or full-day trip for those seeking Japanese culture off the beaten track in the Kanto region.