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71 Available Tour Excursions in Saitama Prefecture
Our globally experienced, English-speaking Japanese female sushi chef will teach you the art of traditional sushi making in a 140-year-old historic building, now a beloved local cafe. Class Style: Hands-on Experience: you'll create your sushi under the guidance of our expert sushi chef. Can you replicate the Japanese sushi chef's skillful hand movements? What You'll Learn: Learn how to make perfect sushi rice that you can easily recreate at home. Cultural Insights: Did you know nigiri sushi was created in Japan 300 years ago? See the amazing staircase cabinets in our historic building, once a rice wholesale shop. The beautiful ceiling beams will take you back 100 years! Dietary Options: We cater to a vegetarian menu. Please inform us of any allergies in advance. We are unable to accommodate requests on the day of the class.
Price: $84.99
Duration: 1 hours
This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Kawagoe! Kawagoe was a prominent castle town in the Edo period and was known at that time as Ko-edo, or Little Edo (former name of Tokyo). About 30 minutes by train from central Tokyo, Kawagoe features many historical buildings, shrines and temples, and offers many regional food and drinks, as well as unique souvenir items. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a four-hour tour that's best for you! Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary. Note*2: National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.
Price: $109.55
Duration: 4 hours
Experience Japan in a Traditional Kimono at WARGO Step into Japanese culture by wearing a beautiful kimono and exploring the streets around any WARGO store nationwide. Capture stunning photos, create unforgettable memories, and fully immerse yourself in the timeless Japanese atmosphere. Choose from a wide range of kimonos, from classic traditional patterns to modern designs. Our experienced staff will assist you with dressing, ensuring a comfortable and authentic experience. Plus-size kimonos are available, so everyone can join in! Your package includes the kimono, sash belt (obi), Japanese clutch, sandals, and socks. Hairstyling is also available at an additional cost for those who want the complete look. The dressing process is quick—often under an hour—so you can set off on your adventure right away. Make your visit truly special by stepping out in style, exploring, and creating lasting memories at any WARGO store across Japan!
Price: $32.07
Duration: 1-6 hours
Gyoda City, Saitama Prefecture, located about one hour from central Tokyo, is the largest producer of Tabi Shoes in Japan and is recognized as a Japan Heritage site as “Gyoda, a town of Tabi Shoes warehouses that continues to support the footwear culture. In this tour, visitors will choose their favorite “Gyoda Tabi Shoes” and “Yukitadas” and actually walk around the town of Tabi Shoes warehouses with a guide to experience the kimono culture and enjoy the history and culture of “Gyoda Tabi Shoes” in the town of the most famous Tabi Shoes in Japan. Visitors will also enjoy the history and culture of Tabi Shoes and food culture by touring a Tabi Shoes warehouse and a Tabi Shoes factory, as well as local cuisine. Visitors can also enjoy the “Gyoda Hanahancozu”, where they can see beautiful flowers. We hope you will enjoy a special moment in the town of Tabi Shoes, a Japanese Heritage Site.
Price: $46.48
Duration: 3 hours
A clean room in a public facility just a 5-minute walk from the popular tourist spot Kawagoe's kura-zukuri district is the place to experience the program. You will finish a small Jizo, one of the most popular Japanese Buddhist statue sculptures, by wood carving. It is easy even for beginners as you only have to finish a half-finished piece up to rough carving. The instructor, who has 24 years of experience as an artist, will kindly and carefully instruct you how to hold and use a carving knife. There are two types of Jizo, a small one and a slightly larger one, but you can prepare your favorite one upon prior consultation if you wish.
