Things To Do
in Yoshikawa

Yoshikawa is a charming city located in Saitama Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic parks. The city offers a perfect blend of traditional Japanese architecture and modern amenities. It is famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn foliage.

Visitors can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere while exploring local temples and enjoying the warm hospitality of its residents.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Yoshikawa's Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Yoshikawa City History and Folklore Museum to learn about the city's heritage.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Koshigaya Lake for a leisurely stroll and enjoy a packed lunch by the lakeside.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya where you can taste various Japanese dishes and interact with locals.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the Yoshikawa Green Park for a morning walk or jog among the greenery.

afternoon
:

Explore the local shopping district and try your hand at some souvenir shopping.

evening
:

Relax at an onsen (hot spring) for a soothing end to your day, followed by dinner at a nearby sushi restaurant.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi meal$15
🍜Udon bowl$10
Coffee$4
🚌Bus ticket$2
🏨Hotel per night$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences
  • Beautiful natural scenery
  • Friendly locals
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Some language barriers
  • Less touristy compared to major cities
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Yoshikawa

Visit one of these nice places.

Yoshikawa Cherry Blossom Park

Famous for its stunning cherry blossom trees, especially beautiful in spring when the blooms are in full swing.

Koshigaya Lake

A serene lake surrounded by greenery, perfect for capturing reflections and nature shots.

Yoshikawa Shrine

A traditional shrine set against a backdrop of ancient trees, ideal for capturing the essence of Japanese spirituality.

Culinary Guide

Food in Yoshikawa

Yoshikawa boasts a variety of delicious local dishes that reflect the culinary traditions of the Saitama region.

Yoshikawa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Yoshikawa Udon

Thick, chewy udon noodles served in a savory broth, often topped with local vegetables.

Must-Try!

Saitama Curry

A unique curry that is slightly sweeter than traditional Japanese curry, often served with rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Yoshikawa Street Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, street food, and handmade crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Yoshikawa experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). Winters are cold, with temperatures dropping to around 0°C (32°F) and occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

Bowing is a common greeting; the depth of the bow signifies respect.

Shoes Off Indoors

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

Quiet Public Spaces

Maintain a low volume in public transport and public spaces to respect others’ peace.

Safety Guide

Safety

Yoshikawa is generally very safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to remain vigilant and keep personal belongings secure, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire and medical emergencies.

Tipping in Yoshikawa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can even be considered rude; excellent service is expected as standard.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in many establishments; ensure to have yen for smaller shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect beautiful cherry blossoms around late March to early April, attracting many visitors for hanami (flower viewing).

Summer

Hot and humid weather; perfect for enjoying local summer festivals and fireworks displays.

Autumn

Colorful foliage can be seen from late October to early November, offering stunning landscapes for photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures with occasional snow; a quiet time to explore indoor attractions and enjoy warm foods.

Nightlife Guide

Yoshikawa at Night

Yoshikawa's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities but offers cozy izakayas, karaoke bars, and local pubs. Many locals enjoy after-work drinks with colleagues, making it a great way to experience authentic Japanese social culture. While there are some entertainment districts, the vibe is friendly and relaxed, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Yoshikawa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Kumagaya

A popular hiking destination with well-marked trails and stunning panoramic views from the summit.

Kawagoe Hiking Trails

Located nearby, offering various trails through historical sites and beautiful landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Yoshikawa by plane.

Tokyo Haneda Airport

Approximately 50 km from Yoshikawa, Haneda is one of the busiest airports in Japan, offering domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Yoshikawa is quite walkable, especially in its downtown area, where many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within a short walking distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and the city is generally pedestrian-friendly. However, for attractions located further away, public transportation or bicycles may be necessary.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Yoshikawa is home to many families, attracted by its quiet neighborhoods and access to parks and schools.

Young Professionals

As a commuter city, many young professionals live in Yoshikawa, taking advantage of the convenient access to Tokyo.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a highly popular sport in Japan, with local teams and games frequently attended by enthusiastic fans.

Soccer

Soccer has gained popularity in recent years, with local leagues and teams contributing to the growing interest in the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Yoshikawa is generally manageable, with most roads well-maintained. Public transportation, including trains and buses, is efficient and connects the city to surrounding areas. The train system is particularly user-friendly, making it easy for visitors to navigate the region without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Yoshikawa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's best to ask about fish-based ingredients.

Gluten-Free

While options are limited, some udon shops offer gluten-free noodles; confirming in advance is advisable.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Japan offers a high standard of healthcare, and Yoshikawa is no exception. There are several hospitals and clinics available, with English-speaking staff at some facilities. Travelers should ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide