Kawagoe Sweet Potato Treats

Known since the days of Edo by the name Kawagoe imo, this district is a major home of the sweet potato. The sweet tubers that once filled the stomachs of Edo townsfolk are still loved today as a signature flavor of the town. Walk the warehouse streets and the fragrance of roasting sweet potato and rows of colorful imo treats greet you at every turn.

Highlights

Beyond the classic roasted and steamed sweet potato, the range is wonderfully wide, from imo soft serve to crisp imo sticks and confections filled with sweet potato paste. From sticky, honeyed varieties to the old fashioned fluffy kind, comparing the character of each shop is a delight. Along Candy Alley the retro atmosphere serves up one sweet temptation after another.

Enjoying the Seasons

From autumn into winter, when the harvest comes in, roasted sweet potato tastes especially fine. A steaming one held in the hand warms the body between strolls. In summer, cold imo soft serve and sweet potato parfaits draw the crowds.

Access and Basic Information

The warehouse district and Candy Alley are within walking distance of Hon Kawagoe and Kawagoe Stations. Many sweet potato shops gather around Ichibangai and the alley, perfect for a snacking stroll.

A Quick Tip

The trick to snacking is small portions across many shops. Strolling in a rented kimono makes for lovely photos as well.