1. What is the best hotel to stay in if I want to be close to the main attractions in Kawagoe Old Town?
The best hotel to stay in if you want to be close to the main attractions in Kawagoe Old Town is Hotel Wakakusa no Yado Marushokan. It is located directly in the heart of Kawagoe Old Town, making it easy to explore all of the historic sites and landmarks on foot. The hotel also offers traditional Japanese-style rooms and a friendly staff who can provide recommendations for nearby attractions and restaurants.
2. Are there any traditional Japanese ryokans or guesthouses in Kawagoe Old Town?
Yes, there are several traditional Japanese ryokans and guesthouses located in Kawagoe Old Town, including:1. Ryokan Matsumuraya: This historic ryokan was established in 1887 and features traditional Japanese architecture and decor. It offers a variety of rooms with tatami flooring and futon beds, as well as communal baths and a traditional kaiseki dinner.
2. Kawagoe Prince Hotel: This modern hotel offers both Western-style rooms and traditional Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring and futon beds. It also has a public bath with natural hot spring water.
3. Matsuya Ryokan: Built in 1893, this ryokan has been run by the same family for five generations. It offers a variety of traditional Japanese room types, including suites with private open-air baths.
4. Guesthouse WAKA: This guesthouse is housed in a renovated traditional Japanese house and offers both private rooms with tatami flooring and shared dormitory style accommodation.
5. Fuwari Gekiyo: Located just steps away from the main street of Kawagoe Old Town, this small guesthouse has a cozy atmosphere and features traditional Japanese rooms as well as dormitory style accommodation.
6. Kanazawa Ryokan: This ryokan is over 100 years old and still retains its traditional architecture and charm. Guests can enjoy soaking in the onsen bath or dining on delicious kaiseki cuisine.
7. Gurankan Guesthouse: This guesthouse is located in a renovated machiya (traditional merchant house) from the Edo period. It offers both private rooms with tatami flooring and shared dormitory style accommodation.
3. Are there any hotels with a view of the historical buildings and streets in Kawagoe Old Town?
Yes, there are several hotels in Kawagoe Old Town that offer views of the historical buildings and streets. Some options include Kawagoe Prince Hotel, Kawagoe Tobu Hotel, and Hotel Wakashio. These hotels are all located within walking distance of the old town area and have rooms with views of the nearby historic sites. Additionally, Ryokan Matsumuraya offers traditional Japanese-style rooms with views of the old town streets and buildings.
4. What type of accommodations are available for budget travelers in Kawagoe Old Town?
There are various types of budget accommodations available for travelers in Kawagoe Old Town, such as affordable hostels, guesthouses, and minshuku (Japanese-style bed and breakfast). Some temples and shrines also offer overnight stays for a minimal fee. Additionally, there are capsule hotels and budget-friendly ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) that offer a unique cultural experience at a reasonable price.
5. Is it better to stay in a hotel in downtown Kawagoe or a more quiet location outside of the city center?
It ultimately depends on your personal preference and what you are looking for in your stay.
If you want to be in the heart of all the action and have easy access to popular tourist spots, then staying in downtown Kawagoe would be a better choice. You will also have a wider range of hotel options and convenient transportation options for exploring the city.
However, if you prefer a quieter and more peaceful experience, then staying outside of the city center may be more suitable for you. This could also provide an opportunity to experience a more traditional and local atmosphere. Keep in mind that transportation options may not be as convenient, so you may need to plan ahead for getting around.
Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preferences and priorities for your trip. If possible, consider splitting your stay between both locations to get the best of both worlds!
6. Are there any hotels with easy access to public transportation options for touring around Kawagoe Old Town?
Yes, there are several hotels in Kawagoe with easy access to public transportation options for touring around the Old Town. Some examples are:– Kawagoe Plaza Hotel: This hotel is located just a 5-minute walk from Kawagoe Station, which offers trains and buses to various sightseeing spots in the Old Town.
– Hotel Route-Inn Kawagoe Ekimae: This hotel is conveniently located directly outside of Kawagoe Station, providing easy access to trains and buses.
– Toyoko Inn Kawagoe: Only a 10-minute walk from Hon-Kawagoe Station, this hotel offers easy access to both local trains and buses.
– APA Hotel Nishi-Kawagoe Eki Higashi: Located right next to Nishi-Kawagoe Station, this hotel allows guests to easily take a train or bus to explore the Old Town.
– Smile Hotel Kawagoe: Just a 3-minute walk from Tobu Tojo Line Kami-Fukuoka Station, this hotel is well-connected to other transportation options in the area.
Ultimately, many of the hotels in Kawagoe offer convenient access to public transportation for touring around the Old Town area. It’s recommended to research specific modes of transportation and routes before booking a hotel in order to determine which one best fits your needs.
