Verified [Verified] denotes information that has been published with confirmation of its owing parties.
A landmark of Koedo Kawagoe that tells the time.
Kawagoe is only about an hour away from the center of Tokyo, and it is a city where you can enjoy the quaint streets. One of the most famous tourist landmarks in this city is the Bell of Time. It is a landmark with a striking presence in the street lined with old-fashioned warehouses.
The bell rings four times a day at 6:00 a.m., noon, 3:00 p.m., and 6:00 p.m. The bell is a three-story wooden tower about 16 meters high.
The temple was built about 400 years ago. It is said to have been built by Tadakatsu Sakai, a feudal lord of Kawagoe. It has been repeatedly destroyed by fire, and the current building is the fourth generation. It was reconstructed because of the Kawagoe fire in 1893, It has become an indispensable and beloved symbol for the people of the city. In 1958, it was designated as a tangible cultural asset by Kawagoe City. Moreover, in 1996, it was selected as one of the "100 Best Soundscapes to Preserve" in Japan.
In the old days, the bell was rung at a fixed time by the bell keeper, but now it is a mechanical bell. The sound of the bells, however, is still the same as in the past. If you hear the sound of the bell while strolling in Kawagoe, be sure to listen carefully.
Landmark of Koedo Kawagoe Bell of Time
The site has been selected as one of Japan's 100 best soundscapes to preserve.
The surrounding area is a town of warehouses built around the city.
Confectioner's Alley, where you can enjoy eating and drinking.
Confectioner's Alley, where you can enjoy eating and drinking.
Some reviews are AI-translated.
Walking along Kawagoe's old streets, lined with distinctive black-tiled buildings and filled with Edo-period charm, you can see the tall Time Bell Tower standing in the distance, telling the story of centuries gone by. Luckily, the bell rang at its scheduled time during my visit. Its clear, resonant chime made the whole trip feel even more like traveling through time.
After passing through the passage beneath the bell tower, you can also stop by Yakushi Shrine, tucked away inside. As the sky gradually darkens and the streetlights come on, the illuminated Time Bell Tower and the old streets create another kind of peaceful, captivating atmosphere. If you visit Kawagoe, don't miss this landmark filled with Edo-period charm.
When visiting Kawagoe, you’ll almost certainly pass by the Toki no Kane, or Time Bell Tower, which is filled with Edo-period charm. The old-fashioned wooden bell tower is one of Kawagoe’s most iconic landmarks, and its bell still rings at set times. The melodious chimes add a nostalgic atmosphere to the historic streets. Many traditional kurazukuri buildings have been preserved nearby, and walking along Kawagoe Ichibangai feels like stepping through a time tunnel. With the dessert and souvenir shops lining the street, it’s a great place to take a leisurely stroll, snap photos, and experience Kawagoe’s unique historic atmosphere.
When I arrived at the Bell of Time, it happened to start ringing. Its melodious sound echoed through the streets, creating a special atmosphere. There are also many historic streets, unique shops, and great food nearby, so you can stroll around and sample local snacks at a very relaxed pace.
I really love Kawagoe's retro yet lively atmosphere, and the Bell of Time became one of the most memorable sights of this trip. Taking photos, exploring the historic streets, and listening to the bell—every little detail lets you experience the unique charm of Little Edo.
Seeing Kawagoe's Bell of Time for the first time, I found it more charming than I had imagined. Although it isn't particularly ornate, it stands quietly in the middle of the old town, filled with a strong sense of nostalgia that makes you want to stop and take a photo. Walking along the nearby streets and looking at the historic buildings really feels like stepping back into the Edo period.
The whole street has a real Edo-period vibe. Super photogenic and full of character.
The shopping street feels pretty local too—not just touristy stuff.
![[Saitama Travel Guide] Enjoy Deep Nature, History, and Culture on a Day Trip from Tokyo!](https://static.gltjp.com/glt/data/article/21000/20717/20250810_232632_e30f3e6d_w640.webp)
![[Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine Travel Guide] Feel the Charm of Japan at a Famous Matchmaking Shrine](https://static.gltjp.com/glt/data/article/21000/20391/20250502_041535_b4f50444_w640.webp)
