The quaint streets of Kawagoe in Tokyo have become familiar to everyone. People yearn to stroll along these historic, Edo-period streets, steeped in traditional charm. Recently, I had the delightful experience of exploring a narrow candy lane with my children—the bustling and delightful Sweets Yokocho.
From Ikebukuro Station, a 20-minute ride on the Seibu Line brings you to a charming destination.
Sweets Yokocho, much like Kita-in, Koedo Kurazukuri, and Osu no Machi, is a beloved spot in Kawagoe.
No need to travel all the way to Kyoto—you can experience the cozy and tranquil Edo-period ambiance right here!
Upon exiting the subway station, walk across the street to find the bus stop for the Koedo Loop Bus. Hop on the bus heading towards Kita-in.
Sweets Yokocho is conveniently located near the Tokei-dori (Time Bell Street), so you can hop off at this very station.
Each vendor expertly grills a skewer of mochi (soy sauce-flavored rice cakes) over hot charcoal. As the rice cakes puff up, they meticulously brush on a delicate layer of salted soy sauce, infusing them with an irresistible aroma. These freshly grilled rice confections come in a variety of flavors.
In this charming locale, you’ll find century-old traditional candy shops like ‘Gyokuryoku Seika,’ ‘Inabaya Honpo,’ and ‘Kasho’ all gathered together.
Apart from rediscovering childhood candies, this place is a treasure trove where you can also purchase an array of cookies, homemade snacks, and delightful novelties.
Speaking of the history here, during the Meiji era, these small shops exclusively sold candies. Unlike today’s convenience stores with their diverse array of products, it was a simpler time when sweet treats were the mainstay.
In 1923, the Great Kantō earthquake struck, affecting some candy manufacturers in Tokyo.
To ensure uninterrupted market operations, they relocated to the outskirts of Tokyo, specifically to Kawagoe.
Little did they know that this move would gradually transform the area into a charming alley known as “Candy Lane.”
Flipping through my cherished magazine, I stumbled upon an article that delved into the history and unique features of this sweet haven.
The greatest joy of Candy Lane lies in the freedom to select from an array of delightful and affordable candies and snacks. Most items won’t break the bank, allowing moms to occasionally indulge their children in delightful treats.
Although Candy Lane no longer serves as the primary hub for candy production, it remains a delightful gathering spot for sweets and snacks from all corners of Japan.
Visitors can find everything from traditional kinpaku-tō (gold leaf-covered sugar cubes) to vibrant,
And now, let’s add a touch of whimsy: multicolored jelly beans…
These candies are like a secret whispered by the universe—
they melt in your mouth, not in your hand!
Sculpted with traditional Japanese motifs, these candies are delicate creations made from pure cane sugar, resulting in refreshing mint delights.
And then there are candies with distinctive features and unique flavors, like this one— a whiskey-infused liqueur candy wrapped in a tantalizing sugar coat.
Perfumed with the sweet scent of candies, Candy Lane was once proudly hailed by the Japanese government as one of the ‘100 Fragrant Views of Japan.’
Visitors of all ages, whether young or old, find themselves lingering in this enchanting alley.
With every step, they discover unique features in each shop—
Candy Lane invites you to indulge in whimsical adventures, where every nook and cranny holds surprises waiting to be uncovered.
It’s a veritable wonderland for children, where they can freely explore and piece together delightful treasures.
Bring back some creatively crafted candies as souvenirs. And here’s a fun tidbit: Yoyo absolutely adores these tomato-shaped sweets!
For friends currently exploring Tokyo, if you have the chance, make a detour to Candy Lane—a delightful alleyway that exudes the sweet fragrance of confections.