7. Can you recommend any unique lodging options, such as historical houses or converted buildings, in Kawagoe Old Town?
Yes, there are several unique lodging options in Kawagoe Old Town that offer a glimpse into the town’s rich history and traditional architecture:1. Kura-Hotel Kawagoe: This hotel is located in a renovated warehouse (kura) and features traditional Japanese-style rooms with modern amenities. Guests can also participate in workshops on traditional crafts such as indigo dyeing, calligraphy, and tea ceremony.
2. Kawagoe Ekimae Guesthouse: This guesthouse is housed in a preserved bank building from the Meiji era, which has been converted into a cozy hostel with private rooms and dormitories. The interiors still feature original details such as the vault door and high ceilings.
3. Ryokan Matsuya Honkan: This century-old ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) has been beautifully restored to its original Edo-period charm. Guests can stay in tatami-floored rooms, enjoy kaiseki-style meals, and soak in natural hot springs.
4. Hikage Onsen Hotel: Built around an old hot spring source, this hotel offers guests a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Kawagoe while staying in modern Japanese-style guestrooms.
5. Kawagoe Castle Inn: This inn is located inside an old samurai residence that has been passed down through generations for over 200 years. The spacious guestrooms feature antique furnishings and guests can enjoy views of the nearby historic castle ruins.
6. Maruhei House: This beautifully restored merchant house offers accommodations ranging from private rooms to entire houses for rent. Guests can experience authentic living in a traditional machiya (townhouse) while exploring Kawagoe Old Town.
7. Suitengu Annex Kazetachinohara: This renovated farmhouse offers guests a unique glamping experience with luxury tents set up on the grounds surrounding a 150-year-old farmhouse. The property also features an organic farm and restaurant serving fresh, local produce.
8. Are there any hotel chains or international brands that have properties in Kawagoe Old Town?
– Yes, there are a few hotel chains and international brands that have properties in Kawagoe Old Town. These include:1. Toyoko Inn
2. APA Hotel & Resort
3. Comfort Inn
4. Super Hotel
5. Richmond Hotels
6. Okura Nikko Hotels
7. Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts
8. Hilton Garden Inn
9. Best Western Plus
9. Is it recommended to book a room with garden views at a hotel near the Kurazukuri Street area of Kawagoe Old Town?
It ultimately depends on personal preference. Some people may prefer a garden view for a peaceful and scenic atmosphere, while others may find more value in staying near the attractions and amenities of Kurazukuri Street. It is recommended to read reviews and compare options before making a decision, to ensure the best experience for your individual needs.
10. Do any hotels offer guided tours or experiences around the historic sites and landmarks in Kawagoe Old Town?
Yes, some hotels in Kawagoe Old Town offer guided tours or experiences around the historic sites and landmarks in the area. For example, Hotel Matsumoto offers a walk-and-talk tour of Kawagoe’s traditional merchant houses, temples, and shrines. Kawagoe Tobu Hotel also offers a guided walking tour of the town’s historical district, including a visit to the famous candy street and traditional craft shops. Additionally, Ryokan Fukushimakan offers guests a chance to experience traditional activities such as calligraphy and tea ceremony in their Japanese-style garden.
11. Is it possible to find accommodations that cater specifically to families with children in Kawagoe Old Town?
Yes, it is possible to find accommodations in Kawagoe Old Town that cater specifically to families with children. Many traditional guesthouses and ryokans offer family rooms or larger rooms that can accommodate multiple guests. Some also offer amenities such as cribs or extra beds for children. Additionally, some hotels and guesthouses in the area may have special packages or activities designed for families with children, such as guided tours of the old town or traditional Japanese cultural experiences. It is recommended to research and contact accommodations directly to inquire about their specific family-friendly options.
12. Are there any hotels offering cultural activities or workshops relating to traditional crafts or cuisine in Kawagoe Old Town?
Yes, the following hotels in Kawagoe Old Town offer cultural activities or workshops related to traditional crafts or cuisine:
1. Kawagoe Prince Hotel – The hotel offers a traditional pottery workshop where guests can make their own pottery pieces using a potter’s wheel.
2. Kawagoe Tobu Hotel – The hotel offers a workshop on making traditional Japanese confectionery called “wagashi”.
3. Miyajimaya Ryokan – This ryokan offers a variety of cultural experiences including a tea ceremony, calligraphy class, and kimono wearing experience.
4. Wakatake no Yado – Guests at this ryokan can participate in an origami folding workshop or learn how to make traditional washi paper.
5. The Fujimoto-ya Annex – This hotel offers a soba noodle making class where guests can learn how to make soba noodles from scratch.
6. Kuraya Nasu Ryokan – This ryokan offers classes on making Omiyage (gifts) using traditional cloth dyeing techniques.
7. Kawagoe Tobu Hotel Hon-Kawagoe – Guests at this hotel can join a sake brewery tour and tasting session, as well as participate in a sushi-making workshop.
