Discover the best travel guides, tips, and experiences for Saitama
CHIKOZAN Park's Children's Zoo in Sayama City, Saitama, extends its hours until 9:00 PM on August 13, 14, and 15 for Night Zoo 2026, giving visitors a chance to see the animals' after-dark side alongside limited-time events and original merchandise.
A seven-day Curaprox pop-up shop is running on the 6th floor of Isetan Urawa store from August 12 to 18, 2026, featuring the brand's popular CS5460 toothbrush, toothpaste, and travel sets, with a dental hygienist on hand to offer advice.
GiGO's second crane game specialty store in Saitama Prefecture, "GiGO Crane Game Oasis Soka Seimon Plaza," opens August 7 at Soka Seimon Plaza with 213 crane game machines, everyday prizes, and original animal mascot characters.
From October 1 to November 30, 2026, Kawagoe Prince Hotel is offering a new overnight plan that comes with coffee tickets redeemable at 10 coffee shops around the city plus the hotel's own lobby lounge, part of a citywide push to spotlight Kawagoe's growing coffee culture.
On July 4, 2026, Seibuen Amusement Park closed to the public and opened exclusively for the Toshin Partners Team Ken's Cup Aquathlon, a swim-and-run race that's uncommon this close to central Tokyo. Racers competed through the park's pool and running course, with finishers receiving wooden medals instead of the usual metal ones.
Seibuen Amusement Park in Tokorozawa, Saitama has introduced a new air-conditioned rest spot called "Suzumi-dokoro" (Mobility House) that anyone can casually use to beat the heat, along with a full lineup of summer cooling content including a misty play area, splash shows, and a snow zone using real snow from Sayama Ski Area.
Chugoku Kappo Ryokan Kikusuitei in Tokorozawa, Saitama, is holding a one-night-only "Autumn Chef's Dinner" at its restaurant Tengaiten on September 26, 2026, featuring a Chinese cuisine tasting course built around premium seafood, with an optional wine free-flow and live piano performances.
Saitama Prefecture will host the Manhole Summit in Arakawa / Sewerage Festa 2026 at Arakawa Water Reclamation Center Rooftop Park in Toda City on October 17, combining the annual Arakawa Sewerage Festa with the nationwide Manhole Summit for the first time. Admission is free, with family-friendly activities such as a walk rally, a petting zoo, and a manhole card game tournament.
From August 8, Moominvalley Park in Hanno, Saitama, unveils new swimwear colors for Moomintroll and Snorkmaiden, while neighboring Metsä Village adds a lake fireworks display to metsä's Nordic Fireworks.
Rooftop BBQ restaurant DELTA+SKY at Omiya Rakuun is running a summer-only "cooling experience" fair, adding a frozen beer frappe, boozy shaved ice, house-made lemon sours, and sangria to its hands-free BBQ plans.
campass Omiya, a camp practice facility 7 minutes on foot from Omiya Station's west exit, is opening a free summer playground with a daytime Pool Plaza and an evening Fireworks Plaza for a limited time, along with new all-you-can-drink BBQ plans.
On November 3, 2026, Iwatsuki in Saitama City will host the 14th Castle Town Iwatsuki Falconry Parade, a historical procession reenacting Tokugawa Ieyasu's falconry visits to the area, and the organizing committee is now recruiting about 55 general participants — from fourth grade through seniors, regardless of nationality — with applications due August 21, 2026.
Saitama Prefecture's pear and grape season is underway, with local producers taking the most awards at Japan's National Pear Championship for three years running, plus the first-ever Saitama Morning-Picked Grape Festival at Omiya Station on August 29 and 30, 2026.
ArtGrace Wedding Chateau/Omiya Rikyuu, ArtGrace Wedding Coast Tokyo Bay, and Iseyama Hills are hosting a limited-time Summer Family Buffet and Kids Patissier Experience in August 2026, where children put on a chef's coat and hat to build their own tropical mini parfait alongside a seasonal buffet and festival-style games.
The Koshigaya Fireworks Festival, a summer tradition in Koshigaya City, Saitama Prefecture, was held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, drawing an estimated 250,000 visitors who watched fireworks launch from the embankment between Kasai Yosui (葛西用水) and the Moto-Arakawa River.
