So, last time, I told you that I missed the chance to photograph red spider lily at Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine.
By the way, although I was disappointed with the flower, I fully enjoyed walking in Old Town Kawagoe in other respects. After all, it was the first time in a long time that I enjoyed a nice walk without the heat.
I used the same equipment as last time, Lumix G99 and Leica DG12-60mm, and walked around taking pictures while overcoming the pain in my shoulder.
A popular café on the main street is a Western-style building built in the Taisho era (1912-1926).
It has the feel of a retro Western-style building, but inside it is Japanese “kurazukuri” (storehouse).
The storefront of a footwear store that has been operating on the street in front of the station for as long as I can remember, more than 20 years.
An eel restaurant with a structure that looks like it has a long history.
In Kawagoe, you can’t help but notice eel restaurants. I have heard that it is because there are many temples in the area and there is a demand for Buddhism celemonial dinners, but even so, why eel?
You may imagine a “quiet old town” from these pictures, but the reality is different. The streets are definitely older and calmer, but they are not “quiet” because of the large number of tourists.
The area near the “Bell Tower” is crowded with waves of people.
This license found in the back of the liquor store per near the foot of that “Bell Tower”.
Once upon a time, I think I used to see this kind of thing at rice shops, liquor stores, tobacco shops, etc.
Now that more and more tourists are coming to the area, not only the original “Kawagoe-esque” stores, but also new stores that anticipate the abundant amount of storefront traffic are increasing. There are good and bad aspects to this, but it is good news for those who have good taste.
I will not reveal the name or location of the stores, but I would like to introduce a few stores that I think are “good” as told to me by my acquaintances.
A dried flower/wreath store.
This small store has a relaxing café attached to it.
A coffee shop not far from the bell of time but where you can relax without feeling the hustle and bustle.
Yes, I was told of another interesting place via an acquaintance.
A grassroots effort is underway to revitalize an area near City Hall that used to be an ex. bar district and is now lined with abandoned houses.
This is the site. This is an old bookstore, used clothing store, and restaurants that have already been revitalized and are in business.
The renovation work is apparently done on a volunteer basis, with those who want to do the work raising their hands to participate.
In addition to the store in this photo, there are several other stores, including a general store and a bar, that are doing a good business.
The following sign was posted on the adjoining land. They are planning to re-start another 3 shops here!
Kawagoe, a town called “Koedo”, is not just for sightseeing. It’s quite energetic, tasteful, and nice, isn’t it? Next time I come here, I’d love to have dinner and enjoy shopping in one of these places.
