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[Saitama Travel Guide] Enjoy Deep Nature, History, and Culture on a Day Trip from Tokyo!
Saitama is packed with attractions, from atmospheric historic streets and rich natural scenery to traditional culture and crafts.
Just an hour from Tokyo, it is also a popular choice for a day trip.
If you are planning to visit Saitama, make sure to put together an itinerary that lets you enjoy its many charms to the fullest.
This article introduces useful travel information and a model course for those planning a trip to Saitama.
Use it as your guide, and you will be able to enjoy Saitama to the fullest.
Saitama, the Colorful Prefecture Full of Diverse Attractions
Saitama borders Tokyo to the south.
While some areas have developed as suburban communities for Tokyo, many others still preserve rich natural scenery.
In addition, you can enjoy Japanese history and traditional culture through townscapes that retain traces of the Edo period and even the city known as Japan’s top center of traditional crafts.
With plenty of cultural facilities for families and lots of local food, Saitama is full of diverse attractions, earning it the nickname “the colorful prefecture.”
Saitama is also home to Kasukabe, the setting of the iconic Japanese anime Crayon Shin-chan.
Many fans visit Kasukabe as a pilgrimage destination.
Average Temperatures in Saitama and What to Wear
Saitama generally has little rain and many sunny days.
The main thing to watch out for is the summer heat, as temperatures can get quite high. If you visit in summer, be sure to take thorough precautions against heatstroke.
Chichibu has large temperature differences between morning and evening, and between summer and winter, with especially harsh cold in winter.
If you are sightseeing in Chichibu, make sure to bring warm clothing.
Average Monthly Temperatures in Saitama
| - | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average Temperature (°C) | 3.9 | 4.9 | 8.4 | 13.7 | 18.6 | 22.0 | 25.9 | 27.0 | 23.2 | 17.5 | 11.4 | 6.2 |
Seasonal Clothing Guide for Saitama
- Spring (March - May): Light jacket and thin sweater
- Summer (June - August): Light clothing, short sleeves
- Fall (September - November): Light jacket, coat
- Winter (December - February): Coat, thick sweater or jacket
Access to Saitama
From Tokyo to Saitama, it takes Approx. 25 minutes by shinkansen and around 35 minutes by local train.
From Osaka, it takes Approx. 3 hours by shinkansen.
Access is convenient from other parts of the Kanto region as well, such as Tokyo and Chiba.
However, Saitama does not have an airport, so it cannot be reached directly from overseas.
To get there from abroad, you will need to travel via Haneda Airport in Tokyo.
Access from Haneda Airport to Major Stations
Saitama has several major stations, but Omiya Station and Kawagoe Station are often used as sightseeing and transportation hubs.
Here is how to get to Omiya Station and Kawagoe Station from Haneda Airport, the main gateway for international travelers.
Routes using local trains can save on transportation costs, but they require transfers and can be more difficult to navigate.
The routes introduced here cost more, but they are easier to use.
Access from Haneda Airport to Omiya Station
- Route
-
1. Take the Airport Limousine bus operated by Airport Transport Service at Haneda Airport Terminal 1 and get off at Omiya Station West Exit
2. Walk Approx. 5 minutes from Omiya Station West Exit to arrive at Omiya Station - Travel time
- Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes
Access from Haneda Airport to Kawagoe Station
- Route
-
1. Take the Airport Limousine bus operated by Airport Transport Service at Haneda Airport Terminal 1 and get off at Kawagoe Station West Exit
2. Walk Approx. 3 minutes from Kawagoe Station West Exit to arrive at Kawagoe Station - Travel time
- Approx. 1 hour 15 minutes
Main Transportation Options in Saitama
When visiting sightseeing spots in Saitama, the main forms of transportation are buses and trains.
Saitama has a well-developed public transportation network with frequent service, making it easy to get between attractions.
It is entirely possible to visit Saitama’s famous and popular sightseeing spots using only public transportation.
If you want to travel around Saitama’s attractions more efficiently, sightseeing taxis and rental cars are also recommended.
