Things To Do
in Saitama
Saitama is the capital city of Saitama Prefecture, located in the Greater Tokyo Area of Japan, characterised by a blend of urban development and rich natural scenery. It is known for its cultural attractions such as the Railway Museum, showcasing Japan's advanced rail technology history, and Omiya Park, home to a large bonsai village celebrating traditional Japanese art.
Despite its proximity to Tokyo, Saitama offers a more relaxed atmosphere with plenty of parks, historical sites, and recreational facilities, making it a diverse destination for both residents and visitors.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the stunning Omiya Bonsai Village to experience the beauty of traditional bonsai art. Enjoy a relaxing stroll through the bonsai gardens and take lots of photos.
Head to Saitama Shintoshin, where you can explore the Saitama Super Arena and its lively surrounding area. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant and enjoy some regional delicacies.
Wind down by having dinner at a local izakaya, enjoying authentic Japanese cuisine and drinks. If you're up for it, catch a live performance or event at the nearby arena.
Visit the historic Hikawa Shrine, one of Saitama’s oldest shrines, and immerse yourself in its serene atmosphere. Take part in a traditional purification ritual.
Explore the nearby Saitama Prefectural Museum of History and Folk Culture to learn about the region's rich history. Enjoy lunch at a local café with a picturesque view.
Visit the trendy Kawagoe, also known as 'Little Edo', to enjoy dinner in the old town area. Stroll through the beautifully lit streets and savor some local treats.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites and local traditions.
- Close proximity to Tokyo, allowing for easy access to the capital's services and attractions.
- Varied natural landscapes, including parks and rivers, providing opportunities for outdoor activities.
- Relatively lower cost of living compared to Tokyo, making housing and daily expenses more affordable.
- Growing community with various local events, festivals, and activities.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities like Tokyo.
- Fewer entertainment and dining options than metropolitan areas.
- Can be less international and diverse, with fewer expatriate communities.
- Some areas may experience slower economic growth and job opportunities may be limited.
- Occasional issues with urban infrastructure as the city continues to develop.
Best Activities in Saitama
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit Chichibu for hiking, camping, and enjoying picturesque scenery, including the Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park.
Explore the historical town of Kawagoe, known for its quaint streets, traditional architecture, and vibrant festivals.
Enjoy outdoor activities such as cycling, picnicking, and birdwatching at Shirakobato Park, which features a large pond and beautiful natural surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Saitama with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Saitama
Visit one of these nice places.
Chichibu is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including the Chichibu mountains, shrines, and temples that offer stunning views and photo opportunities.
Kawagoe, also known as 'Little Edo', features historic streetscapes and well-preserved old buildings, providing excellent photo opportunities for visitors.
Hitsujiyama Park is famous for its colorful flower fields, including shibazakura (moss phlox) and cherry blossoms, offering picturesque scenes for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Saitama
Saitama Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A stir-fried noodle dish unique to Hannou City, made with thick, chewy noodles and a savory sauce, often topped with vegetables and your choice of meat.
Must-Try!
Soka's famous rice crackers come in various flavors and are a popular local snack, perfect for munching while exploring the city.
Chichibu is renowned for its buckwheat noodles, served either hot or cold with a dipping sauce and various toppings, showcasing the region's culinary heritage.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Saitama better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling food alley in Omiya is a haven for street food enthusiasts, offering a wide array of local treats, from yakitori and takoyaki to taiyaki and tempura.
Known as ‘Kawagoe’s Little Edo’, this district is lined with traditional warehouses where you can sample delicious street food such as sweet potato imo-men and kashiwa mochi.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Maintaining eye contact is less common and bowing is a traditional way to show respect when meeting someone in Saitama, Japan.
It is customary to remove shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments in Saitama. Slippers may be provided for indoor use.
In crowded areas such as trains or public transportation, it is important to be mindful of personal space and avoid invasive behavior.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Saitama with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Saitama
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Saitama, Japan. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, taxis, or other service establishments.
In Saitama, Japan, cash is the most commonly used form of payment, although credit and debit cards are also widely accepted, especially in larger establishments. It's important to note that some smaller businesses may only accept cash, so it's advisable to carry sufficient cash for transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Saitama.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Saitama, Japan is during spring (March to May) when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Expect mild temperatures and beautiful pink landscapes.
Summer (June to August) in Saitama can be hot and humid. Consider visiting during this time for summer festivals and events.
Autumn (September to November) offers beautiful fall foliage in Saitama. The weather is cool and comfortable, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.
Winter (December to February) in Saitama can be cold, but it also brings the opportunity for winter sports and enjoying the festive atmosphere.
Saitama at Night
Hiking in Saitama
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park featuring a variety of hiking trails through mountainous terrain, rivers, and dense forests. The park is known for its stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Famous for its picturesque scenery and hiking trails, Mount Nagatoro offers various routes suitable for hikers of all levels, along with stunning views of the surrounding area.
Located near Kumagaya City, this mountain provides several hiking trails that allow for exploration of nature and offers great views of the region.
A scenic walking trail that provides access to the beautiful landscapes around Higashimatsuyama. It is ideal for families and beginners looking for a pleasant day hike.
This park features multiple trails and is home to a variety of flora and fauna. It is a great spot for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the outdoors.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Saitama through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Saitama by plane.
Located approximately 70 kilometers east of Saitama, Narita is one of the main international airports serving Tokyo and the surrounding regions.
Situated about 60 kilometers south of Saitama, Haneda is closer to central Tokyo and is a primary hub for domestic and international flights.
Although further away, located in Osaka, Kansai International is one of Japan's major international airports and serves a significant number of international flights.
Located near Nagoya, about 200 kilometers from Saitama, this airport services international travelers and is a major hub for the central region of Japan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Saitama, comprising a significant percentage of the population.
One of the largest minority groups in Saitama, often involved in various cultural communities.
A notable demographic in Saitama, contributing to the local culture and economy.
A growing community in Saitama, largely consisting of expatriates and their families.
Includes various other foreign nationals and expatriates residing in Saitama.
The Soul of Saitama
Discover the essence of Saitama through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Saitama, with numerous professional and amateur clubs, as well as widespread participation in schools.
Soccer has a strong following in Saitama, bolstered by the presence of professional teams like Urawa Red Diamonds and numerous local youth teams.
Basketball enjoys considerable popularity in Saitama, with many schools participating in leagues and the presence of professional teams.
Rugby is gaining popularity in Saitama, supported by local clubs and an increase in youth participation.
Track and field events are widely practiced in schools and local clubs across Saitama, featured in various competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saitama.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While vegetarian and vegan offerings are not as widespread in Saitama as in larger cities, many restaurants and cafes are accommodating to these dietary preferences, particularly in areas popular with tourists such as Kawagoe and Omiya.
Finding gluten-free options can be challenging in Saitama, but some restaurants, especially those with international cuisines, are starting to cater to gluten-free diets. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Saitama with these cultural adventures.
