October 27, 2025 | 02:59 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Vacationing in Japan doesn't always have to be about Tokyo, as the country is not lacking in interesting destinations to visit. One of them is the Saitama prefecture, a mere two-hour ride from Japan's capital.
Saitama prefecture presents an alternative destination amidst the rising hotel costs in Tokyo. Local tourism officials are now marketing Saitama as a viable and attractive option for those who want to stay outside the bustling city center of Tokyo, as reported by Travel and Tour World.
In addition, the Saitama Prefecture Product & Tourism Association has started offering curated travel plans to international tourists. These travel plans are designed to showcase the best things the region has to offer, while highlighting its convenience as a day trip destination from Tokyo.
Here are some interesting places to visit in Saitama:
1. Omiya Bonsai Village
One of the main attractions in this region is Omiya Bonsai Village, a village dedicated to the art of bonsai, as reported by Travel and Leisure Asia. With six gardens, each with its own unique style, visitors can enjoy the beauty of mini trees that are hundreds of years old and learn about their history in the local museum. Bonsai reflects patience and the balance of nature; visitors can also purchase bonsai seedlings to take home as souvenirs.
2. Kawagoe
Kawagoe, also known as "Little Edo," charms with its historical streets filled with black warehouses on Kurazukuri Street and the sweet aroma of Candy Alley. The ringing clock tower Toki no Kane adds a nostalgic atmosphere, while Hikawa Shrine and the ruins of Kawagoe Castle offer insights into Japan's past.
3. FlyStation Japan
For a modern thrill, FlyStation Japan in Saitama offers a safe and enjoyable indoor skydiving experience. With the assistance of English-speaking instructors, visitors of all ages can experience the sensation of free-falling in a wind tunnel.
4. Moomin Valley Park
Fans of the Finnish characters known as 'Moomin' must include this amusement park in their Saitama travel plans. Visitors can interact with immersive exhibitions, watch shows, explore scenes from Moomin books, and enjoy Moomin-themed food.
5. Chichibu Shrine
Chichibu Shrine, which is over 2,000 years old, features colorful wooden carvings and is the center of the Chichibu Night Festival held every December. The festival brings the streets to life with lanterns and traditional processions.
6. Railway Museum
Another equally fascinating place is the Railway Museum. For train enthusiasts, there are various classic and modern train models to see, interactive exhibitions, and a chance to learn about Japanese railway technology.
7. Tobu Zoo
Not only a zoo, this attraction doubles as an amusement park and water park. Here, you can see exotic animals such as white tigers, alpacas, giraffes, and penguins. There is also a spacious garden where visitors can admire various plant species, flowers, and fruit trees.
Saitama is also rich in local cuisine. Try grilled eel at Masuya, sweet potato manju at Imokoi, or wide udon noodles at Miyatake Sanuki Udon. For souvenirs, Kashiya Yokocho and the morning market at Chichibu Shrine offer washi paper, sake, and Chichibu Meisen fabric.
Putri Az zahra Suherman contributed to the writing of this article.
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