8. Nakamuraya Ryokan – This ryokan offers workshops on making traditional Japanese pickles (tsukemono) and wagashi (Japanese confectionery).
9. Resort Ringelheim Kurland Shozankan – This resort hotel offers workshops on making straw sandals (waraji), indigo dyeing, and cooking local dishes using fresh seasonal ingredients.
10. The Cage Hostel & Gallery – This hostel regularly holds cultural events such as tea ceremonies, calligraphy classes, and zen meditation sessions for guests to experience Japanese culture firsthand.
13. Can you suggest any unique lodging options, such as tent glamping, near the temples and shrines of Kawagoe Old Town?
Yes, here are a few unique lodging options near the temples and shrines of Kawagoe Old Town:
1. Camping at Nakaso Kogen Campground – Located near the Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park, this campground offers both traditional campsites and luxury glamping tents with amenities such as beds, furniture, and BBQ sets.
2. Staying in a yurt at Little Tree Guest House – This guest house offers traditional Mongolian yurts for guests to stay in. Each yurt is equipped with futon bedding and a wood-burning stove, creating a cozy and unique camping experience.
3. Glamping at Hachimanori Camp Village – This campground offers luxury tents with spacious wooden decks overlooking the beautiful countryside. The tents come equipped with heating, electricity, and comfortable bedding.
4. Temple lodging experience at Shukubo Daikouji – This temple offers traditional temple lodging where guests can stay in private tatami rooms and experience daily rituals such as meditation and sutra chanting.
5. Bamboo hut accommodations at Fuji Bamboo Garden – Located just outside of Kawagoe Old Town, this eco-friendly resort offers bamboo huts for guests to stay in. The huts are made entirely out of bamboo and feature modern amenities such as air conditioning and hot water showers.
14. What are some factors to consider when choosing between a hotel and a guesthouse/ryokan experience in Kawagoe Old Town?
1. Budget: Hotels tend to be more expensive compared to guesthouses and ryokans, so if budget is a concern, it may be more feasible to stay at a guesthouse or ryokan.
2. Size and atmosphere: Hotels are usually larger with more amenities and services, while guests houses and ryokans are smaller and tend to have a more intimate atmosphere.
3. Location: Consider the location of the hotel or guesthouse/ryokan in relation to the attractions you want to visit in Kawagoe Old Town. If you plan on spending most of your time exploring the area on foot, staying in a centrally located guesthouse or ryokan may be more convenient.
4. Amenities: Hotels typically offer a wider range of amenities such as spas, restaurants, fitness centers etc., while guesthouses and ryokans may have limited facilities but often provide a unique cultural experience.
5. Room size: In general, hotels have larger rooms compared to guesthouses and ryokans which can have smaller traditional Japanese-style rooms.
6. Traditional experience: If you are interested in experiencing traditional Japanese culture and hospitality, staying at a ryokan or guesthouse in Kawagoe Old Town would be a better option as they offer a more authentic experience compared to hotels.
7. Meals: Many ryokans include meals in their room rates, providing guests with the opportunity to try traditional Japanese cuisine. However, most hotels do not include meals in their room rates unless specified otherwise.
8. Language barriers: Some guesthouses/ryokans may not have English-speaking staff or provide accommodation for non-Japanese speakers. Make sure to check before booking if this is important for you.
9. Personal preference: Some people prefer the convenience and consistency of staying at a hotel while others enjoy the personalized service and character of guesthouses/ryokans. Consider your personal preferences when making your decision.
10. Trip length: If you are planning to stay in Kawagoe Old Town for a longer period, opting for a guesthouse or ryokan may feel more like a home away from home compared to a hotel.
11. Group size: If you are traveling with a large group, staying at a hotel may be more convenient as they often offer bigger room options and amenities for groups.
12. Accessibility: Hotels tend to be more accessible for people with disabilities compared to older guesthouses and ryokans which may have stairs or uneven floors that can be challenging for some individuals.
13. Availability: Depending on the season and availability, some accommodations in Kawagoe Old Town may sell out quickly. It is advisable to book in advance to secure your preferred accommodation type.
14. Reviews: Do your research and read reviews from previous guests to get an idea of their experience at the hotels/guesthouses/ryokans you are considering. This can help you make an informed decision on where to stay in Kawagoe Old Town.
15. Are there any eco-friendly or sustainable lodging options available for travelers visiting Kawagoe Old Town?
Yes, there are a few eco-friendly lodging options available in Kawagoe. Some examples include:
1. ECO-HOTEL Nagomiya: This hotel is certified as an eco-friendly accommodation by the Japan Sustainable Tourism Standard (JSTS) and offers sustainable practices such as using natural materials in their building construction and organic cuisine in their restaurant.
