Things To Do
in Koshigaya

Koshigaya is a vibrant city located in Saitama Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich cultural heritage and modern amenities. The city offers a mix of urban attractions alongside natural beauty, with parks and rivers providing picturesque settings. Koshigaya is also famous for its shopping districts, including the popular Koshigaya Laketown.

With its convenient access to Tokyo, Koshigaya is an appealing destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Koshigaya
morning
:

Start your day at Koshigaya LakeTown, a large shopping complex featuring various shops, cafes, and restaurants. Enjoy breakfast at one of the local bakeries.

afternoon
:

Visit the Koshigaya City Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Afterward, take a stroll through the beautiful Koshigaya Park.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya, trying out some traditional Japanese dishes. End the evening with a relaxing walk along the river.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Shopping
morning
:

Head to the Musashino Forest Park for a morning of outdoor activities, including cycling and walking trails.

afternoon
:

Return to the city and explore the shopping streets of Koshigaya, where you can find unique souvenirs and local crafts.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a sushi restaurant, followed by a visit to the Koshigaya nightlife area for some drinks and entertainment.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
Coffee$4
🍜Ramen$10
🚌Bus Ticket$1.50
🏨Hotel per Night$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Convenient access to Tokyo for day trips.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Variety of shopping and dining options.
  • Less touristy than other major Japanese cities.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "英語を話せますか?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Koshigaya

Visit one of these nice places.

Koshigaya Lake

A serene lake perfect for capturing sunset views and reflections.

Koshigaya Park

Beautiful landscapes with cherry blossoms in spring, offering a perfect backdrop for photos.

Koshigaya Shrine

A traditional shrine with stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings, ideal for cultural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Koshigaya

Koshigaya offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect the region's flavors and traditions.

Koshigaya Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Koshigaya Udon

Thick, chewy noodles served in a savory broth, often topped with tempura or green onions.

Must-Try!

Saitama Chashu Ramen

Rich and flavorful ramen topped with tender braised pork, a local specialty.

Koshigaya Yakitori

Grilled skewered chicken served with a variety of sauces and seasonings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Koshigaya Street Market

A bustling market offering fresh produce, local snacks, and street food vendors.

Koshigaya Night Market

A vibrant night market featuring food stalls, games, and local artisans.

Climate Guide

Weather

Koshigaya experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C (32°F). Rain is common in the summer months, and occasional snowfall occurs in winter. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

A common form of greeting and showing respect; bowing is customary when meeting someone.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Quietness in Public Transport

Maintain a quiet demeanor on public transport; speaking loudly is considered impolite.

Safety Guide

Safety

Koshigaya is generally considered a safe city with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire or medical emergencies.

Tipping in Koshigaya

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected without additional gratuity.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but many places accept credit cards; it's advisable to have yen on hand.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and humid weather, perfect for enjoying water activities and exploring shaded parks.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures with stunning fall foliage, especially in parks and nature areas.

Winter

Cold temperatures and occasional snowfall; it's a good time to explore indoor attractions and enjoy winter festivities.

Nightlife Guide

Koshigaya at Night

Koshigaya's nightlife is lively and diverse, featuring a variety of bars, izakayas, and entertainment venues. The city has a mix of local pubs where you can enjoy drinks and traditional Japanese snacks, as well as modern clubs with music and dance. Many establishments stay open late, making it an ideal place for socializing after dark, especially around the Koshigaya station area.

Hiking in Koshigaya

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hikawa Shrine Trail

A scenic trail that leads to the historic Hikawa Shrine, offering beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Musashino Forest Park Trails

A series of trails within Musashino Forest Park, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying nature.

Airports

How to reach Koshigaya by plane.

Narita International Airport

Located about 60 kilometers from Koshigaya, Narita is one of the main international airports serving Tokyo and offers a range of domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Koshigaya is quite walkable, especially in the city center where amenities are close together. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are frequent. The presence of parks and recreational areas makes it easy to explore on foot, providing a pleasant walking experience for visitors.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

A significant demographic in Koshigaya, young families appreciate the city's parks and educational facilities.

Senior Citizens

The city has a growing population of senior citizens, with various community programs catering to their needs.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is extremely popular in Japan, with local teams often playing in Koshigaya.

Soccer

Soccer also has a strong following, with local clubs participating in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Koshigaya can be busy during peak hours, especially around major shopping areas and train stations. Public transportation is highly efficient, with a network of trains and buses connecting to Tokyo and surrounding areas. The city encourages the use of bicycles and walking, making it easier to navigate without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Koshigaya.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

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

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited; however, there are rice-based dishes available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Koshigaya is excellent, with various hospitals and clinics available. Emergency services are efficient, and many healthcare providers offer services in English. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide