What other travelers are saying about Kawagoe Festival Hall
This is a small but very nice museum. It gives a nice history of the Kawagoe Festival and goes into great detail about the floats. There is a nice AV, but no English language as a guide does the audio presentation. However it is still worth watching. One of the best upsides (especially when visiting during the festival) is the bathrooms are VERY clean and not crowded.
This small but charming exhibit showcased the local annual festival, offering a pretty insightful glimpse into the community’s traditions. The staff were incredibly friendly and went out of their way to explain everything.
Found this museum in Kawagoe almost by accident and almost at closing time. In spite of this we were welcomed by the staff, and one of the volunteers there went on to give us a very interesting, detailed explanation of the Kawagoe Matsuri, its history, and traditions that are still followed to this day. We are so glad we came here and we're able to learn more about this festival. Thank you everyone at the Kawagoe Matsuri Kaikan!
This museum showcases a very unique tradition, especially Matsuri floats in depth. The topic itself was interesting and the staff were wonderful.
The receptionist was very welcoming, and offered us English audio guides.
The older gentleman giving the theater presentation was a true gem! He offered to take pictures of us with a float and props, told us which seats were best for viewing the video, and even gave us a little extra explanation in English afterward. You could tell he was proud of his culture and wanted to share it with others. (He was there around 1pm on Friday, Oct 10)
どうもありがとうございます
Thank you for a great experience!
Really great museum!! Only 300 yen but really well presented space with videos, lots of photo ops, and really nice layout of the floats and history. Also, the staff were soo friendly - one saw me looking at a photo op section and ran down with a list of English phrases to ask me if I wanted him to take my picture! Another one explained the floats and history all in pretty good English which was a first for me in Japan. The only improvement I would say is they could put English subtitles in the videos but all in all very worth it
Frequently Asked Questions
Two full-sized dashi floats, a second-floor viewing platform, and documentary films about the festival's history and preparation.
Yes. The museum provides year-round access to the festival's elaborate floats and uses lighting and sound to recreate the procession atmosphere, making it a practical alternative if you cannot visit during the October festival weekend.
Most visitors spend 30 to 60 minutes viewing the floats, watching the documentary films, and exploring the exhibits.
Many Japanese museums offer limited English signage. Confirm with the facility directly about English audio guides or written materials before your visit.
The museum is in Kawagoe's Kurazukuri district, home to preserved Edo-period merchant warehouses, the Toki no Kane bell tower, traditional sweet shops, and Kashiya Yokocho candy alley, all within walking distance.
