
Close neighbor to Tokyo, Saitama is only 40 minutes away from the busy capital, providing nice getaways for the weekends or days off. The national government park of Musashi-Kyuryo puts Saitama in the headlines, presenting a gentle hill paradise of grasslands and flowers. Some of the best things to do in Saitama entail exploring the country 's first-ever state-run park by segway rides. It makes for nice family fun day outs, which you can also have with forest adventures and airsoft games in Hanno, involving casual warfare !
In past-era Japan, when space in Tokyo became scarce due to a bulging population, attention shifted to Kawagoe. The town is now famously known as "Little Tokyo"and contains remnants of a traditional side of Japan. Kimono tours around the ancient streets are one of the most popular things to do in Saitama. Other towns worth your while from the prefecture include Tokigawa, which is famed for its champagne-inclusive, hot air balloon rides! Okegawa is the place to be for washi papermaking, and Asaka dazzles with a cooking scene primarily known for its impressive soba noodles!
The things to do in Saitama cut across spirituality, cuisines, sightseeing, watersports, and cultural experiences, ensuring everyone can fit in when they visit on holiday!
1. An authentic Canadian kayak adventure in Japan

Stepping into Tamayodo lake instantly erases all stressful thoughts, filling your mind with refreshing tunes of trickling water and healing sights of turquoise. A Canadian kayak compounds the feeling!


2. SUP in the most gorgeous river in Saitama

Tucked between ashy white cliffs with hairs of green, the vivid blue of Nagatoro river stands out so beautifully in photo sessions. Nature colored SUP tours in the incredible stream will take your breath away!

3. Professional diving with eels and sea turtles in Soka and Tokorozawa

A whole new world of sea turtles, slithering eels, and coral treasures reside below the Saitama seascape. Take on pool diving and ocean certification courses in one of the world 's most diverse and beautiful seascapes!



4. Fishing for rainbow trout on a beautiful river in Chichibu

Earn your meal for the day, hunting down rainbow trout in Chichibu! You 'll get to learn the secrets and successes of proven techniques such as fly fishing. Enjoy grilled fish straight after with a barbecue!

5. Lock horns with the Nagatoro river

Get ready for the thrill of nature 's version of the roller coaster, as you bobble from side to side on the Nagatoro river. A 7-kilometer course ensures gentle sightseeing as well when the water lest up!



6. The best water jump thrills in Tokorozawa
Speed down a ramp on a skateboard and let gravity do the rest as you plummet into the water below. You 'll be begging for seconds before you even hit the water!


7. Forest adventure: A day of fitness atop trees

Exercise provides healing nourishment for the body; have tons of it in style with a Saitama forest adventure! Zip lines in a treetop playground ensure sightseeing and fitness!

8. Saitama survival game: Put your shooting skills to the test

Raid enemy hideouts and take part in epic shoot outs in search of victory in a survival game in Hanno! You can pose with your rifle of choice to commemorate your time in service!


9. Soar like an eagle above the paradisiacal nature of Tokigawa

The rustic town of Tokigawa dazzles from the sky, with its tiny cityscape merging beautifully in the lush plains around it. Fly above the small-town charm on a sleek paraglider!




10. A champagne toast in the sky over Kazo
Roaring flame powering your flight, hot air balloons are fascinating for their mechanisms and elevated sightseeing. Some tours include champagne to celebrate the scenery!


11. Go-karting on a professional racecourse

A world-class race circuit popular with racing bikes and cars, this circuit impresses with the sand-lined sunken layout. Go-karting is a joy on the scenic asphalt, with more options available in Chichibu and Sakura!



12. Segway getaway across fields of flowers

The first park governed by the state, Musashi-Kyuryo offers a nice segway retreat from the big city. Grasslands and ponds spread through the gentle hill, providing refugee to adorable animals and amazing plant life!

13. Bouldering in Saitama: Fun with colorful walls

On days when the weather is determined to keep you indoors, or when you want a new fitness challenge, consider bouldering in Okegawa city. Improve your grip, mental, and physical strength!

14. Saitama animal cafes: Fur-ntastic time with cats

Spending time with cats is proven to reduce anxiety and stress, making you happier! The planet 's proudest creature makes for great company when sipping on beverages at an animal cafe!
15. Kimono walks in the old town of Kawagoe

Dress in culture and explore the tradition around Kawagoe, affectionately- and fittingly- referred to as "Little Edo."This fully-fledged kimono tour includes all traditional accessories!

16. Still the mind with matcha tea

Are you down on your luck? A tea ceremony might turn your fortunes around. At the very least, the healing tea and rural sights are sure to clear your mind!

17. Make a wish before Fudo Myooh
Fudo Myooh is a revered Buddhist god who instills Buddha discipline through fear! Please do not be scared, though; it is said that he can grant your deepest wishes. Visit for a spiritual experience in Wako city!

18. Add to your self-defense skills with Saitama Aikido

Incorporating bits of judo and jujitsu techniques, Aikido classes in Kasukabe will teach the ways of martial arts self-defense. Learn how to get out of tricky situations and feel safer walking streets alone at night!

19. Master the ways of the Japanese paper

Traditional Japanese paper, or washi, entails special techniques passed down many generations. Get familiar with how to turn Kozo tree fibers into paper at a workshop in Ogawa!
20. Saitama 's cuisine at your fingertips

Be it turning flour into soba noodles or making nice and thick udon for delicious noodle soup, cooking tours in Kawagoe, and Asaka will offer tips behind tasty buckwheat foods!

Frequently asked questions
Q What can you do for fun in Saitama?
A The home of traditional experiences and some of the best nature in Japan, there are many awesome things to do in Saitama:
• Hanno gun game
• Bouldering in Okegawa
• Kawagoe kimono sightseeing
• Watersports like water jump
Q Does Saitama have any good outdoor activities?
A Saitama owns the first-ever government-run national park, alongside many impressive plains, rivers, and mountains. Outdoor treasures in Saitama entail:
• River fishing for rainbow trout
• Professional go-karting in Chichibu and Sakura
• Musashi Kyuryo segway in a beautiful park
• Nagatoro river rafting
• Tokugawa paragliding
Q Can families with kids still have a good time in Saitama?
A From animal lovers to adrenaline seekers, the things to do in Saitama include very many experiences for families with kids. You can all try out:
• Omiya cat cafe visits to spend time with friendly felines
• Forest adventures
• Kazo hot air balloon tours
• Okegawa bouldering
Q Does Saitama have good animal cafes?
A Animal cafes are an excellent way to let off some steam and pet cute animals. Saitama has excellent animal cafes you can try out, such as cat cafes in Kawagoe and Omiya, where coffee comes with the smiles of furry friends!
Q Does Chichibu, Saitama have anything good to offer?
A With natural blessings such as the Nagatoro river and Tamayodo lake, Chichibu is most popular for watersports, namely SUP, Canadian kayaking, and rafting. Beautiful cliffs merge with fantastic seascapes for surreal experiences in the undisturbed nature that characterizes the town and the prefecture!