Saitama Prefecture is located north of Tokyo. This area is famous for its wide flower fields. The primrose, the prefecture's flower, can be found in Hitsujiyama Park every year from mid-April to early May. It is a magnificent scenery that's representative of Saitama.

Saitama offers wonderful sightseeing spots: a one-of-a-kind bonsai museum, the traditional streets of Kawagoe, and festivals unique to Saitama are just some of its highlights.

There are also unique experiences that you can only enjoy in Saitama. Whether it is rafting down the Nagatoro rapids, or getting some hands-on train driving and riding experience at the Railway Museum, there are many places where both children and adults can enjoy themselves.

After sightseeing, you can also sample delicious food as well. In the northern part of the prefecture, a nature-filled area, you can savor wild freshwater trout grown in crystal clear waters, and chill yourself with some kakigoori (shaved ice) sourced from naturally-frozen ice. Urawa, one of Saitama's urban areas located very close to Tokyo, is known for its streets filled with restaurants offering delectable unagi (freshwater eel) dishes.

Every city in Saitama boasts wide, very popular shopping outlets that offer all kinds of products. We highly recommend shopping in Saitama Prefecture.

After spending a satisfying day of sightseeing, you can stay overnight at a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) or at any of the easily-accessible hotels available; there are so many options that you will be spoiled for choice!

This special features introduces you to some of the highlights and wonderful sights of Saitama Prefecture.