Most Japan tourists feel obliged to visit Kyoto, and I get it. The much-publicized city is full of classic, quintessential Japanese sites and experiences. But it’s also overcrowded and, dare I say, a little overhyped. So when people have to choose between Kyoto or Tokyo, I always tell them, go to Tokyo and take a daytrip to Kawagoe. Why? This historical town offers a taste of old Japan without the crowds and is just an hour and a half train ride from Tokyo. You’ll certainly feel as if you’ve gone back in time as you dine on local delicassies and sake, admire classic Japanese architecture and honor love at a Japanese shrine.

The Time Bell Tower

Arguably Kawagoe’s most iconic site, The Time Bell Tower, or “Toki-No-Kane,” was originally built during the Edo Period to help Kawagoe citizens keep track of time. The bell stands 16 meters high and is still rung four times a day. Walk beneath the tower to find a small but endearing shrine.

Starbucks

Yes, I know Starbucks isn’t historical or Japanese in origin, but this Starbucks is still worth a visit solely because of its fitting and tasteful architecture. Carefully crafted to fit in amongst the old-style buildings that neighbor this modern, international coffee shop, this Starbucks even includes a serene Japanese garden. Plus, it’s located just a few buildings past the Time Bell Tower so you can’t miss it.

Candy Lane

Satisfy your sweet tooth at “Kashiya Yokocho” otherwise known as Candy Lane by English speakers. The charming street is lined with candy stores selling endless Japanese treats. Bite into sugary bread known as “fugashi” or try some of Kawagoe’s many takes on sweet potato including sweet potato ice cream and sweet potato chips. And don’t forget to purchase some “imokoi:” a rice bun stuffed with sweet bean paste and sweet potato.

Hikawa Shrine

Visit Japan’s famous love shrine dedicated to the god of marriage. Fish for your fortune in one of the boxes full of paper-mache fish. Reel in a red fish to receive divine dating advice and predictions. Those who are single and ready to mingle can fish for a pink fish to receive their true love prophecy.

Koedo Kurari

Koedo Kurari was a sake brewery later converted into a shopping center. The store now sells local delicacies, souvenirs and sake. One of its three buildings also offers sake tastings where you can try local Saitama sake and “umeshu,” or plum wine.

Stroll the Streets

Kawagoe is very walk friendly, so go ahead and meander through its narrow streets. Take in all this town has to offer from its historical buildings to its artistically painted manhole covers. You may even discover some hidden treasures. We for instance came upon a beautiful koi pond during our stroll.