Price: $66.40
Duration: 1 hours
Book your Private Arrival Transfer from Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT) to Tokyo downtown hotel or address. Don't go through all the hassle of waiting in a long taxi or shared shuttles queues and use our private, door to door airport transfer. Your driver will be waiting for you at a scheduled time and you will travel comfortably to your destination. • Meeting with a Nameplate • We track your Flight • Door-to-door Service • No Hidden Charges • Clean cars & Professional drivers
Price: $168.20
Duration: 1 hours
Enjoy a traditional green tea picking experience in Sayama, the birthplace of Sayama tea, one of Japan’s top three teas known for its rich flavor. Then take a relaxing walk through the historic streets of Kawagoe, often called “Little Edo” for its well-preserved Edo-period townscape. This seasonal day tour from May to November offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and history near Tokyo. ・Pick fresh green tea leaves in Sayama, famous for its deep-flavored tea ・Stroll through Kawagoe’s charming old town with traditional warehouse-style buildings ・Experience a unique mix of nature and Edo-era culture on this limited-time tour
Price: $132.79
Duration: 6 hours
Our sake brewery tour stands out with its focus on the traditional wooden barrel brewing technique, a rarity in modern sake production. You'll experience an exclusive 40-minute tasting session featuring unique sake varieties(Honey sake / Local tea sake / Germinated brown rice sake)not found in the market, each meticulously brewed in historic barrels. The tour is deepened by a cultural immersion, with tastings held in a traditional Japanese setting using local Hanno ware. A distinctive aspect is the pairing of sake with nuts seasoned in locally-made soy sauce from wooden barrels, offering a flavor experience unlike any other. Additionally, the opportunity to interact with the Toji, or Master Brewer, adds an educational dimension to the tour, providing insights into the art and science of sake brewing. To commemorate your visit, you'll receive a bespoke souvenir crafted from Nishikawa wood, capturing the essence of this unique and enriching journey through Japan's sake brewing heritage.
Price: $165.99
Duration: 2 hours
Just 78 minutes from Tokyo, enjoy a guided walking tour in Chichibu visiting historic pilgrimage temples. Walk through local streets and everyday scenery, explore unique Kannon temples known for healing beliefs, learn proper temple manners from your guide, and relax at a popular local coffee shop. Experience Japan’s peaceful, nostalgic atmosphere and discover a hidden side of the country — close to Tokyo, yet far from the ordinary. Please note: There are some areas where you will need to remove your shoes.
Price: $76.36
Duration: 3 hours
[Let's play handmade mini shamisen! Traditional music experience workshop] TOKYO SHAMI EXPERIENCE was newly launched last year as a spot where you can enjoy the shamisen more easily and fun! This reservation site has just started in 2020. A new two-hour workshop where everyone can handcraft a mini shamisen, play a few songs, and enjoy a live concert with tea! You can take the instruments you made home and play them at home. Musical instrument workshops that have been featured on TV, magazines, and on the Web. It is perfect for those who want to start a new instrument that people around them do not do much, or those who are interested in Japanese musical instruments but are unable to take a step because of the high threshold. Not only will you be able to play, but also from the history and explanation of the shamisen, everyone can create a shamisen kit and learn how it sounds. Please enjoy the special experience that can enter the world of deep Japanese! * Price with musical instrument
Price: $185.91
Duration: 2 hours
You can see the tatami production site with the guidance of tatami artisans. We can manufacture interior mini tatami mats (size 20 x 20 cm, thickness 20 ~ 30 mm). After the experience, there is also a tea break service on the edge of the tatami mat. If you wish, there are souvenirs
Price: $26.56
Duration: 1 hours
Saitama Prefecture, adjacent to Tokyo, offers a diverse options of experiences that cater to wellness and mindfulness enthusiasts and it's only an hour away from Tokyo. This unique offering takes you to Takedera in Hanno City, a distinctive temple where the harmonious blend of Shintoism and Buddhism converges with a vast bamboo forest. While immersing yourself in the tranquility of this spiritual sanctuary, meet your instructor, Mr. Aoyama, for a truly unique experience – learning the art of "suizen," or blowing Zen meditation. This practice is so rare that even many Japanese locals have never encountered it. Later, your wellness journey continues to the Kirari Spa Villa by Miyazawa Lake. As one of Saitama's most popular spas, this villa boasts an extensive variety of pools. Spend your afternoon at the spa villa before returning to the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. NOTE: Please note that tattoos are strictly prohibited at this particular spa facility.
