Things To Do
in Honjō

Honjō is a charming city located in Saitama Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes. It offers a delightful blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern conveniences. The city is surrounded by nature, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Additionally, Honjō serves as a gateway to explore the scenic countryside of the Kanto region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Honjō
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Honjō Museum of Contemporary Art, showcasing local artists and exhibitions.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Yokoze Park, where you can relax by the pond and enjoy a picnic.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya, savoring traditional dishes and experiencing the convivial atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Head to the historic Honjō Shrine, where you can learn about the local culture and history.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Nagatoro River for a scenic boat ride and explore the surrounding cliffs and nature.

evening
:

Conclude your trip by enjoying a meal at a sushi restaurant, indulging in fresh, local seafood.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Ramen Meal$8
🍣Sushi Plate$15
🍺Local Beer$5
Coffee$4
🚌Bus Fare$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and historical sites.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited English signage in some areas.
  • Fewer nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent at night.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "おいしい" - Delicious

Places to Visit in Honjō

Visit one of these nice places.

Honjō Shrine

Capture beautiful shots of the shrine's traditional architecture surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring.

Nagatoro River

A stunning river scene perfect for landscape photography, especially during the autumn foliage.

Yokoze Park

With its serene pond and lush greenery, this park offers picturesque views throughout the year.

Culinary Guide

Food in Honjō

Honjō offers a culinary journey that reflects the flavors of Saitama Prefecture, with a variety of dishes that highlight local ingredients.

Honjō Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kawagoe Sweet Potato

A sweet potato variety from the nearby Kawagoe, often used in desserts and snacks.

Must-Try!

Saitama Ramen

A regional ramen known for its rich broth and handmade noodles, best enjoyed at local ramen shops.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Honjō Morning Market

A vibrant market held on weekends, offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisan crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Honjō experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F). Winters are cold and can see temperatures drop to around 0°C (32°F), with occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn feature mild temperatures and are considered the best times to visit due to comfortable weather and beautiful scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Use polite language and gestures; bowing is a common form of greeting.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional accommodations.

Respect for Nature

Dispose of waste properly and respect natural surroundings during outdoor activities.

Safety Guide

Safety

Honjō is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, basic precautions are advisable, such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping your belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire or medical assistance.

Tipping in Honjō

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected and included in the price.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is advisable for small purchases and local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather and beautiful cherry blossoms, especially at local parks and temples.

Summer

Hot and humid conditions prevail, with opportunities for outdoor festivals and water activities.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant autumn colors make this season ideal for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold and occasionally snowy, winter brings a quieter atmosphere, perfect for enjoying warm indoor meals.

Nightlife Guide

Honjō at Night

Honjō's nightlife is laid-back, featuring a mix of izakayas, karaoke bars, and small pubs. The atmosphere is friendly, and many establishments close by midnight. Local bars often showcase live music and offer a great way to mingle with residents.

Hiking in Honjō

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking Trail at Mt. Hachibu

A moderate hike with scenic views from the summit, popular among locals for a day trip.

Mizunuma Lake Trail

This trail offers a serene walking experience around a picturesque lake, ideal for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Honjō by plane.

Narita International Airport

Located about 80 km from Honjō, Narita is the primary international airport serving the Tokyo area, providing various domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Honjō is quite walkable, with many parks, shops, and eateries within walking distance in the central areas. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are frequent. However, some attractions may require public transport for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Honjō has a significant population of families, contributing to a community-oriented atmosphere with parks and family-friendly activities.

Young Professionals

An increasing number of young professionals are moving to Honjō for its proximity to Tokyo, creating a more vibrant cultural scene.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is extremely popular in Japan, and local high school teams often play matches that attract community support.

Soccer

Soccer has a growing fan base, with local clubs competing in regional leagues and community tournaments.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Honjō is generally manageable, with less congestion compared to larger cities. Public transportation options include buses and trains that connect well with neighboring towns. Biking is also popular, and many locals prefer to cycle for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Honjō.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are limited, particularly in traditional dishes; inquire at restaurants for alternatives.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Honjō is efficient and accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available. Emergency services are prompt, and most medical staff can communicate in basic English. Travel insurance is recommended to cover any medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide