Explore Saitama: 27 Popular Sightseeing Spots

Mitsumine Shrine, one of the three major shrines in Chichibu, was founded approximately 1,900 years ago by the legendary Yamato Takeru. This unique shrine features a rare "Mitsutorii" (Triple Torii Gate) and statues of wolves instead of traditional guardian lion-dogs, symbolizing its historical association with wolf deity worship. Renowned as a powerful spiritual site, visitors often seek the "Kishin Charm," which contains sacred energy from the shrine's revered trees. Nestled in the depths of a mountain at an altitude of about 1,100 meters, this shrine exudes an enchanting and mystical atmosphere.

Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, known as the guardian shrine of Kawagoe, has a history dating back approximately 1,500 years. It originated as a branch of the renowned Omiya Hikawa Shrine, the primary shrine of the Musashi Province. The shrine enshrines five deities, including the main deity, Susanoo-no-Mikoto, who is revered as the god of harmonious relationships and matchmaking. Visitors from all over come to seek blessings for love and marital harmony. The shrine is particularly famous for its colorful Edo-style wind chime festival, "Enmusubi Furin," held annually from early July to early September, featuring over 2,000 wind chimes hanging throughout the grounds. The enchanting display is a popular Instagram spot during summer.

Nestled on the shores of Miyazawa Lake in Hannō City, Metsä Village offers a relaxing atmosphere reminiscent of Scandinavia. Visitors can explore a market featuring local ingredients from Hannō City and Saitama Prefecture, shops selling Nordic home goods and furniture, and workshops where you can immerse yourself in Scandinavian culture. Additionally, there are restaurants serving authentic Nordic cuisine and even a café by Roberts Coffee, a famous coffee chain from Scandinavia.

Opened in 2019, Moominvalley Park is the first theme park in Japan where visitors can experience the enchanting world of the Moomins. The park features four distinct areas, each offering unique attractions:
Hajimari no Irie (The Beginning Cove): Home to shops and restaurants.
Moomin Valley Area: Enjoy rides and interactive attractions.
Kokemus: Hosts permanent and special exhibitions as well as workshops.
Osabishiyama Area (Lonely Mountain): Features athletic activities and a treehouse.

Whether you’re exploring Moomin-inspired exhibits or enjoying thrilling activities, there’s something for everyone.

Opened in November 2020, the Kadokawa Musashino Museum is a cultural complex that combines a library, art museum, and history museum. The interior features immersive exhibits blending physical and virtual elements, offering a captivating experience. A highlight is the breathtaking "Bookshelf Theater," surrounded by towering bookshelves approximately 8 meters high, holding about 30,000 books. Other attractions include the Aramata Wonder Treasure Museum, a collection of Japan's most fascinating curiosities, and the EJ Anime Museum, which presents Japanese anime culture through unique perspectives. This versatile destination offers enjoyment for visitors of all ages.

Experience the charm of historic Kawagoe, known as "Little Edo," with its two must-visit attractions. The iconic Toki no Kane, a bell tower originally built during the early Edo period by Lord Tadakatsu Sakai of Kawagoe Castle, has stood as a symbol of the city for centuries. The current tower, reconstructed in 1894, chimes four times daily, filling the town with its nostalgic sound. Nearby, take a stroll down Kashiya Yokocho (Candy Alley), a stone-paved street lined with about 20 shops offering traditional Japanese sweets, pickles, and local snacks, including treats made from Kawagoe's famous sweet potatoes. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of an Edo-era town and enjoy a step back in time!

Nestled in lush greenery, Mitsui Outlet Park Iruma is one of the largest outlet malls in the Kanto region. With around 200 shops, it offers a diverse range of stores, including apparel, sports and outdoor goods, furniture, home decor, and a variety of gourmet dining options. Celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2023, the outlet park continues to evolve with new stores opening and facilities like benches being renovated to create an even more comfortable shopping experience.

The Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel, also known as the "Underground Temple," is one of the world's largest underground flood control systems. Located approximately 50 meters (164 feet) below ground, it stretches about 6.3 kilometers (3.9 miles) from Kamikanasaki to Obuchi in Kasukabe City. Visitors can explore the stunning "Pressure-Control Water Tank," which resembles a grand underground temple. Recently, new areas such as maintenance corridors, pump rooms, and the gas turbine section have been opened to the public through guided tours (fees apply). This massive underground space offers a breathtaking, otherworldly experience. The solemn atmosphere of the gigantic chambers is sure to leave you in awe!

Yoshimi Hyakuana (literally "100 Holes of Yoshimi") is a fascinating historical site featuring numerous holes carved into a mountainside. These horizontal tombs were created during the late Kofun period and are now a designated National Historic Site since 1923. Currently, 219 tombs remain intact, showcasing Japan’s ancient burial practices.
Some of these tombs house Hikarigoke (luminous moss), a rare species designated as a National Natural Monument of Japan. Visitors can also enjoy a hands-on magatama (traditional Japanese bead) crafting experience at the on-site Archaeological Heritage Center (reservation required).
Note: Access to the underground wartime factory remains closed for inspection and safety reasons.
The unique site offers a mysterious and serene atmosphere, with a refreshing coolness even in summer. Come explore and feel the energy of this ancient site!

Nagatoro Iwatatami, a scenic spot created by the clear waters of the Arakawa River, is a designated National Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument of Japan. The iconic Iwadatami Rock, a unique geological formation stretching approximately 50 meters wide and 600 meters long, and the striking Chichibu Red Cliff, with its towering walls, make this location a "natural museum." Visitors can stroll across the Iwadatami Rock and experience a delightful riverboat ride, guided by skilled boatmen who share fascinating stories about the area. Additional activities include river play, camping, and enjoying the charming local shops with street food offerings!

Ranzan Valley is one of Saitama Prefecture's most iconic scenic spots. Featuring unique rock formations and the clear flow of the Tsukikawa River, surrounded by lush greenery, this destination offers stunning natural beauty. Its name derives from its resemblance to Kyoto's famous "Ranzan," giving it the nickname "Ranzan of Musashi Province." The scenery is particularly captivating during spring's cherry blossom season and autumn's vibrant foliage, where the colorful leaves reflect beautifully on the clear streams. It's an ideal spot for outdoor activities, including BBQs in the summer and breathtaking autumn foliage viewing. Surrounded by majestic nature, it’s the perfect place to refresh your mind and body.

The Omiya Bonsai Art Museum is the world’s first public bonsai museum, located in the renowned bonsai hub of Omiya Bonsai Village. This village was established in 1925 when bonsai craftsmen and nursery workers relocated from Tokyo after the Great Kanto Earthquake. At its peak, the village housed around 30 bonsai gardens and remains a sacred destination for bonsai enthusiasts worldwide. The museum showcases a wide array of exquisite bonsai trees and offers both a collection gallery and a bonsai garden. It has become a popular destination for international bonsai fans.

Locally known as "Tsuki-no-Miya," Tsuki Shrine (Tsukijinja) is a unique and beloved shrine in Saitama City. Unlike most shrines in Japan, it has no traditional torii gate and features rabbit statues instead of guardian lion-dogs. Everything here celebrates rabbits, from the purification fountain to the shrine buildings and even the temple stamps. As a result, it has become a popular destination for rabbit enthusiasts and those seeking spiritual energy. The name "Tsuki" (meaning "luck" or "moon" in Japanese) also makes this shrine a renowned spot for those hoping to succeed in competitive endeavors. The local soccer team, Urawa Reds, visits the shrine every New Year to pray for victory in the upcoming season.

Oshi Castle, originally constructed in the early Muromachi period (around the Bunmei era), is a historic landmark known for its resilience. It famously withstood Ishida Mitsunari's flood attack in 1590 (Tensho 18) and is considered one of the "Seven Famous Castles of Kanto." This impressive castle is steeped in history and romantic tales of the past. It also served as the setting for the movie "Nobou no Shiro".

Spanning across Kumagaya City and Namegawa Town in Saitama Prefecture, the Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park is a massive national park known for its lush nature and fun-filled activities. The park covers an area 65 times the size of Tokyo Dome, offering attractions for all ages, such as Japan’s largest air trampoline and adventure playgrounds. Visitors can immerse themselves in beautiful natural landscapes, including forests and ponds, and enjoy seasonal flowers in bloom at the sports plaza and urban greenery botanical garden. The park also features a variety of facilities, including restaurants, BBQ areas, and tent sites, making it perfect for families. Children will especially love the extensive adventure playgrounds, and the peaceful forest atmosphere is ideal for a relaxing nature walk.

Shibazakura Hill, located in Hitsujiyama Park, offers breathtaking views of the Chichibu cityscape and is renowned as a top spot for moss phlox (shibazakura). Spanning approximately 17,600 square meters, the hillside blooms with over 400,000 moss phlox plants from 10 different varieties, creating a stunning floral carpet every year from mid-April to early May. Visitors can also enjoy the "Fureai Farm," where friendly sheep roam freely, making this a perfect destination to relax and immerse yourself in nature. This iconic spring destination in Chichibu gained massive popularity thanks to its photogenic charm shared widely on social media.

Gongendo Park is one of the most famous cherry blossom spots in Saitama Prefecture, offering breathtaking views. Approximately 1,000 Somei-Yoshino cherry trees line a 1-kilometer-long embankment, creating a stunning cherry blossom tunnel. Adjacent to the embankment is a 50,000-square-meter field of bright yellow canola flowers, forming a mesmerizing contrast of pink and yellow. The park hosts the annual Cherry Blossom Festival from March to April, attracting visitors from all over. Beyond cherry blossoms, visitors can enjoy seasonal flowers such as hydrangeas in June, spider lilies in September, and daffodils in February. This scenic spot also appeared in the final scene of the Japanese movie Sakuran, making it a must-visit destination for flower enthusiasts and film fans alike.

Located midway up Mount Kami at an altitude of 500 meters, Jomine Park offers a unique experience for visitors with its stunning seasonal scenery. Renowned for its cherry blossoms in both spring and autumn, the park is especially famous for the rare "Winter Cherry Blossoms" (known locally as Juugatsuzakura), which bloom from late autumn to early winter. In mid to late November, visitors can marvel at the vibrant autumn leaves alongside the cherry blossoms, creating a breathtaking combination of colors rarely found anywhere else in Japan. Every year in late October, the Winter Cherry Blossom Festival is held, featuring enchanting light-up displays. The park also includes facilities like the Jomine Campground, a barbecue house, and a scenic viewing deck for visitors to enjoy.

Kodai Hasu no Sato, located in Gyoda City, Saitama Prefecture, is one of the most famous lotus flower spots in the Kanto region. The park features around 120,000 lotus plants of 42 different varieties, including the renowned Gyoda Lotus (Ancient Lotus). The flowers bloom in the morning from mid-June to early August, offering breathtaking views. From mid-July to mid-October, visitors can enjoy a bird's-eye view of the famous "Rice Field Art" from the observation deck of the Ancient Lotus Hall. From late November to early January, the park lights up with enchanting illuminations. The park also includes a water plant garden, a pond for waterfowl, a fishing pond, a peony garden, and a cherry blossom viewing area, making it a perfect spot to enjoy nature throughout the year. Known for its vast expanse and vibrant lotus flowers, the park is a must-visit. Gyoda's Rice Field Art is even recognized by the Guinness World Records!

Kinchakuda is a picturesque plain formed over many years by the meandering flow of the Koma River, a pristine stream running through Hidaka City. The area gets its name, "Kinchakuda," because the shape resembles a traditional Japanese drawstring bag ("kinchaku"). In spring, visitors can enjoy vibrant flowers and wild vegetables, while autumn brings a breathtaking carpet of red spider lilies (Manjushage), attracting numerous tourists from within and outside the prefecture. The area is well-equipped with walking paths, small forests, and open fields, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing stroll in nature. It is a particularly famous spot for viewing the red spider lilies, which create a truly mesmerizing sight.

