Kawagoe Castle is classified as a hilltop castle, and is located in Saitama Prefecture. During the pre-modern age, it found itself within the borders of Musashi Province. It is associated with the Ōta, late Hōjō, Sakai clans. Dates in use: 1457 - 1870.

No gates or towers have survived from the Edo period. Even the moats & stone walls have long since disappeared. There is however, the castle lord's palace which dates from the mid 1800's & an old hall. Throughout most of its active life, Kawagoe castle played a role in the defence of the capital, Edo.

There remain numerous historical buildings in the old town of Kawagoe. Most famous is the Kurazukuri storehouses, which feature thick, plastered walls & rather heavy-looking roofs. In the city centre is an old bell tower that was rebuilt in 1894 following a massive fire the year before.

Timeline

1457	The castle was built by Ōta Dōshin. The Ōta were vassals of the Uesugi clan.
1537	Taken over by the late Hōjō.
1546	The Battle of Kawagoe Castle. Against an army far greater than those defending the castle, the Hōjō were not only victorious but very nearly brought about the complete end to the once mighty Uesugi clan.
1590	The Hōjō lost the castle at the time of their defeat to Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
1639	One of the many branches of the Matsudaira clan were transferred here. In the following years, the castle underwent extensive renovation.
1848	The extant palace was built to replace the one that burnt down two years prior.
1870	The castle was decommissioned.
1967	An old hall was moved back to the castle grounds though, in a different location.

Historical recognition

Site	Prefectural Historic Site