Carved in two by the Shinshiba River, Kawaguchi is home to a vibrant museum hub where you can delve into the worlds of science and film. You can also explore a picturesque botanical garden renowned for its topiary.
Things to do in Kawaguchi
Stroll through the Kawaguchi Green Center, Tokyo’s main botanical gardens. It boasts greenhouses with orchids, succulents and bougainvillea grow, along with creative topiary pieces, ornate fountains and blossoming plum trees.
Gain insight into early Western influences on Japanese architecture at the Former Tanaka Family Residence, which was built in 1923 by a local miso businessman. It features English-style brickwork and a Western-inspired wooden staircase that combine with traditional Japanese rooms, statues and interior features.
Travelling with kids? Inspire their scientific minds at the Kawaguchi Science Museum with a range of hands-on experiments and interactive exhibits. It’s located within Skip City, an educational hub that also includes the Visual Museum where you can get a behind-the-scenes look into broadcasting and making films.
If art is more your thing, visit the Kawaguchi Municipal Art Gallery Atria, which showcases contemporary works by local artists. It also functions as an artistic hub for the community, with regular art workshops in a range of disciplines.
Getting around Kawaguchi
Kawaguchi is around 30 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station and just over one hour from Haneda Airport. Buses travel throughout Kawaguchi and connect most of its sights.