Seibu-en Amusement Park reopened in May 2021 with the concept of creating a world where visitors can feel "heartwarming happiness." Step back in time to the retro vibes of the "Sunset Hill Shopping Street", featuring 30 unique stores and lively performances by costumed street actors. Thrill-seekers shouldn't miss the "Godzilla The Ride: Great Monster Showdown", an exhilarating ride attraction. Fans of the popular Japanese anime and children's novel series "The Mysterious Candy Store Zenitendo" can immerse themselves in a magical, story-driven experience. In early summer 2023, the park introduced a new highlight: the "Ultraman The Ride", a large-scale attraction based on the legendary superhero series. For a unique dining experience, gather your friends and family to enjoy the immersive "Mystery Train Restaurant", where you become part of a dramatic storyline.

Tove Jansson Akebono Children's Forest Park, inspired by Nordic landscapes and the magical world of Moomin Valley, is affectionately known as "Moomin Park." Surrounded by lush nature, the park offers an unstructured environment where visitors can freely explore ponds, streams, and open spaces. Play leaders are available to provide guidance on fun activities. Highlights include the whimsical "Mushroom House," the "Forest House" with a library corner, and "Café Puisto," which serves light meals and drinks. The park offers a tranquil space for both adults and children, perfect for relaxing after enjoying the nearby Metsa Village.

Tobu Zoo Park is a vast hybrid leisure destination combining an amusement park, a zoo, and a water park. The zoo features over 120 species and approximately 1,200 animals, including the rare and majestic white tiger. Visitors can enjoy interactive experiences like feeding the animals. The amusement park offers a variety of attractions, from thrilling water coasters to family-friendly rides. During summer, the Tobu Super Pool adds even more fun to this all-in-one leisure spot.

Nestled in a gentle hilly area, this family-friendly zoo is perfect for children to interact with animals while having fun and learning. Home to around 180 species, you can meet popular animals like koalas, penguins, giraffes, red pandas, and capybaras. The hands-on areas include the "Friendly Corner," where visitors can pet rabbits and guinea pigs, and the Pony Riding Corner, where you can also feed ponies and goats. The vast grounds feature an adventure playground and an indoor play area called Kodomo no Shiro (International Children’s Memorial Hall), ensuring fun for the whole day. In February 2024, a baby quokka—a species known as the "happiest animal in the world"—poked its head out of its mother’s pouch, and was named "Mia." Don’t miss the adorable, smiling quokka during your visit!

Located in Hanyu City, the Saitama Aquarium (Hanyu Suigo Park) is a fascinating spot where visitors can see about 70 species of freshwater creatures, mainly from the Arakawa River in Saitama Prefecture. The aquarium features unique exhibits, including nationally designated natural treasures like the Miyako Tanago (Tokyo Bitterling), Musashi Tomiyo (Musashi Stickleback), and the carnivorous plant Mujinamo (Aldrovanda). There’s also a collection of tropical fish from around the world. Don’t miss the Otter Stream, where adorable Asian Small-Clawed Otters play in the water, offering a chance to observe them from various angles as they swim and frolic in their naturalistic habitat.

The Railway Museum is one of Japan’s premier railway museums, offering an engaging experience for all visitors. With a focus on "Railways," "History," and "Education," the museum showcases the significance of railways in Japan, the evolution of railway technology, and its impact on society in an interactive and enjoyable way. Highlights include life-size train cars displayed in recreated historical settings, Japan’s largest railway diorama, and a hands-on simulator featuring the control panel of Japan’s first "D51" steam locomotive. Whether you're a railway enthusiast or not, this is a must-visit destination where you can easily spend the whole day.

Tokorozawa Aviation Memorial Park is a prefectural park built on the site of Japan's first airfield, Tokorozawa Airfield, also known as the "Birthplace of Japanese Aviation." The park features the Tokorozawa Aviation Museum, where visitors can see actual aircraft, including Japan's first domestically produced military aircraft, the Kaishiki No. 1. The museum also offers immersive experiences, such as a large-format movie theater showcasing thrilling aviation footage and hands-on workshops like airplane model-making, which are popular with both adults and children. The park itself is spacious, lush with greenery, and equipped with extensive sports facilities.