PUMA's "PUMA BASKETBALL INFORMATION" newsletter highlights two new basketball shoes launching in July 2026, plus a basketball camp for middle and high school students in Saitama that PUMA is sponsoring this August.
Bushu Kawagoe-ya, a Japanese culture teahouse offering udon meals, tea and sweets, artful interiors, a photo experience, and souvenirs, has opened along Taisho Roman Yume Dori in Kawagoe, Saitama, as a stop designed to fit easily into a day of sightseeing.
Starting Saturday, July 25, 2026, Metsä Village is opening a dedicated hand-held fireworks area that runs nightly through August 23, joining the ongoing "Metsä's Nordic Fireworks" and Moominvalley Park's "Moominvalley Lake Fireworks" as part of Metsä's summer lineup.
Ecute Omiya and Omiya North's second annual chili pepper fair runs July 21 to August 2, 2026, featuring 18 station-exclusive dishes made with 11 varieties of Saitama-grown chili pepper, including rare fresh domestic peppers and new chili-chocolate sweets.
The character crossover event "ICON SUMMIT," which drew more than 20,000 visitors last year, is being held this summer at two locations — JR Omiya Station and Abeno Q's Mall in Osaka — with pop-up shops for Pokémon Peaceful Place, Sylvanian Families, Pompompurin, Ponkickies, and more.
Kawagoe Prince Hotel will hold a 35th anniversary special show, Kinpare: What Do You Do with Rakugo and Painting?, on August 11, 2026, pairing illustrator Kin Shiotani's live drawing performance with rakugo storytelling by Tatekawa Harunosuke, alongside a pre-show lunch buffet at the hotel's Prince Hall.
Kawagoe Prince Hotel's Lobby Lounge will serve a limited-time menu inspired by the movie Minions & Monsters from July 17 to August 31, 2026, timed to the film's August 7 Japan release.
The seventh installment of the Suica's Penguin Bento series once again teams up with the long-selling Chicken Bento ekiben, launching a limited-quantity Chicken Nori Bento on July 24 alongside a matching cooler bag and an official X giveaway campaign.
From July 21 to September 13, children in middle school or younger accompanied by a guardian can play billiards free for up to two hours at BAGUS amusement locations across Tokyo, Kanagawa, Chiba, Saitama, and Nagoya.
The Nyanko Summer Festival, the first real-life event to bring together The Battle Cats, 『パズルで豊作！にゃんこ村』, and Nyanko Daishoten in one place, opens July 24, 2026, with festival games, character encounters, and a mall-wide stamp rally at three venues in Nagoya, Saitama, and Yokohama through late August.
Starting July 17, 2026, Iruma City is handing out collectible trading-card certificates at local shopping streets, lighting up streetlamps in the anime's signature blue, and putting up 15-character flags, alongside a discounted Seibu Railway outing ticket available through September 23.
Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine in Saitama Prefecture has installed a "Shrine Navita" digital signage system, offering multilingual guidance on the shrine's history, festivals, and worship etiquette for its growing number of visitors.
JR East Japan Urban Development is holding the 14th Musaura Ekimae Marché as a two-day night market at Musashi-Urawa Station on July 25 and 26, 2026, with workshops, general goods stalls, food trucks, and stage performances, plus part of the station's parking lot opened as a plaza for craft beer and food.
Saitama Children's Zoo is welcoming two new koalas, Arnold and Bubbles, from Queensland, Australia, marking 40 years since koalas first arrived at the park. A ceremony and public unveiling take place on August 22, 2026, followed by commemorative merchandise and events through Koala Day on October 25.
Starting July 16, 2026, the Japanese restaurant Shikisai on the 5th floor of Royal Pines Hotel Urawa is offering a weekday-night-only "Nagomi" set meal fair, with two shareable courses designed for couples and friends to enjoy together.
On Sunday, July 19, 2026, the day-use hot spring facility Ofuro Cafe Hakuju no Yu in Kamikawa, Saitama will host a cutting demonstration and free kabayaki tasting using domestic eel raised at a nearby land-based aquaculture farm, in collaboration with eel producer Hiranuma Suisan.