You can travel directly to each destination, and unlike public transportation, you do not need to pay a fare for each ride.
If your budget allows, they are well worth considering.
Discount Rail Passes Worth Using for a Trip to Saitama
Many travelers want to keep transportation costs down.
For that reason, here are some great-value rail passes you can use when traveling in Saitama.
Why not use the money you save on food and souvenirs instead?
For Chichibu and Nagatoro Trips, the “SEIBU 1Day Pass” Is Recommended
There are two types of the “SEIBU 1Day Pass”: the “SEIBU 1Day Pass,” which offers unlimited rides for one day on all Seibu Railway lines except the Tamagawa Line, and the “SEIBU 1 Day Pass + Nagatoro,” which also includes unlimited rides for one day on the Chichibu Railway between Mitsumineguchi Station and Nogami/Nagatoro Station.
If your destination is the Chichibu area, choose the “SEIBU 1Day Pass.”
If you are also visiting the Nagatoro area, choose the “SEIBU 1 Day Pass + Nagatoro.”
The Attractions of Saitama’s 4 Areas You Should Know Before Your Trip
Saitama can be divided into four areas with different characteristics: the Kawagoe area, the Chichibu area, the eastern/central area, and the northern area.
If this is your first trip to Saitama, the Kawagoe area and the Chichibu area are especially recommended because they offer many highlights.
The eastern/central area and the northern area are also attractive places to visit on a second trip or if you are staying at least three nights.
The “Kawagoe Area,” Where the Atmosphere of the Edo Period Still Remains Strong
The “Kawagoe area” stretches from central to southern Saitama.
The biggest highlight of this area is likely the atmospheric historic townscape of Kawagoe.
This area prospered through trade with Tokyo during the Edo period (1603–1868), and its traditional kura-style warehouse townscape still remains today.
Along with the scenery itself, one of its charms is that you can enjoy restaurants and souvenir shops that let you experience Japanese culture in the kura-style district.
As you stroll around town, you can also visit historic shrines and temples nearby.
If you rent a kimono and walk along the street lined with kura-style buildings, you may feel as if you have stepped back in time.
Every year in mid-October, the Kawagoe Festival, designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, is held here, so if your travel dates line up, be sure to join in.
The “Chichibu Area,” Known for Rich Nature and Famous Power Spots
Located in western Saitama, the “Chichibu area” is rich in deep natural scenery.
Surrounded by mountains and full of mountain streams, it is a great place to enjoy activities such as river boating in summer.
Another major attraction is that each season offers something different, from moss phlox in spring to fall foliage in autumn and icicles in winter.
The shrines and temples scattered through the deep natural surroundings are also highlights.
Among them, Mitsumine Shrine is especially famous as one of Japan’s leading power spots.
If you want to enjoy beautiful nature and visit shrines and temples surrounded by rich natural scenery, this is a highly recommended area.
The “Eastern/Central Area,” Great for Shopping and Souvenir Hunting in the City
The eastern/central area, which covers the entire eastern part of Saitama, includes Saitama City, the prefecture’s central city, along with many densely populated urban areas.
Large commercial facilities are scattered throughout the area, making it possible to enjoy shopping all day long.
It is ideal not only for buying miscellaneous goods and cosmetics, but also for choosing souvenirs.
Although Saitama City is as lively as Tokyo, it also has many cultural facilities such as parks and museums.
Another attraction of the eastern/central area is how easy it is to get around thanks to its excellent public transportation.
Kasukabe City, the setting of Crayon Shin-chan, is also located in this area.
The “Northern Area,” Known for Local Specialties and Historic Sites
Saitama’s northern area is blessed with water from several rivers and nutrient-rich soil, and is known as a region where agriculture thrives.
In particular, Fukaya green onions grown in Fukaya are one of Saitama’s signature specialties and are well known throughout Japan.
Fukaya is also the hometown of Eiichi Shibusawa, one of Japan’s most famous entrepreneurs, and there is a memorial museum there that is well worth visiting.
While in the northern area, be sure to visit Gyoda as well.
