Saitama prefecture is located in the Honshu region of Japan and makes up part of the greater Tokyo area. With many popular Saitama locations easily accessible by train from central Tokyo, it makes a great day trip.
Why should you visit Saitama prefecture?
Things to Do in Saitama: Visit Kawagoe
The town known as Saitama’s Little Edo Kawagoe should be the number one spot in Saitama prefecture to visit for anyone interested in Japanese culture. Known for its immaculately preserved Koedo area, this is a slice of history straight out of the Edo period.
The streets in Kawagoe are lined with traditional Kurazukuri buildings, and within these, you will find numerous teahouses, craft shops, art stalls, and souvenir shops.
Just as you would see in other cultural cities like Kyoto or Kurashiki, people like to wear traditional clothing when they visit Kawagoe. It’s a common sight to see people sampling the local street food wearing kimono or yukata.
The historic atmosphere makes Kawagoe one of the top destinations to visit in Saitama prefecture.
Things to Do in Saitama: Visit Omiya
Saitama city is the capital of Saitama prefecture, and Omiya ward is located within Saitama city. The ward has become known as the Shinjuku of Saitama thanks to its bustling atmosphere and shopping districts.
For those who want to escape to somewhere a little more serene, then you should try visiting Omiya’s bonsai village. This plant nursery is a great afternoon experience and another way to soak in the traditional Japanese culture, if only for an hour or so. Of course, if you want to get out into nature, you should visit Omiya Park.
Omiya Park is another of the top attractions in Saitama prefecture. Covering a gigantic 67 hectares, Omiya Park is one of the biggest open green spaces you are likely to find in greater Tokyo and Saitama prefecture.
As it is known for its cherry blossoms we recommend you visit Omiya park in the sakura season. It would be a fantastic place to experience Hanami.
Things to Do in Saitama: Visit Chichibu
Chichibu is another great place to visit when you rent apartment in Saitama. With only a short distance from central Tokyo, Chichibu is perfect for a day trip out of the big city.
Our number one destination in Chichibu is Hitsujiyama Park. Whilst Omiya Park was known for its cherry blossoms, this park is known for its blooming pink moss. This is a sight like no other in Japan, and it is a great alternate way to celebrate Hanami if you are looking for something other than sakura!
If you are looking for something to do this winter then you should visit the Misotsuchi icicles. This is another of Chichibu’s natural works of art. Visit at night to see the otherworldly scene lit up by colorful illuminations.
Moving to Saitama Prefecture
Living in Saitama is a great idea for people who want to experience Tokyo without having to pay for costly apartments.
Most commuting routes take only around half an hour from major Saitama locations to central Tokyo with some train fares being as little as 500 yen. If you are working in Tokyo but struggling to afford costly Tokyo rent, then you should consider moving to Saitama.
For example, from Shinjuku station, it takes only 35 minutes and costs only 480 yen to get to Omiya. To Kawagoe, it only takes 50 minutes, and in that time you will be taken from hectic city life to a peaceful cultural town.
Kawaguchi is another popular spot for commuters who want to experience Tokyo without having to pay for costly rental apartments. You can get to Shinjuku station from Kawaguchi in as little as 25 minutes by train and pay only 220 yen.
These cities in Saitama prefecture might be a great opportunity for those wanting to live in a city but also experience nature. Renting apartments north of Tokyo allows you to get out of the city and experience the beautiful Japanese mountains. There you will be able to find stunning views on hikes, or through cycling.
Living in Saitama
For all of your housing needs, you should visit the Village House website. There you will be able to find a listed Saitama apartment. Also, don’t hesitate to get in contact to help you rent apartments in Saitama.
Rental apartments in Saitama can be found here.
Of course, there are so many things to do in Saitama, whether you want to live there or visit. Saitama prefecture is now the fastest-growing prefecture in Japan. More and more people are seeing the potential in this great area.