Bandai Namco Experience and Bandai Namco Amusement are opening a new Gashapon Department Store capsule toy specialty store with 270 vending machines at the Lalagarden Kasukabe shopping center in Kasukabe, Saitama Prefecture, on July 10, 2026 (Friday).
From July 10 to August 31, Sayama Ski Area in Tokorozawa, Saitama runs its ocean-themed water park daily as the "Super Water Fest," debuting a new Wide Slider and a snow-based Cool Area, plus a Sea Day on July 20 and extended hours for the Saitama Seibu Lions' Aofes 2026.
Chugoku Kappo Ryokan Kikusuitei in Tokorozawa, Saitama, will offer a moon-themed autumn experience from September 1 to November 30, 2026, featuring a special lodging plan, moon-inspired cuisine, a hinoki bath ball experience, and moon-themed wagashi.
From July 11 to 20, 2026, Chichibu Yumoto Buko Onsen in Yokoze Town, Saitama will host a series of events timed to the Chichibu Kawase Festival, including a welcome movie at the entrance, free ice candy for visiting children, and a festival-exclusive soft-serve ice cream.
A charming lineup of tableware and accessories featuring the Suica Penguin in a town Chinese restaurant theme goes on sale at TRAINIART stores from July 3, 2026, with regional designs for Tochigi and an exclusive Kanagawa set available online.
Seibu-en Amusement Park in Tokorozawa, Saitama is hosting "Gegege no Yuenchi Part 2," a second collaboration event with the anime film The Birth of Kitaro The Mystery of GeGeGe, running from July 17 to September 13, 2026. Featuring newly drawn visuals by the film's character designer Touko Yatabe, the event includes a mystery rally, carnival games, collaboration food, exclusive merchandise, and special recording-only voice performances.
MANDARAKE, the iconic subculture destination, opens its Omiya store on June 27, 2026, on the 8th floor of Omiya Raccoon, featuring a grand opening sale and exclusive collaboration merchandise.
BIO-RESORT HOTEL & SPA O Park OGOSE in Saitama is serving a special 5-course collaboration menu tied to the new Crayon Shin-chan movie "Spooky! My Yokai Vacation" at restaurant MORINIWA from July 3 to September 30, 2026.
A collaboration campaign between TV anime The Elusive Samurai and Gokurakuyu & RAKU SPA hot spring facilities will run from July 9 to August 4, 2026, at two locations in Wako and Yokohama, featuring themed baths, merchandise, collab menus, and a digital stamp rally.
The third annual choco mint fair at Ecute Omiya and Omiya North runs June 29 to July 20, 2026, featuring 42 products including 15 station-exclusive items and a digital stamp rally.
Chugoku Kappo Ryokan Kikusuitei in Tokorozawa, Saitama, is hosting a family-friendly summer stargazing night on August 7, 2026, featuring telescope crafting kits and guided star observation in partnership with optical maker Vixen.
The BONBON DROP seal POP UP STORE is hitting 10 cities across Japan from June 2026, bringing together approximately 200 types of BONBON DROP seals in what is the largest-ever pop-up event for the brand.
Saitama City is holding its annual Hanabi (fireworks) events at three venues and a lineup of summer festivals across the city throughout the summer and into autumn 2026.
GRANPHIL RESORTS TOBU, a glamping resort adjacent to Tobu Zoological Park in Shiraoka, Saitama, has launched four new seasonal plans for summer 2026, covering super pool access, private pool water play for kids and dogs, a family-friendly weekday discount, and a dog birthday package.
The warabimochi specialty shop near Iwatsuki Station in Saitama is relaunching on June 14 as "Torori," a new brand supervised by TV personality Shimada Takashi (known as "Shimayan" from Reiwa no Tora), featuring a redesigned logo, updated packaging, and seven customizable drink options.
goodyard, the company behind the teihaku one-building hotel brand in Chichibu, Saitama, has acquired a property near Seibu Chichibu Station to launch a standing bar-attached guesthouse aimed at young travelers and solo visitors.
Moominvalley Park in Hanno, Saitama, is hosting its popular annual summer event "Water Fun in Moominvalley" from July 3 to September 6, 2026, featuring new splash shows, a lake water play area, and park-wide mist experiences.
