Last Updated: 15/05/2023
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 Edo” 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!
Family-Friendly Kayaking Experience in Nagatoro!
Nagatoro, Saitama
2. 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!
Challenge Your Friends in an Exciting and Thrilling Survival Game in Saitama!
Hanno, Saitama
Get the Thrills and Excitement in a Night Airsoft Game Battle in Saitama!
Hanno, Saitama
3. 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!
Night Glamping Experience and an Exciting Hot Air Balloon Flight During Sunrise in Saitama
Kazo, Saitama
Relish The Superb Nature Views at an Altitude of 1000m with Free-Flight Hot Air Balloon Experience!
Kazo, Saitama
4. 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!
Challenge Yourself and Your Friend with Speedy Adrenaline-Inducing Go-Karting Race
Chichibu, Saitama
Feel Like a Formula 1 Racer in a Go-Kart Race
Chichibu, Saitama
Race Your Friends in an Exciting Go-Karting Experience in Saitama
Chichibu, Saitama
5. 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!
Let's Go Around a Park Rich in Wonderful Nature Sceneries: Guided Segway Tour at Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park
Namegawa, Saitama
6. 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!
7. 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!
Experience Making Soba Noodles in Saitama!
Kawagoe City, Saitama Prefecture
Enjoy learning and eating soba noodles in Saitama!
Kawagoe City, Saitama Prefecture
8. An adventure for thrill-seekers: Chichibu Geogravity Park
Chichibu Geogravity Park is an exhilarating park that's located within a gorgeous canyon. When you visit, you'll be swinging across the canyon as you walk on a suspended bridge, with your adrenaline pumping and your heart racing!
9. Take part in a workshop to create silver accessories
Do you like to design and make silver accessories? This workshop offers you a wide range of products to make, including pendants, earrings, bracelets, keychains, etc. It's fun and easy! Plus, it's a special gift for your loved ones or yourself!
Handmade Silver Accessories Workshop
Kamiokubo, Sakura-ku, Saitama
10. Reconnect with nature and relax in style
Soak up the wild side in a Nordic style glamping tent featuring one or two days of glamping, a night sauna, and a decadent Scandinavian wild boar BBQ.
Experience the Nordic countries in Hanno surrounded by forests and rivers: Glamping accommodation (1 night 2 days, with night sauna)
Shimonaguri, Hanno City, Saitama
Experience the Nordic tents in Hanno surrounded by forests and rivers: One-day tent sauna charter plan
Shimonaguri, Hanno City, Saitama
11. Unlock porcelain pottery secrets in Saitama
Master the spins of the pottery wheel and unique hand kneading tactics to create beautiful glossy cups, dishes, and more! Additionally, have fun painting tableware to your preference!
Enjoy from beginner to advanced - Ceramic art experience
Kuki City, Saitama Prefecture
12. SUP in the most gorgeous river in Saitama
Nestled amidst ashen white cliffs adorned with tufts of green, the striking blue of the Nagatoro River provides a breathtaking backdrop for photographic sessions. Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of nature with our vibrant Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) tours along this remarkable waterway - it's a sight that's sure to leave you breathless!
SUP Lake Cruising Tour While Relaxing and Enjoying a Photogenic Beautiful Lake in Nagatoro! (Beginner-friendly course)
Nagatoro, Saitama
13. Lock horns with the Nagatoro river
Prepare yourself for an exhilarating ride through nature's own roller coaster as you weave your way along the ebbs and flows of the Nagatoro River. With a 7-kilometer course designed to gently guide you through the river's serene landscape, you'll also be treated to tranquil sightseeing moments whenever the waters calm.
White Water River Rafting: Paddle Against the Thrilling Torrents of Nagatoro River in Chichibu!
Nagatoro, Saitama
Join with Your Friends and Family and Go Down the Torrent and Water Splashes in a Rafting Adventure
Nagatoro, Saitama
Nagatoro Rafting Experience Surrounded by the Great Nature and Close to Saitama's Downtown
Nagatoro, Saitama
In conclusion, Saitama offers an abundance of attractions and activities that cater to every traveler's taste. From the adrenaline rush of river rides on the Nagatoro, the visual splendor of verdant cliffs, to the quieter, more introspective moments of sightseeing, this region is a trove of unique experiences. As you check off each item on your Saitama bucket list, you'll be drawn in by the magnetic charm of this diverse and vibrant area. So, pack your bags and immerse yourself in the unmissable adventures that await you in Saitama!
Frequently asked questions
QWhat can you do for fun in Saitama?
AThe home of traditional experiences and some of the best nature in Japan, there are many awesome things to do in Saitama:
• Hanno gun game
• Silver making workshops
• Kawagoe kimono sightseeing
• Watersports like water jump
QDoes Saitama have any good outdoor activities?
ASaitama owns the first-ever government-run national park, alongside many impressive plains, rivers, and mountains. Outdoor treasures in Saitama entail:
• Professional go-karting in Chichibu and Sakura
• Musashi Kyuryo segway in a beautiful park
• Nagatoro river rafting
• Nordic style glamping in Hanno
QCan families with kids still have a good time in Saitama?
AFrom 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
• Ceramic pottery workshops
QDoes Saitama have good animal cafes?
AAnimal 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!
QDoes Chichibu, Saitama have anything good to offer?
AWith 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!