Why I Took the 38‑Minute Train to Koshigaya
It started with a rainy afternoon in Asakusa. I was stuck under a tiny awning, watching commuters shuffle past, and thought, “I need somewhere quieter, but I don’t want to waste a whole day on a long trip.” A friend mentioned a direct train to Koshigaya that takes just under forty minutes. I grabbed my Suica, hopped on the Tobu Skytree Line, and was soon watching the city melt into suburban streets.
Getting There Without Changing Trains
The trick is simple: board the Rapid Express bound for Kuki at Asakusa Station. The train departs every 10‑15 minutes during peak hours and runs straight to Koshigaya without any transfers. As of the time of writing, the fare is ¥340, which is a bargain compared to a taxi ride.
- Check the schedule on the Tobu app; the last Rapid Express leaves Asakusa around 11 pm.
- Use a prepaid IC card (Suica or Pasmo) to breeze through ticket gates.
- Mind the platform – the Rapid Express usually departs from platform 2, but signs are clear.
What to Do When You Arrive
Koshigaya feels like a small town that’s been given a modern upgrade. The station area is lined with convenience stores, a few local bakeries, and a surprisingly good selection of coffee shops. I headed straight to Komeda’s Coffee, a chain that’s famous for its buttery toast. The coffee was warm, the toast was crisp, and the view of the street gave me a sense of calm I hadn’t felt in Tokyo’s crowds.
Food Finds
If you’re hungry for something more traditional, walk a few blocks to Shin‑Koshigaya Market. The market stalls sell fresh sushi, grilled eel, and seasonal fruit. I tried a bowl of cold soba topped with grated daikon – light, refreshing, and perfect after a train ride.
Shopping and Strolling
The Koshigaya Shopping Plaza isn’t huge, but it’s packed with quirky boutiques. One shop specializes in handmade wooden toys that make great souvenirs. I also discovered a small park near the river where locals gather for a quick jog. The riverbank offers a pleasant walking path, ideal for a short stroll before heading back.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Day
- Leave early – catching the first Rapid Express (around 6:30 am) gives you a full day to explore.
- Bring cash – some smaller stalls only accept cash, and ATMs are scarce near the station.
- Plan your return – the last train departs Koshigaya at 11:45 pm; missing it means a pricey taxi.
Wrapping Up the Escape
By the time the sun was setting, I was back on the train, watching the city lights flicker as we approached Asakusa. Koshigaya gave me a taste of everyday Japanese life without the tourist rush, and the whole trip felt like a mini‑adventure that fit neatly into a single day. If you ever feel the need to step out of Tokyo’s maze, give this 38‑minute ride a try – you might find a new favorite spot just a short hop away.
