Kawagoe has far too much soul for a rushed day trip. To truly feel the spirit of this “Little Edo,” stay the night at Chabudai Guesthouse, a restored traditional home where community, conversation, and calm await curious travelers.

The name Chabudai comes from the low dining tables once found in every Japanese home, where families shared hearty meals. That same feeling of warmth and connection fills the air of the guesthouse. Nestled in Kawagoe’s Sankubocho district, just a short stroll from the town’s famous warehouse streets, Chabudai occupies a rustic house that has stood for more than a century. Once a fertilizer wholesaler, it was revived by its current owners with the help of friends and locals who breathed life back into its old structures.

Step through the entrance onto the traditional doma (earthen floor), and you’ll find yourself in Chabudai’s cozy café. During the day, savor seasonal sweets made with local ingredients. As the sun sets, the café transforms into a relaxed bar, an easygoing spot to sip a drink on the wooden deck beneath the night sky. At Chabudai, the whole town becomes part of your stay. In the morning, sip coffee at the café. Spend your day strolling cobblestone alleys, visiting shrines, or browsing antique shops. Soak in a public bath, then share a drink at a local izakaya before heading “home.” Back at Chabudai, swap stories with fellow travelers in the guest lounge or enjoy a quiet moment gazing at the small garden.