2. Machiya Chaya Hotel: This traditional Japanese-style guesthouse offers environmentally-sustainable accommodations with recycled materials used in their renovation process and locally-sourced ingredients for meals.
3. Guest House Murasaki no Ie: This guesthouse follows principles of sustainability by reducing waste, promoting recycling, using natural products, and supporting the local economy by sourcing ingredients from nearby farmers.
4. Bamboo House: This accommodation is made entirely out of bamboo and uses solar-powered energy to reduce its environmental impact.
5. Machiya Hotel Inn Kawagoe: This renovated historic townhouse uses traditional architectural techniques for better insulation and also supports local artisans by using handcrafted furniture and decor.
16. Is it necessary to book accommodations well in advance during peak tourist season for Kawagoe Old Town?
Yes, it is highly recommended to book accommodations well in advance during peak tourist season for Kawagoe Old Town. This is because the area can get very crowded with tourists, especially during festivals and weekends. It may be difficult to find available accommodations at short notice. Booking in advance will ensure that you have a place to stay and avoid any last-minute stress or disappointment.
17. Can you suggest any business hotels or accommodations suitable for business travelers in Kawagoe Old Town?
1. Kawagoe Prince Hotel: This modern business hotel features spacious rooms, a business center, and meeting facilities for business travelers.
2. Kikuya Ryokan: This traditional Japanese-style inn offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities and a meeting room for small group discussions.
3. Hotel Wakasato: Located in the heart of Kawagoe Old Town, this hotel offers convenient access to businesses and a meeting room for conferences or events.
4. TAS Inn Mukaijima: Just a short walk from the old town area, this hotel offers well-equipped rooms and a business corner for guests to work in.
5. Smile Hotel Kawagoe: With its central location and affordable rates, this hotel is perfect for budget-conscious business travelers.
6. Kawagoe Tobu Hotel: Situated near the popular tourist attractions of the old town, this hotel also caters to business travelers with its spacious guestrooms and meeting facilities.
7. APA Hotel Kawagoe-Eki Higashi: With free Wi-Fi and conference rooms available for rental, this hotel is a good choice for business travelers looking for affordable accommodation options.
8. Kawagoe Dai-Ichi Hotel: This centrally located hotel has well-appointed rooms and conference facilities suitable for meetings or workshops.
9. Marroad Inn Hanno: Just a short train ride away from Kawagoe Old Town, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and a business center equipped with computers and printers.
10. Toyoko Inn Saitama Tsurugashima Eki Nishi Guchi: A convenient base for exploring nearby businesses, this reasonably priced hotel offers free breakfast and complimentary Wi-Fi for guests’ convenience.
18. Are there any hotels that offer rooms with traditional tatami mats in Kawagoe Old Town?
Yes, there are several hotels in Kawagoe Old Town that offer rooms with traditional tatami mats. Some of these include:
1. Kawagoe Tobu Hotel: This hotel offers Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats and futon bedding. It is located in the heart of Old Town and offers easy access to nearby attractions.
2. Kawagoe Prince Hotel: This hotel has a variety of traditional Japanese-style rooms, including some with tatami mats and futon bedding. It also has a public bath and on-site restaurants.
3. Rikyu Kawagoe: This guesthouse offers private Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats and futon bedding. It also has a shared kitchen and lounge area for guests to use.
4. Miyamoto-ya Ryokan: This traditional ryokan (inn) has a limited number of rooms with tatami mats and futon bedding available for guests. It also offers a communal bath and kaiseki dinner meals.
5. FUKU-kenkyusha YADOYA: Located in a historic building, this guesthouse has both private and dormitory-style rooms with tatami mats and futon bedding. It is within walking distance to many popular attractions in Old Town.
6. Comfort Stay Miyabi: This ryokan has spacious Japanese-style rooms featuring tatami mats and futon bedding, as well as modern amenities such as air conditioning and free Wi-Fi.
It is recommended to book in advance for these accommodations, especially during peak seasons such as cherry blossom season or autumn foliage season.
19. Do any hotels in or near Kawagoe Old Town have hot spring facilities or access to public onsens?
Yes, there are several hotels in or near Kawagoe Old Town that have hot spring facilities or access to public onsens. Some examples include Kawagoe Prince Hotel, Ryokan Yamanouchi, and Kawagoe Tobu Hotel. It is recommended to check with the specific hotel for more information on their hot spring facilities.
20. Is it possible to find accommodations with a mix of modern amenities and traditional Japanese elements, such as a zen garden, in Kawagoe Old Town?
Yes, it is possible to find accommodations with a mix of modern amenities and traditional Japanese elements in Kawagoe Old Town. Some options may include ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) with modern facilities or renovated traditional homes with an attached zen garden. It is recommended to do research and read reviews to find the most suitable accommodation for your needs and preferences.