Saitama (prefecture) Travel Guide
Discover the culturally rich and scenic destinations of Saitama (prefecture), Japan, from outdoor adventures to local cuisine and customs.
- Introduction to Saitama (Prefecture)
- List of Places to Visit in Saitama (Prefecture)
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Saitama (Prefecture)
- Hiking
- Biking
- Best Things to Do in Saitama (Prefecture): Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Saitama (Prefecture)
- Food and Drink Scene of Saitama (Prefecture)
- Where to Stay in Saitama (Prefecture): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Saitama (Prefecture): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Saitama (Prefecture)
- Best Time to Visit Saitama (Prefecture)
- Do’s and Don’ts of Saitama (Prefecture)
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Saitama (Prefecture): Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Saitama (Prefecture)
- Where to Go Next from Saitama (Prefecture): Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Saitama (Prefecture)
Saitama (prefecture) is located in Kanto, Japan, and is famous for its historic sites, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. With easy access to Tokyo, Saitama (prefecture) is a popular destination for both domestic and international visitors.
This comprehensive guide will take you on an unforgettable journey through the most significant cultural and natural attractions of Saitama (prefecture).
List of Places to Visit in Saitama (Prefecture)
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Kawagoe: Known as Little Edo, Kawagoe is an authentic historic district preserved from the Edo period. It boasts a maze of narrow streets, traditional warehouses, and merchant houses, some of which are now museums.
- Hikawa Shrine: A beautiful shrine near Omiya, with a long history and connection to the birth of Japan. The shrine is beautiful in all seasons and has a festival in July.
- Musashi Ichinomiya Hikawa Shrine: One of Japan’s oldest shrines, situated in an ancient cedar forest, and home to numerous deities that promote business prosperity and fertility.
Natural Attractions of Saitama (Prefecture): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park: A vast area of dense forests, rugged mountains, and pure rivers in the Oku-Chichibu Mountains. The park also has hot springs that are ideal for relaxation after a long day’s hike.
- Nagatoro River: A beautiful river used for water sports such as rafting and swimming surrounded by picturesque landscapes and stunning rock formations.
- Kumagaya Uchiwa Matsuri: In August, Saitama’s famous paper fan festival is a must-see event. These artistic fans are made by local artisans and are in demand throughout the country.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Saitama (Prefecture)
Hiking
- Mt. Bukō: One of the most famous peaks in Saitama (prefecture), Mt. Bukō, is a beautiful spot with a breathtaking view of the Kantō Plain gateway to the Chichibu Mountains.
- Mt. Hiwada: Mount Hiwada provides hikers with a stunning view of a vast expanse of mountains and forests in Saitama’s western region.
- Mount Mikabo: Mount Mikabo is a sacred mountain located on the Satoshima Trail with an amazing hike and an ancient temple that is worth the climb.
Biking
- Tamagawa Cycle Path: A four-river cycling route through Tokyo, Kanagawa, and Saitama (prefecture), with beautiful scenery and fantastic pit stops along the way.
- Chichibu Cycling Route: A grand circle route that offers majestic views of the surrounding hills and scenic locations that are perfect for cycling enthusiasts.
- Tour De Saitama: The 300-kilometer Tour De Saitama is hosted by the Saitama Cycling Promotion Council and is a fantastic way to see Saitama’s cultural and natural wonders.
Best Things to Do in Saitama (Prefecture): Activities and Tours
- Mitsumine Shrine: A thousand-year-old shrine in the Chichibu Mountains, that offers a spiritual experience while surrounded by beautiful nature.
- Kawagoe Food Tour: A food tour around the historic district of Kawagoe is a great way to learn about the region’s culinary secrets.
- Hikawa Shrine Summer Festival: A vibrant festival with fireworks, dancing, and music that creates a festive atmosphere and is a key part of the summer event calendar.
Week-Long Itinerary for Saitama (Prefecture)
| Day | Destination | Activity |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Omiya | Visit the Omiya Bonsai Art Museum and Omiya Park |
| Day 2 | Kawagoe | Explore the streets of Little Edo and visit the Yamazaki Art Museum |
| Day 3 | Nagatoro | Rafting at Nagatoro River and Hot Spring in the evening |
| Day 4 | Chichibu (City) | Visit the Chichibu Shrine and the Chichibu Big Buddha |
| Day 5 | Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park (West) | Test out hiking at Mt. Mitsumine |
| Day 6 | Kawaguchi | Visit the theme park and aquarium at Palette Town |
| Day 7 | Sayama | Visit the Sayama Hills and enjoy the Beer Garden |
Food and Drink Scene of Saitama (Prefecture)
Must-Try Dishes
- Oyaki: A stuffed dumpling made from buckwheat flour and filled with a variety of savory fillings.
- Kawagoe Beef: A tender and juicy beef that is raised in a calm environment and fed with high-quality grass.
- Shigureninjin: A traditional Saitama vegetable that is known for its nutrient content and has a unique flavor.
Local Beverages
- Saitama Craft Beer: Saitama boasts several micro-breweries that produce high-quality craft beers.
- Saitama Wine: Some vineyards in the area have been producing wines for over a century, which makes for an authentic wine-tasting experience.
- Sake Tasting: There are several traditional sake breweries in the area that offer tasting sessions and tours.
Where to Stay in Saitama (Prefecture): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Royal Pines Hotel Urawa: A luxurious hotel in Saitama City with a spa and wellness center.
- Toyoko Inn Kawagoe: A budget-friendly option in the heart of Kawagoe’s historic district.
- COTOHA HOTEL OKAYAMA: Located near the natural hot springs and forests of Okutama, it offers an authentic Japanese experience.
What to Buy in Saitama (Prefecture): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Bamboo crafts: The city of Hannō in Saitama is famous for producing bamboo products such as baskets and furniture.
- Urawa-yaki pottery: A traditional pottery style that has been fired in climbing kilns and painted with on-grey designs for generations.
- Shiguri vegetables: A tradition Saitama green vegetable, it is harvested in the winter months and is often served at New Year’s meals.
Local Culture and Customs of Saitama (Prefecture)
Saitama is an area with a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its traditional crafts, festivals, and the rice cultivation techniques used in the mountainous areas. The city of Kawagoe is home to many historical landmarks, while Chichibu is renowned for its annual festival Yukimatsuri, making it the perfect destination for visitors interested in traditional cultural festivals. Classical Japanese dance and theater have also been cultivated in the region over many years.
Best Time to Visit Saitama (Prefecture)
The best time to visit Saitama (prefecture) is in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the temperatures are mild, and the autumn foliage is at its peak.
Do’s and Don’ts of Saitama (Prefecture)
Do:
- Do try the local specialties: Saitama (Prefecture) specialty restaurants are a must-visit.
- Do learn about the cultural and traditional events of the area: Festivals and special events such as the cherry blossom festival are key tourist draws.
- Do learn some basic Japanese: Though English is spoken in tourist sites, learning a few greetings will go a long way in making friends and communicating with the locals.
Don’t:
- Don’t be disrespectful to the Shrines and Temples: Many of the Shrines and Temples of Saitama are very sacred locations and should be treated with respect.
- Don’t take pictures without permission: Taking pictures of people or children without their permission is frowned upon in Japan and should be avoided.
- Don’t leave your food: Japanese people have a strong culture of not wasting food, so it’s better to order only what you can eat.
Safety and Health
Safety in Saitama (Prefecture)
Saitama (prefecture) is one of the safest regions in Japan, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should still be aware of their surroundings and take precautions while traveling.
Health in Saitama (Prefecture)
Visitors to Saitama (prefecture) should take adequate precautions against tick bites while hiking in the forests. These bites can cause Lyme disease, so it’s important to wear protective clothing and use insect repellents.
Getting to Saitama (Prefecture): Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Saitama (Prefecture)
The Narita International Airport and Tokyo International Airport (Haneda) are the two major airports servicing the area.
Bus Stations Near Saitama (Prefecture)
The bus service within the prefecture is excellent, connecting all major cities and towns.
Other Options
Visitors can also take trains or hire a car to Saitama, which is well-connected by a network of highways and expressways.
How to Get Around in Saitama (Prefecture)
Saitama (prefecture) has excellent public transportation systems, with a vast network of trains and buses that offer smooth commuting within the prefecture. Cycling is another great way of exploring the area, with many rental shops located around the train stations.
Where to Go Next from Saitama (Prefecture): Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Tokyo: Tokyo is only a short journey away by train or car and home to many of Japan’s famous land-marks such as the Tokyo Tower and the Ginza shopping district.
- Nikko: In Tochigi Prefecture, Nikko is famous for its UNESCO listed temples and shrines.
- Kusatsu: A beautiful hot spring resort town nestled in the mountains, a must-visit for relaxation and picturesque views.
Conclusion
Saitama (Prefecture) is a fantastic destination for travelers interested in a beautiful landscape, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities. Whether you are looking to spend your time hiking, exploring historical landmarks, or simply enjoying the delicious local cuisine, Saitama has something special to offer you. Plan your trip today and embark on an unforgettable journey!