The Tanbo Art there, which uses differently colored rice plants to create letters and images in rice fields covering Approx. 2.8 hectares, is truly spectacular.
It has even been recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s largest rice paddy art.
The area also has many historic sites such as burial mounds and castles, some of which have been used as filming locations for movies.
How Many Days You Need to Enjoy Saitama
If you focus on either the Kawagoe area or the Chichibu area, you can fully enjoy Saitama on a day trip from Tokyo.
However, if you are making the trip to Saitama, it is worth setting aside 1 night and 2 days so you can enjoy both the Kawagoe area and the Chichibu area, which are packed with highlights.
1-Night, 2-Day Model Course Around Saitama’s Popular Areas
Here is a 1-night, 2-day model course that takes you through popular areas, perfect for a first trip to Saitama.
Stroll through Kawagoe’s atmospheric historic streets to experience its history and culture, then head to Chichibu to enjoy the beauty of its rich natural surroundings.
Day 1: Stroll Through Kawagoe and Feel the Atmosphere of Old Edo
Spend the day strolling through Kawagoe’s historic streets, enjoying local food and shopping, and visiting shrines and a scenic park.
Experience Japanese history and culture while also enjoying the beauty of the changing seasons.
8:20am Start from JR Kawagoe Station
Day 1 of the model course starts at JR Kawagoe Station.
Take a bus from JR Kawagoe Station, and in 10 minutes you will arrive at the first sightseeing spot, Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine.
8:40am Receive Blessings at Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine
Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine is a historic shrine said to have been founded Approx. 1,500 years ago.
The main hall is decorated with intricate carvings and has been designated as a nationally important intangible folk cultural property.
Because the five deities enshrined here are family members, the shrine is worshipped as a place for family harmony, marital harmony, and matchmaking blessings.
In recent years, it has become known as a power spot for matchmaking. Stop by to pray for good connections during your trip to Saitama.
9:30am Enjoy Japanese Sweets at Kashiya Yokocho
After visiting Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, walk Approx. 15 minutes to reach Kashiya Yokocho.
It is a narrow stone-paved alley about 80 meters long, located just off Takazawa Street.
This popular sightseeing spot in Kawagoe is lined on both sides with nostalgic old-fashioned candy shops.
The atmosphere of the alley and the gentle scent of traditional sweets earned it a place on the Ministry of the Environment’s list of the 100 Best Fragrant Landscapes.
Enjoy strolling and snacking on simple, traditional treats such as senbei rice crackers, fu-gashi wheat gluten snacks, candy, and dango dumplings.
There are also dagashi shops lined with cheap old-style sweets, and just peeking in from the storefront is fun in itself.
10:30am Stroll Along the Main Street, Koedo Kawagoe Ichibangai Shopping Street
A short walk from Kashiya Yokocho brings you to Koedo Kawagoe Ichibangai Shopping Street, Kawagoe’s main street.
More than 100 unique shops line the street, ranging from long-established stores to the latest boutiques.
From sweet potato sweets and eel restaurants unique to Kawagoe to craft beer shops and variety stores, this street brings together a wide range of attractions. There are also plenty of sweets and foods perfect for takeout.
Walk along the street lined with charming kura-style buildings and enjoy shopping and local food.
11:00am Take a Commemorative Photo at Toki no Kane, the Symbol of Kawagoe
Just a short walk from Koedo Kawagoe Ichibangai Shopping Street stands Toki no Kane, the symbol of Kawagoe.
Toki no Kane is a three-story wooden bell tower standing Approx. 16 meters tall.
The bell rings four times a day, at 6:00am, 12:00pm, 3:00pm, and 6:00pm, to mark the time.
Take a commemorative photo with this symbol of Kawagoe and the atmospheric townscape in the background.
11:30am Enjoy Unaju at Ogakiku
After taking photos, head just a short walk away to Ogakiku for lunch.
Founded in 1807, during the late Edo period, Ogakiku is a famous long-established restaurant specializing in eel.
Even now, after passing through six eras, Edo, Meiji, Taisho, Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa, it is still known for its exceptional eel, carefully grilled piece by piece in the same traditional way.
Be sure to try the unaju, grilled eel over rice, made with the restaurant’s secret sauce handed down through generations since its founding.
12:30pm Look for Souvenirs on Taisho Roman Yume-dori Street
After filling up at Ogakiku, head to Taisho Roman Yume-dori Street, just a short walk away.
This shopping street is popular for its retro atmosphere reminiscent of the Taisho period, blending beautifully with Kawagoe’s charming streetscape.
The 160-meter-long street is paved with granite stones, and on both sides stand townhouses with tiled roofs, Western-style stone buildings, and kura-style structures.
With around 35 distinctive shops, from long-established businesses dating back to the Edo and Meiji periods to newly opened stores, it is also an ideal place to shop for Kawagoe souvenirs.
3:10pm Enjoy Spectacular Views at Hitsujiyama Park
After buying souvenirs on Taisho Roman Yume-dori Street, walk to Hon-Kawagoe Station.
From Hon-Kawagoe Station, transfer trains to Seibu-Chichibu Station. From there, it is Approx. 20 minutes on foot to your next stop, Hitsujiyama Park.
Hitsujiyama Park lies at the foot of Mt. Buko, the symbol of Chichibu, between Chichibu City and Yokose Town.
The park’s Shibazakura Hill is one of Chichibu’s signature spring attractions, with best viewing from mid-April to early May.
Another highlight is the scenic hill with panoramic views over the Chichibu city area.
4:00pm Feel History and Relaxation at Araki Kosen Ryokan
After enjoying the beautiful scenery at Hitsujiyama Park, walk back to Chichibu Railway Chichibu Station and take a bus to Araki Kosen Ryokan, your accommodation for the first night.
Founded in 1827, in the late Edo period, this ryokan has long operated as a temple-front inn where pilgrims could rest and recover.
The building used today has been there since the ryokan first opened, and its dark polished beams and handrails still convey a warm folk-craft atmosphere.
The hot spring, carefully preserved over nine generations as Miyono-yu, one of Chichibu’s seven famous hot springs, is an alkaline sulfur spring with a pH of 9.5.
The water feels smooth, almost as if you were soaking in a beauty serum.
Relax and unwind in the soothing hot spring and the nostalgic atmosphere of a traditional pilgrims’ inn.
Day 2: Experience the Grand Nature of Chichibu and Nagatoro
On Day 2, start with a visit to a famous power spot shrine, then enjoy the grandeur and beauty of nature in a variety of ways.
You will also get to try popular local food, making this the perfect course to wrap up your Saitama trip.
9:20am Start from Chichibu Railway Chichibu Station
Take a taxi from Araki Kosen Ryokan to Chichibu Railway Chichibu Station, the starting point of Day 2.
From the station, it is a 5-minute walk to the first stop of the day, Chichibu Shrine.
9:25am Admire the Beautiful Shrine Buildings of Chichibu Shrine
Chichibu Shrine, one of the oldest shrines in the Kanto region, is surrounded by rich nature, and once you step onto the grounds, a serene atmosphere unfolds.
The shrine buildings within the grounds are adorned with precise and vividly colored carvings and decorations that are sure to catch your eye.
After visiting the power spots scattered around the precincts, try the unusual mizumi-kuji fortune slip.
This special fortune, a signature of Chichibu Shrine, reveals the written fortune when the paper is dipped in water.
10:45am Enjoy Spectacular Views and the Famous Curry at Urayama Dam
After visiting Chichibu Shrine, walk to Seibu-Chichibu Station and take the 10:26am bus to Urayama Dam.
Urayama Dam serves multiple purposes, including supplying water, reducing flood damage, and generating electricity through water release.
The powerful scenery created by the rugged, massive dam and the surrounding mountains is unique to Urayama Dam.
After touring the dam, be sure to try the local specialty, Urayama Dam Curry.
Urayama Dam Curry is topped with ham cutlet, a boiled egg, and fukujinzuke pickles.
1:10pm Feel the Thrill and Natural Beauty of the Nagatoro River Boat Ride
After sightseeing and lunch at Urayama Dam, take a bus back to Seibu-Chichibu Station.
From Seibu-Chichibu Station, walk Approx. 10 minutes to Ohanabatake Station, then take the train to Nagatoro Station.
The reception area for the Nagatoro River Boat Ride is just a short walk from Nagatoro Station.
After checking in, enjoy a thrilling boat ride down the ever-changing current, sometimes rapid, sometimes gentle, while taking in spectacular views such as the Iwadatami rock formations, designated as a national Place of Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument.
You can also enjoy the different expressions of nature through the seasons.
2:10pm Take a Break with Delicious Sweets at Asami Reizo Kanekisaki Main Store
It is Approx. 10 minutes on foot from the Nagatoro River Boat Ride to Asami Reizo Kanekisaki Main Store.
Take a break at this long-established Nagatoro favorite and enjoy kakigori shaved ice made with natural ice.
Its signature features are the texture unique to natural ice and a wide variety of homemade syrups.
The most popular item is the Kuramoto Hiden Mitsu syrup made with wasanbon sugar, whose refined flavor and smooth melt highlight the natural deliciousness of the ice.
3:40pm Enjoy the Scenery of Chichibu and Nagatoro on the Hodosan Ropeway
After taking a break at Asami Reizo Kanekisaki Main Store, head to the Hodosan Ropeway, located a 10-minute walk away.
From the ropeway, grand mountain views spread out below.
In just 5 minutes from the lower station to the summit station, you can enjoy scenery from a variety of heights.
The views are beautiful in every season, but especially during cherry blossom and fall foliage season.
From the observation deck at the summit, you can take in panoramic views of the Chichibu mountains and townscape, and a walk around the area lets you observe seasonal flowers and plants.
6:00pm Eat Waraji Katsu Around Seibu-Chichibu Station
After descending to the lower station on the Hodosan Ropeway, walk to Nagatoro Station and take the train to Seibu-Chichibu Station.
There are many restaurants around Seibu-Chichibu Station, so wrap up your trip by trying one of Saitama’s local specialties.
A top recommendation is Waraji Katsu, a local Chichibu specialty consisting of a rice bowl topped with a giant cutlet shaped like a straw sandal.
It is essentially a pork loin cutlet served over white rice, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.
Soothe your travel fatigue with this excellent local dish.
3 Local Dishes You Must Try on a Trip to Saitama
Here are three carefully selected local dishes beloved in different parts of Saitama.
As you visit Saitama’s popular sightseeing spots, be sure to enjoy the local specialties cherished in each area as well.
1. Kitamoto Tomato Curry
Kitamoto Tomato Curry is a local curry dish that originated in Kitamoto City, a famous tomato-producing area, and is considered a casual gourmet specialty.
While there are slight differences from shop to shop, the common features are rice colored red with tomato and the use of tomato in both the curry sauce and the toppings.
You can enjoy tomatoes with different textures and flavors all at once, and the heat brings out the tomatoes’ sweetness as it blends with the spicy curry sauce.
It is a dish packed with the charm of local cuisine, allowing you to fully enjoy a regional specialty.
2. Konosu Kawahaba Udon
Konosu Kawahaba Udon is a local specialty of Konosu City, inspired by the fact that the Arakawa River flowing through the city was recognized as the widest river in Japan.
These udon noodles are characterized by their unusual width, like the Arakawa River itself, offering both a satisfying bite and a smooth texture.
The soup is often made with broth from bonito and other seafood, giving it a light taste with deep umami flavor.
Konosu Kawahaba Udon is also delicious as miso-simmered udon made with additions such as red miso.
It is a dish unlike ordinary udon and can even be said to be a whole new kind of noodle dish.
3. Tofu Ramen
Tofu Ramen is a popular local dish in Saitama City.
It is a soy sauce-based ramen topped with a thick sauce of seasoned tofu and ground meat, and it looks very similar to mapo ramen.
The soup, made with chicken stock, has a light flavor, so it is not as heavy as mapo ramen.
Although it often contains chili oil, it is not very spicy, which is one reason it is loved as a local dish by both older people and children.
If you visit Saitama, this is one bowl you should try at least once.
Best Cherry Blossom Spots to Visit in Saitama in Spring
One of Saitama’s biggest draws is its rich natural scenery. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom across the prefecture, creating beautiful seasonal views.
Hitsujiyama Park, which is also included in the model course, is a famous cherry blossom spot where 1,000 trees, including Somei Yoshino, weeping cherry, and double-flowered cherry trees, bloom in abundance. The wide carpet of moss phlox is also stunning.
If you want to see cherry blossoms together with rapeseed flowers, Kumagaya Sakura Tsutsumi is highly recommended. Enjoy the full beauty of spring along the riverbank.
Omiya Park is another recommended spot, known for its tunnel-like scenery created by Approx. 1,000 cherry trees.
Take a leisurely stroll through this park, selected as one of Japan’s 100 Best Cherry Blossom Spots, while admiring the blossoms.
Please refer to the table below for Saitama’s typical cherry blossom opening date, full bloom date, and best viewing period.
Keep in mind that these dates may vary depending on the year’s climate, temperatures, and the individual spot.
- Opening date
- March 27
- Full bloom date
- April 3
- Best viewing period for cherry blossoms
- April 3–April 9
Reference: Japan Meteorological Agency Cherry Blossom Bloom Status
Reference: Japan Meteorological Agency Cherry Blossom Full Bloom Status
Best Fall Foliage Spots That Color Saitama in Autumn
If you are traveling to Saitama in autumn, be sure to add some fall foliage spots to your itinerary.
Among the many places to enjoy autumn colors in Saitama, Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park is especially recommended.
You can enjoy fall foliage throughout its vast grounds of Approx. 304 hectares, and in particular, the Maple Garden features around 500 trees of Approx. 20 varieties.
Ranzan Valley, where you can admire autumn leaves coloring the mountains and clear streams, is another must-visit spot.
Chichibu Muse Park, with rows of autumn leaves scattered throughout the grounds, is also perfect for a fall walk.
In Saitama, many spots reach their best from late October to mid-November, but the timing may vary depending on the year’s climate, temperatures, and the location.
Join Saitama’s Festivals to Experience Japanese History and Culture
Nationally famous festivals are held in both Chichibu and Kawagoe, which are also featured in the model course.
If your travel schedule lines up, be sure to join the festivals introduced below.
They offer a chance to experience Japanese history and culture in a way that goes beyond simply visiting sightseeing spots.
Chichibu Night Festival
The Chichibu Night Festival is said to be one of Japan’s three great float festivals, along with the Gion Festival in Kyoto and the Takayama Festival in Hida.
Its biggest attraction is the parade of two lavish kasaboko floats and four ornate yatai floats.
One of the most spectacular scenes is when the 20-ton floats are pulled up the steep slope called Dango-zaka under a winter night sky lit up with brilliant fireworks.
It is held every year on December 2 (the eve festival) and December 3 (the main festival).
Kawagoe Festival
The Kawagoe Festival is a hallmark of autumn, held every year on the third Saturday and Sunday of October.
Many people come from all over, and Kawagoe becomes more lively than at any other time of year.
With a history of more than 370 years, this festival was designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property in 2005 and registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2016. It is known for its long history and cultural value.
FAQ about Traveling in Saitama
Q
What is the best season to travel to Saitama?
A
Spring and autumn are recommended, when Saitama’s rich natural scenery becomes even more beautiful.
Q
What are some recommended sightseeing spots in Saitama for a family trip?
A
Chichibu and Nagatoro are recommended, where you can enjoy activities such as river boat rides along with rich natural scenery.
Summary
We have introduced useful information and a model course to help you plan a trip to Saitama, a destination with many different attractions. What did you think?
One of Saitama’s greatest charms is its rich natural scenery, which changes beautifully with the seasons, so it is also a good idea to adjust the model course to match the time of year.
There are many other appealing sightseeing spots that were not covered in this article.
Before your trip, be sure to check out this article as well, which features a carefully selected list of Saitama sightseeing spots.