Price: $209.15
Duration: 6 hours
Dive into the captivating world of sumo wrestling with this exclusive 4-hour Sumo Stable Morning Practice tour! Join a small group (maximum 16 people) led by an expert sumo guide for an intimate look at a real sumo stable’s morning practice. Equipped with audio headsets, you’ll gain insights into training rituals and techniques as you watch these incredible athletes train up-close. After the session, get unforgettable access – converse and share tea with the wrestlers themselves! To top it off, enjoy comfortable seating with ample legroom and savor a delicious Chanko nabe lunch. This immersive experience offers a unique glimpse into sumo culture, not to be missed!
Price: $138.77
Duration: 4 hours
This local, immersive food experience offers a warm and personal glimpse into Japanese culture, led by Risa, a passionate local guide who shares her culinary skills and family traditions. From making dashi from scratch to enjoying a homestyle meal in her cozy kitchen, this class feels like being welcomed into a Japanese home in Saitama, a 20-min train ride from Shinjuku station.
Price: $39.00
Duration: 3 hours
In Ogawamachi, one of the towns most active in organic farming in Japan, we will begin with a delightful walk along the river in the scenic countryside, followed by a hike in the mountains, descending into our managed forest. Here, we will enjoy some relaxing time and forest bathing. Lunch, featuring local organic vegetables, will be prepared for those who opt in. Lunch is optional
Price: $39.84
Duration: 3-4 hours
Escape the bustle of Tokyo and enjoy a relaxing day trip to Kawagoe, a beautifully preserved town known as “Little Edo.” This private walking tour offers the perfect mix of cultural exploration, local food, and authentic Japan just 30 minutes from Tokyo. Stroll through traditional Edo-style streets, visit the iconic Time Bell Tower, and explore Candy Alley, famous for its nostalgic treats. A highlight of your tour is the visit to Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, where you can experience the popular Tai-mikuji — a fun “sea bream fortune” you catch with a toy fishing rod! It’s a must-try experience that’s both charming and photogenic, often featured in travel blogs and Instagram posts. Perfect for travelers who want to discover authentic Japan beyond Tokyo in just half a day.
Price: $144.74
Duration: 6 hours
Nagatoro, Chichibu, Saitama, near the city center, is one of Japan's leading rafting mecca! You can enjoy rafting lively in the Nagatoro river filled with nature surrounded by mountains! 3 minutes walk from the nearest station, 2 minutes walk to the river with good access It is easy to participate. Free parking available when you come by car! Wetsuit rental for free according to the temperature and water temperature of the day You can enjoy a comfortable tour all season. After arrival, if you receive reception, change clothes, safety explanation Finally start! It is about 7 km downhill! Each boat comes with a trained professional guide Even the first person can participate with confidence. The 7 km journey with gradual speed is a place where the flow is gentle Get off the boat, jump and watch the natural monument rock pavement While floating, playing variously depending on the amount of water on the day Going down the river. In the torrent, according to the shout of the guide, Everyone will row hard to clear the current! By the time you score a goal, you will have a strange sense of unity in the boat High five with nature! During the tour, the guide will take a picture of the tour with a waterproof camera. Photo data from the homepage of Outdoor Center Nagatoro Free download OK! After the tour, drink a service drink If you can use the sightseeing consultation as a guide We will also tell you the recommended food shops and hot spring facilities of the guide!