KAL Auto Garden, a dog-friendly campsite in Kumagaya, Saitama, will run a seasonal Summer Night Camp from July 1 to August 31, 2026, featuring around 100 mist nozzles spread across the grounds for a refreshingly drenched welcome for guests, children, and dogs alike.
Royal Pines Hotel Urawa is offering a limited 10-room stay plan with a dinner ticket for its Summer Family Buffet 2026 event on August 9, 2026, now on sale from June 8. The plan includes a Japanese/Chinese/Western buffet, tuna filleting show, kids chef experience, and breakfast.
On June 11, Moomin Valley Park celebrates Japan's "Umbrella Day" and the park's monthly "Hattifatteners Day" with a special photo prop set among peak-season hydrangeas. A rainy-day postcard giveaway and photo contest are also running through June 30.
Ofuro Cafe Hareniwa no Yu in Kumagaya, Saitama, is displaying teru teru bozu crafted from vinyl umbrellas that were set to be discarded, bringing a splash of color and cheer to the facility throughout the rainy season from June 8, 2026.
Nakahara Park in Sayama City, Saitama, hosts the annual Ajisai Matsuri on June 14, 2026, featuring taiko drumming, dance performances, food stalls, and a mini steam locomotive ride.
Korean café and donut brand BONTEMPS is rolling out 20 new drinks on June 12, including frappés, smoothies, and sodas in flavors such as matcha, earl grey, strawberry, and mango.
Starting June 16, 2026, the Pastry Shop La Mora on the first floor of Royal Pines Hotel Urawa in Saitama is serving its annual "Dolce Kakigori" — fluffy shaved ice made from pure Shinshu deep spring water ice, paired with seasonal ingredients.
The popular shaved ice at Kawagoe Prince Hotel's Japanese restaurant returns from July 2 to September 30, 2026, featuring three Saitama-inspired flavors made with Oku-Chichibu pure spring water ice, plus a new ¥800 half-size option for dining guests.
A limited-time pop-up store for the TV anime Yowamushi Pedal Limit Break is set to open at TSUTAYA LakeTown in Saitama on June 12, 2026, featuring newly drawn character visuals and exclusive novelty bookmarks for qualifying purchases.
The Lobby Lounge at Kawagoe Prince Hotel is serving a peach-themed afternoon tea set in a vivid pink and aqua blue color palette from July 1 to August 31, 2026.
Starting June 1, 2026, Ryusenji Temple (Saitama Yakuyoke Kaiun Daishi), the birthplace of the kirigami goshuin, is offering two summer-limited cut-paper votive seals — "So-kō" and "Song of the Summer Sky" — available until August 31, while supplies last.
Butter Butler's popular summer treat, the Butter Lemon Cake, is back for 2026 with a refined recipe. Made with New Zealand cultured butter and Setouchi lemon peel, it's available from June 1 at stores including NEWoMan Shinjuku, Lumine Shinjuku, and Ecute Edition Shibuya.
Iruma City, Seibu Railway, and the anime "Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun" have joined forces for the "DeviDevi Area Tour," bringing special station signage, illuminated shopping streets, character flags, and more planned activities to the Iruma-shi Station area.
KIDS FES in Saitama, a family-oriented experiential event, is set to take place on May 30 and 31, 2026 at Saitama Shintoshin Park. Admission is free, and the lineup includes hands-on workshops, a food area with over 10 vendors, a stamp rally, and live performers.
La Mora pastry shop at Royal Pines Hotel Urawa is selling a special Father's Day cake featuring bitter chocolate and caramel chocolate mousse, available for pickup June 16–21, 2026. Reservations open from May 27, and must be made at least 3 days in advance.
Cheese Garden is rolling out three limited-time café drinks under the "Mango Drinks" lineup from May 27, 2026, available at 14 locations across Japan through early July — each pairing cheese with mango and pineapple.
Starting June 1, 2026, Hokkaido Italian Mia Bocca locations across the Kanto region, Hokkaido, and Sendai will offer a summer-limited cold pasta featuring Hokkaido saltwater sea urchin, scallops, and salmon roe.
Ofurocafe Hareniwanoyu in Kumagaya, Saitama, is hosting a free uchiwa (Japanese fan) making workshop every Sunday in June 2026. Using a traditional washi paper dyeing technique called ori-zome, participants can craft their own colorful fans—ideal for beating the heat and enjoying the Kumagaya Uchiwa Festival.
