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Museum · Saitama · Kanto

Kawagoe City Museum

川越市立博物館

Museum exhibiting Kawagoe's cultural heritage from prehistoric times to the present across five themed historical sections.

The models of the houses of the Edo era
The models of the houses of the Edo era
Opening hours
Mon–Sun 09:00–17:00
Holidays 09:00–17:00

Closed on Mondays

Admission
Standard
Adult ¥200
Links
Official website Japanese
Access
2-30-1, Kuruwamachi, Kawagoe City, Saitama
〒 350-0053
How to get there
Nearest stationHon-Kawagoe Station
本川越
Seibu Shinjuku Line37 min walk from the station
Nearest bus stop城下町4 min walk from the bus stop

The Kawagoe City Museum's core mission revolves around exhibiting, collecting, preserving, and conducting research on the cultural heritage spanning from primitive eras to modern times. The museum's exhibition space is thoughtfully divided into five key sections, each devoted to a distinct historical era of the region.

Functioning as an educational institution, the museum hosts an array of events including lectures, workshops, and special exhibitions. Additionally, it publishes informative books detailing findings and research reports, while also offering counseling services pertaining to cultural assets. This multifaceted approach solidifies the museum's role in fostering both learning and appreciation for the rich cultural history it embodies.

Exhibition Corner of the Primitive and Ancient Times

Artifacts discovered or unearthed within the city, such as Yayoi pottery artifacts, provide insights into the lives of the people throughout the period spanning from 30 BC to the 11th century.

Exhibition Corner of the Middle Ages

Devoted to the samurai warriors who gained prominence between the 12th and 16th centuries in and around Kawagoe, this section also delves into their unique culture intertwined with the prevailing Buddhist influences of that era.

Exhibition Corner of the Early Modern and the Modern Times

As several prominent feudal lords, who aligned with the shoguns of the Edo era, came to rule over Kawagoe Castle, the town gained significant importance as a castle town for the Edo shogunate. This historical connection fostered both political and cultural bonds between Edo and Kawagoe, resulting in Kawagoe becoming a noteworthy economic powerhouse of the era. The period saw active merchant engagement, solidifying the town's economic vitality. This exhibit zone vividly portrays the lives of people during this epoch. Through the lens of a castle town model, armor worn by the lords, tools of civilians and merchants, and a plethora of other artifacts, you'll gain insight into the multifaceted existence of this period.

Exhibition Corner dedicated to Folklore

The tools, instruments and techniques showcased within this section offer a glimpse into the craftsmanship and skill mastery of artisans during the Edo era.

Japanese Garden

In addition to exploring and delving into the history of Kawagoe town through its exhibitions, there is also the chance to appreciate the beauty of a Japanese garden.

Outdoor Exhibition

Getting There

Map: Getting to Kawagoe City Museum. Legend: Seibu Shinjuku Line; Seibu Seibu-en Line; Seibu Kokubunji Line; Shinkansen; Bus from Hon-Kawagoe. Labelled stations: Higashi-Murayama, Tokyo, Omiya, Urawa, Komagawa, Shinjuku, Ueno, Shibuya, Kokubunji, Seibu-Shinjuku, Sayamashi, Hon-Kawagoe.

Planning a trip? Fit this into a trip and Oni plans the rest around it.

At Hey Japan!, we strive to keep the places listed on our website as current as possible. However, location owners or management may alter opening times or modify admission requirements without prior notice. Check official websites before visiting.

Nearby

Places nearby

Castle

Remains of Kawagoe Castle

Remains of a castle first built in 1457 in Kawagoe, where the preserved Honmaru Goten residence holds exhibits on feudal-era architecture and history.

Kawagoe · Saitama
Shrine

Kumano Shrine (Kawagoe)

Founded in 1590 in Kawagoe, Kumano Shrine honours the Kumano deities and the yatagarasu crow, drawing visitors seeking fortune, love, and protection.

Kawagoe · Saitama
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