What is the history of Toki no Kane Time Bell Tower?

The Toki no Kane Time Bell Tower was built in the early 1600s to signal time and serve as a fire alarm. It has been reconstructed several times, with the current structure dating back to 1894 after the Great Kawagoe Fire.

How often does the bell chime at Toki no Kane Time Bell Tower?

The bell chimes daily at 6 AM, noon, 3 PM, and 6 PM.

Is there an admission fee for visiting Toki no Kane Time Bell Tower?

No, admission is free for all visitors.

What other attractions are there near Toki no Kane Time Bell Tower?

Visitors can also explore the quaint Yakushi Shrine behind the tower, which is believed to aid in healing eye ailments. The surrounding streets, with their traditional architecture and charming shops, offer a delightful glimpse into Edo-period Japan.

Is there a minimum age requirement to visit Toki no Kane Time Bell Tower?

No, people of all ages are welcome to visit this historic landmark in Kawagoe. So why wait? Plan your trip now and experience the timeless allure of Toki no Kane. So much history, charm, and beauty await you in this hidden gem in Saitama Prefecture.

Saitama

Toki no Kane Time Bell Tower

4 (9803)Historical LandmarkTourist AttractionHistorical PlacePoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated May 17, 2026

The Toki no Kane, or Time Bell Tower, stands as one of Kawagoe's most recognizable landmarks in Saitama Prefecture, Japan. This wooden bell tower has marked time for the city's residents for approximately 350 years, serving as both a practical timekeeper and a symbol of the area's rich merchant history. The current structure is the fourth iteration of the tower, rebuilt in 1894 following a devastating fire that destroyed much of the surrounding warehouse district.

Rising 16 meters above the streets of the Kurazukuri Zone, the tower represents Kawagoe's enduring connection to the Edo period. The city flourished as a vital supply center for Edo (modern-day Tokyo), and the bell tower regulated daily commerce and life in this prosperous merchant town. The bell still rings four times daily—at 6:00, 12:00, 15:00, and 18:00—maintaining a tradition that has continued uninterrupted for centuries. In 1996, the Ministry of the Environment selected the sound of these bells as one of the "100 Soundscapes of Japan," recognizing its cultural importance.

Visitors experience the tower primarily from street level, as it is not open for climbing. The attraction lies in observing its traditional architecture against the backdrop of Kawagoe's preserved warehouse buildings and capturing photographs of this iconic structure. The surrounding Kurazukuri Street features approximately 30 clay-walled warehouse buildings from the Edo and Meiji periods, creating an atmospheric historical district perfect for walking tours. Many visitors time their visit to hear the bell's resonant tones echo through the narrow streets.

The Toki no Kane is located in central Kawagoe, approximately 30 minutes by train from Tokyo's Ikebukuro Station via the Tobu Tojo Line to Hon-Kawagoe Station or the JR Kawagoe Line to Kawagoe Station. From either station, the tower is roughly a 15-20 minute walk through the historic district. There is no admission fee to view the tower from the street, making it an accessible highlight of any Kawagoe visit.

Phone

+81 49-224-6097

Website

www.city.kawagoe.saitama.jp

Overview

Address

Japan, 〒350-0063 Saitama, Kawagoe, Saiwaichō, １５−７

Traveler reviews

Kawagoe is a charming small town with a romantic feel, especially toward the evening when the lights come on and the streets feel calmer. The old-town area has a nostalgic atmosphere with traditional buildings, small shops, cafés and off course the clock-tower landmark, making it perfect for a relaxed walk and photos. It’s not a big place, so exploring feels easy and unhurried. The best part is that you don’t need to go far from Tokyo to experience this vibe. From Shinjuku, it takes around 45–55 minutes one way by train, depending on the route. That makes Kawagoe a great and convenient day trip if you want a quieter, more traditional side of Japan without traveling too far.

Teddy Hendra Z

Dec 13, 2025

Toki no Kane is one of the most iconic spots in Kawagoe, and seeing it in person really feels like stepping back in time. The wooden bell tower has a quiet, dignified presence, and the whole area around it—lined with old warehouses and traditional shops—creates a beautiful atmosphere. The bell rings four times a day, and hearing it echo through the streets is honestly pretty magical. It’s a great photo spot, especially at sunset when the light hits the tower just right. Even though it can get busy, it never feels overwhelming, and the surrounding shops offer amazing snacks and souvenirs. If you’re visiting Kawagoe, this is absolutely a must-see landmark.

Keane Wee

Dec 1, 2025

Visited Toki no Kane while exploring Kawagoe. It’s a well-known landmark with historical significance, and it’s nice to see in person if you’re already walking around the old warehouse district. That said, it felt a bit underwhelming. The structure itself is fairly small, and there isn’t much to do beyond taking a quick photo. If you’re expecting a major attraction, you might be disappointed. Overall, it’s worth a short stop as part of a broader stroll through the area, but not something to go out of your way for.

Sushi san

Mar 2, 2026

Funny to write a review about a clock tower. 🤣 Though when you come to see this landmark, it's more about the area then just the clock tower. Old Japanese architecture in the buildings surrounding this area. It is nice to see the old architecture compared to all the new architecture around Tokyo. It brings you into the historic past. There are several shrines in the area too. Though all these old buildings are now modern shops on the inside. Lots of different food, snacks, and shopping to be had. It is a large tourist area with not just foreigners, but many Japanese. And you will see people walking around in kimono attire. It is a fun time. Note: During the week, after 3pm, most of the dining shuts down getting ready for dinner around 5pm. So get there early and enjoy your time before 3pm.

Bret Caruso

Sep 29, 2025

Before continuing our journey to Saitama, we made a meaningful stop in Kawagoe, often referred to as “Little Edo” for its beautifully preserved historical charm. Our main purpose was to visit the iconic Toki no Kane, or Time Bell Tower, one of the most famous and culturally significant landmarks in the city. Standing tall amidst traditional wooden buildings and narrow merchant streets, Toki no Kane is a symbolic structure that has marked time in Kawagoe for over 400 years. Although the current tower was reconstructed after a fire in the late 19th century, it still functions today, chiming its bell several times a day to echo the town’s past. There’s something magical about standing in front of such a historic structure—an architectural reminder of an era where life moved to the rhythm of a bell rather than a screen. The surroundings of the tower added to the charm, with quaint shops, nostalgic alleyways, and the aroma of traditional Japanese street snacks wafting through the air. Despite the gentle drizzle that lingered from the morning, the visit felt calming and immersive—like stepping into a timeless moment. Stopping by Toki no Kane was a beautiful way to reflect on history before heading back into the rhythm of our modern travel itinerary. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Kawagoe, especially those seeking a deeper connection to Japan’s cultural heritage.