If you’re looking for a destination in Japan that offers a mix of traditional and modern attractions, then Saitama Prefecture should be on your list.
Located in the Kanto region, Saitama is often overlooked by tourists in favor of Tokyo and other popular cities.
However, this prefecture has plenty of unique experiences to offer visitors, from historical landmarks to natural attractions and more.
One of the best things to do in Saitama is to explore its historical landmarks.
The prefecture has a rich history dating back to the Edo period, and you can see this reflected in its many temples, shrines, and castles.
For example, you can visit the Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, which dates back to the 3rd century and is dedicated to the god of marriage.
Another must-visit destination is the Omiya Bonsai Village, which is home to over 120 nurseries and is considered the birthplace of bonsai.
If you’re more interested in outdoor activities, Saitama has plenty of options to choose from.
The prefecture is home to several parks, including the Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park, which offers hiking trails, hot springs, and stunning views of Mount Fuji.
You can also visit Moomin Valley Park, a theme park based on the popular Finnish cartoon characters.
And if you’re a sports fan, be sure to catch a Urawa Reds game at the impressive Saitama stadium.
Key Takeaways
- Saitama Prefecture offers a mix of traditional and modern attractions.
- Historical landmarks and outdoor activities are popular things to do in Saitama.
- Don’t overlook Saitama when planning your trip to Japan.
Historical Landmarks
Saitama Prefecture is home to several historical landmarks that are worth visiting.
Here are some of the must-see landmarks.
Omiya Bonsai Village
If you are a bonsai enthusiast, then Omiya Bonsai Village is the perfect place for you.
Located in the city of Saitama, this village is home to several bonsai gardens, each featuring unique and intricate miniature trees cultivated for years.
You can stroll through the village and see the bonsai trees up close.
Some of the gardens also offer workshops on how to grow and take care of bonsai trees.
This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area and also has a bonsai art museum.
Hikawa Shrine
Hikawa Shrine is one of the oldest shrines in Saitama Prefecture.
The shrine is dedicated to the god of agriculture and is believed to have been established over 2,000 years ago.
The shrine is located in the city of Omiya and is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
Visitors can also participate in various events and festivals held at the shrine throughout the year.
Kawagoe Castle
Kawagoe Castle, also known as “Fujimura Castle,” is a historic castle located in the city of Kawagoe.
The castle was built during the Edo period and served as the residence of the local lord.
Although the castle was destroyed during a fire in the late 1800s, the ruins have been preserved and are now a popular tourist attraction.
Visitors can explore the castle grounds and learn about its history through the various exhibits and displays.
These are just a few of the historical landmarks that Saitama Prefecture has to offer.
Whether you are interested in bonsai trees, ancient shrines, or historic castles, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Outdoor Activities
If you’re looking for some adventure and fresh air, Saitama Prefecture has plenty of outdoor activities to offer.
Here are some of the top options:
Chichibu Night Festival
The Chichibu Night Festival is a spectacular event that takes place in early December every year.
It’s one of the most famous festivals in Japan and attracts visitors from all over the country.
The highlight of the festival is the parade of floats, which are adorned with lanterns and pulled through the streets by teams of men.
The floats are accompanied by musicians playing traditional Japanese instruments, creating a festive and lively atmosphere.
If you’re lucky enough to be in Saitama during the festival, it’s definitely worth checking out.
Saitama Super Arena
If you’re a sports fan, the Saitama Super Arena is a must-visit destination.
This multi-purpose indoor arena hosts a variety of events, including basketball games, martial arts competitions, and concerts.
The arena has a seating capacity of 37,000, making it one of the largest indoor arenas in the world.
It’s also home to the Saitama Broncos, a professional basketball team.
Check the schedule to see what events are happening during your visit.
Yono Park
Yono Park is a beautiful majestic park located in the city of Saitama.
It’s a great place to relax and enjoy nature, with plenty of walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
The park is also home to a large lake, where you can rent paddle boats and enjoy the scenery from the water.
In the spring, the park is filled with cherry blossoms, making it a popular spot for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) parties.
Pack a picnic and spend a lazy afternoon in Yono Park.
Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience, a sports event, or a peaceful nature retreat, Saitama Prefecture has something for everyone.
Don’t miss out on these top outdoor activities during your visit.
Cuisine and Local Delicacies
When it comes to cuisine, Saitama Prefecture has a lot to offer. From savory to sweet, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Unagi Eel
One of the most famous dishes in Saitama is Unagi or eel.
The eel is grilled and served with a sweet and savory sauce.
It is often enjoyed with rice and pickles.
The dish is said to be a local specialty and is a must-try for anyone visiting the area.
Sayama Tea
Another local delicacy in Saitama is Sayama Tea.
This tea is grown in the Sayama area of Saitama and is known for its rich flavor and aroma.
