Kawagoe City Museum

The Kawagoe City Museum (川越市立博物館, Kawagoe Shiritsu Hakubutsukan) offers visitors a fascinating journey through the city's history, showcasing its evolution from ancient times to the present day. The museum brings Kawagoe’s past to life through real artifacts, full-scale models, and excavated relics. One of the standout exhibits is a detailed kurazukuri (warehouse-style) construction model, demonstrating how the thick, fire-resistant walls of traditional buildings were built. Another highlight is a meticulously crafted model of the old castle town, illustrating how Kawagoe grew and transformed over the centuries, reflecting its changing role in regional and national history.

In addition to its historical displays, the museum explores Kawagoe’s deepening connection to Edo (modern-day Tokyo) in the 17th century, which earned it the nickname "Little Edo." The museum is located next to the Kawagoe City Art Museum, which houses modern and contemporary works by artists with ties to the city. Alongside its permanent collection, the art museum hosts several special exhibitions throughout the year, offering a dynamic and diverse look at local and national art. This combination of history and art makes the Kawagoe City Museum an enriching destination for anyone interested in both the city’s past and its evolving cultural identity.