Price: $39.84
Duration: 3 hours
Discover Kawagoe, a charming old town that once flourished as a castle town during the Edo period. Stroll through streets lined with beautifully designed buildings, hear the ringing of traditional bells, and experience the elegance of side alleys and backstreets where rickshaws still pass by. The unique architecture here blends elements from three different eras, Edo, Meiji, and Taisho, offering a rare glimpse into Japan’s rich history and culture that you won’t find in other cities. ・Explore Kawagoe’s historic streets, filled with traditional shops and timeless charm ・Enjoy the sights and sounds of a town where past and present harmoniously meet ・Experience the easy access from central Tokyo, just 30 minutes away, and visit a venue that hosted the golf competitions during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games
Price: $99.59
Duration: 4 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: JPY
- Languages: Japanese, English
- Climate: Humid Subtropical
- Timezone: Asia/Tokyo
- Population: Saitama Prefecture has a population of approximately 7.3 million people.
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit Saitama is during spring for cherry blossoms or autumn for the foliage.
- Visa Requirements Citizens of many countries, including the US, EU, and UK, can enter Japan visa-free for tourism purposes. The duration of stay varies depending on nationality, but typically ranges from 90 to 180 days. For longer stays or other purposes, a visa is required.
About Saitama Prefecture
Saitama Prefecture, located just north of Tokyo, offers a unique blend of urban and rural landscapes that make it an attractive destination for travelers. The prefecture is known for its vibrant cities, such as Saitama City and Kawaguchi, which provide easy access to Tokyo while offering their own distinct cultural experiences. Visitors can explore historical sites like the Kawagoe Castle Honmaru Goten, enjoy the natural beauty of the Chichibu Mountains, or experience the local festivals and markets. Saitama's proximity to Tokyo makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a quieter, more authentic Japanese experience without sacrificing access to the capital's amenities.
Saitama Prefecture Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Japan
- Duration Range: 2 to 10 hours
- Group Size: Intimate Groups
- Difficulty Level: Mixed Difficulty
- Recommended For: The best time to visit Saitama is during spring for cherry blossoms or autumn for the foliage. Visitors should pack layers for the changing weather and respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting temples or shrines. Cash is widely used, but credit cards are becoming more accepted. Learning basic Japanese phrases can enhance your experience.
Average Tour Price: $80
Lowest Price Tour: $50
Highest Price Tour: $180
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Top Attractions
1. **Kawagoe Castle Honmaru Goten**: Known for its well-preserved Edo-era architecture, this castle offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal past. 2. **Chichibu Shrine**: A historic Shinto shrine famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture. 3. **Hanno River**: Offers scenic views and opportunities for boating and fishing. 4. **Saitama Super Arena**: A major venue for concerts and sports events. 5. **Omiya Bonsai Village**: Renowned for its beautiful bonsai trees and tranquil atmosphere.
Popular Activities
Saitama Prefecture offers a variety of activities, from hiking in the Chichibu Mountains to exploring the local markets and festivals. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, visit the numerous museums, or participate in seasonal events like cherry blossom viewing in spring. For adventure seekers, there are opportunities for cycling and horseback riding in the countryside.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Saitama's cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh local ingredients, including sweet potatoes and Japanese peaches. Traditional dishes like sushi and ramen are popular, and visitors should also try local specialties such as "Saitama's peaches" and "Kawagoe's sweet potato sweets." Noteworthy restaurants often serve traditional Japanese fare with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
Getting Around
Saitama Prefecture is easily accessible by train from Tokyo. Local transportation includes buses and trains, making it convenient to get around without a car. For those who prefer driving, major car rental companies are available at airports and city centers. Costs vary depending on the mode of transportation, but trains are generally the most efficient and affordable option.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit Saitama is during spring for cherry blossoms or autumn for the foliage. Visitors should pack layers for the changing weather and respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting temples or shrines. Cash is widely used, but credit cards are becoming more accepted. Learning basic Japanese phrases can enhance your experience.
Culture & Customs
Saitama Prefecture is steeped in traditional Japanese culture, with many festivals and events throughout the year. Visitors should respect local customs by bowing upon greeting, using chopsticks correctly, and removing shoes when entering homes or traditional buildings. The Chichibu Night Festival is a significant event, showcasing traditional floats and performances.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..