The tea leaves are carefully harvested and processed to create a high-quality tea that is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
If you’re interested in trying Sayama Tea, you can find it at local tea shops or even take a tour of a tea farm.
Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to try something new, Saitama’s cuisine and local delicacies are sure to delight your taste buds.
Make sure to try Unagi Eel and Sayama Tea during your visit to get a taste of the local flavors.
Shopping Destinations
If you’re looking for some retail therapy during your trip to Saitama Prefecture, you won’t be disappointed.
The area has plenty of shopping destinations to choose from, including two of the most popular: Cocoon City and Kawagoe Warehouse District.
Cocoon City
Cocoon City is a large shopping mall located in Saitama City.
It has over 100 shops, including clothing stores, cosmetics shops, cafés and restaurants, bookstores, a supermarket, 100-yen shops and drugstores.
You’ll find plenty of big-name brands like Uniqlo, Zara, and H&M, as well as Japanese brands like Muji and Loft.
One of the highlights of Cocoon City is its rooftop garden, which offers great views of the city.
There’s also a cinema complex and a children’s play area, making it a great place to spend the day with the family.
Kawagoe Warehouse District
Kawagoe Warehouse District, also known as Kurazukuri Street, is a historic district in Kawagoe City.
The area is famous for its historical buildings and traditional warehouses, which date back to the Edo period.
Nowadays, many of these warehouses have been converted into shops and restaurants, making it a great place to experience traditional Japanese architecture while also doing some shopping.
You’ll find a variety of souvenir shops selling everything from Japanese sweets to clothing and accessories.
There are also several restaurants serving traditional Japanese cuisine, including soba noodles and tempura.
Overall, Saitama Prefecture has plenty of shopping destinations to choose from, whether you’re looking for big-name brands or traditional Japanese goods.
So, put on your walking shoes and get ready to shop ’til you drop!
Natural Attractions
Saitama Prefecture is home to a variety of natural attractions that offer visitors an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Japan.
Here are two must-visit natural attractions in Saitama Prefecture.
Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park
Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park is a large park located in the western part of Saitama Prefecture.
The park covers an area of 304 hectares and is a popular destination for families, couples, and nature lovers.
The park is home to a variety of activities and attractions, including hiking trails, cycling paths, flower gardens, and a large lake.
One of the main attractions of the park is the Cherry Blossom Festival, which takes place every spring.
During the festival, visitors can enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms by gazing at the trees that line the paths and lake.
The park also has a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a great place to spend a day with family and friends.
Nagatoro River Boating
Nagatoro River Boating is a popular activity in Saitama Prefecture that offers visitors a chance to explore the scenic Nagatoro River.
The river is surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests, making it a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of Japan.
Visitors can take a leisurely boat ride down the river while admiring the scenery and listening to the sound of the water.
The boat ride lasts around 30 minutes and is a great way to relax and unwind.
Visitors can also enjoy a variety of other activities in the area, including hiking, cycling, and fishing.
Nagatoro is also known for its hot springs, making it a great place to stay for a weekend getaway.
Both Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park and Nagatoro River Boating are great natural attractions in Saitama Prefecture that offer visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of Japan.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day out with family and friends or an adventurous weekend getaway, these attractions are sure to impress.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Saitama Prefecture known for?
Saitama Prefecture is known for its rich history and culture, beautiful nature, and delicious food.
The prefecture is home to Kawagoe, a historic castle town also known as “Little Edo” for its well-preserved Edo-period architecture.
Saitama is also famous for its bonsai, with the Omiya Bonsai Village being a popular destination for bonsai enthusiasts.
In addition, Saitama is home to Moomin Valley Park, a theme park based on the beloved Finnish children’s book series.
Is Saitama worth a visit?
Yes, Saitama is definitely worth a visit.
The prefecture has something to offer for everyone, from history and culture to nature and entertainment.
Saitama is conveniently located just north of Tokyo, making it an easy day trip or weekend getaway from the capital.
With its beautiful scenery, delicious food, and friendly people, Saitama is a great destination for anyone looking to experience a different side of Japan.
How many hours is Saitama from Tokyo?
Saitama is located just north of Tokyo and is easily accessible by train.
The travel time from Tokyo to Saitama depends on your destination within the prefecture, but it generally takes around 30 minutes to an hour by train.
For example, it takes about 30 minutes to get from Tokyo to Kawagoe, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Saitama.
What are the most popular things to do in Saitama with kids?
Saitama has many family-friendly attractions that kids will love, including:
- Moomin Valley Park: A theme park based on the beloved Finnish children’s book series
- Tobu Zoo: A large zoo with a wide variety of animals
- Railway Museum: A museum dedicated to the history of trains in Japan
- Chichibu Muse Park: A park with various outdoor activities, including a zip line and bouldering wall
- Saitama Children’s Zoo: A zoo specifically designed for children, with interactive exhibits and play areas.