Best Bridal is running a limited-time campaign tied to "Propose no Hi" (Proposal Day), the first Sunday of June. Couples who inquire between May 22 and June 30, 2026, and plan to propose by the end of August can receive a complimentary chapel decoration and a commemorative photo at participating venues.
The "Sky Lantern Marché" is set to make its first-ever appearance at Tokorozawa Sakura Town in Tokorozawa, Saitama, on June 27 (Sat.) and 28 (Sun.), 2026 — offering a day of local markets and food trucks, followed by the magical sight of 100 LED sky lanterns floating into the night sky.
The rose garden at Chikozan Park's Urban Greening Botanical Garden in Sayama City, Saitama, is reaching its spring peak bloom, with about 80 varieties and 700 rose bushes in vibrant color through mid-June.
A limited-time dessert buffet collaboration with Sanrio's Kuromi runs on select dates from June 13 to August 30, 2026, at Art Grace wedding halls in Yokohama, Omiya, Shin-Urayasu, Osaka, and Kyoto.
From July 1 to September 6, 2026, Kawagoe Prince Hotel is running a special summer stay plan featuring a nighttime rickshaw tour through the illuminated streets of historic Little Edo Kawagoe — exclusively for hotel guests.
Vendors from Numazu City will set up a stall at the "Hojo Food Battle" section of the 65th Yorii Hojo Festival in Saitama on May 10, 2026, offering dried fish and horse mackerel fry.
Ofuro Cafe Utatane in Saitama City is hosting a Sayama Tea Fair from May 1 to June 30, 2026, featuring a Sayama tea bath, special sauna events, and a lineup of creative cafe dishes made with locally grown Sayama tea.
Sayama City Museum in Saitama Prefecture is hosting a spring exhibition tracing the history of sweets in Sayama through its collection. The exhibition runs until May 17, 2026, and is accompanied by related events, a limited-edition original chocolate, and a café serving ancient-recipe-inspired menu items.
Celebrating its 100th anniversary, Ginza Aster has reopened the Kawaguchi Hikan location on April 1, 2026, after a major interior renovation that refreshed the dining space while preserving its longstanding elegance.
A craft fruit butter sandwich shop opens inside JR Omiya Station on May 8, 2026, offering an Ecute Omiya-exclusive creation made with premium Saitama "amarin" strawberries, alongside baked cakes and classic butter sandwiches.
The Tanabata Sky Lantern Festival 2026 will take place at two venues—Saitama (July 17–23) and Kyoto (August 7–16)—with up to 3,500 LED sky lanterns lighting up the night sky each evening.
The an-butter sweets specialty shop Okada Kinsei Anbataya is releasing a new seasonal treat, "Anbutapan Lemon," starting May 1, 2026. The product pairs red bean paste made with rare Erimo azuki beans from Chitose, Hokkaido, with a fragrant lemon paste using Setoda lemons.
To mark Moomin Day on August 9 — the birthday of creator Tove Jansson — a limited tote bag giveaway campaign will launch from July 1, 2026, and a special fan club event is planned in the greater Tokyo area.
Starting May 18, 2026, a limited-edition digital travel pass goes on sale, bundling Seibu Railway all-day access, bus transfers to metsä, a Moominvalley Park day pass, and a local shopping coupon for Hanno City stores.
Seibuen Amusement Park in Tokorozawa, Saitama, will hold the Spring Rose Festival 2026 from May 9 to June 14, 2026, with special Licca-chan photo spots, collaboration food, and a variety of rose-themed events.
Starting April 21, 2026, Hanno Station is decorated with colorful umbrellas tied to the "Moomin Valley and Umbrella 2026" event at Moominvalley Park, with the display planned to run through early September.
During Golden Week 2026, Sayama City hosts two beloved annual events in memory of Minamoto no Yoshitaka — a koinobori display at the Iruma River and a 24 km historical walk — commemorating the young warrior whose tragic story has moved taiga drama fans across Japan.
A large-scale capsule toy specialty store, Gashapon Department Store in Bookstore, has opened inside TSUTAYA Minamifuruya in Kawagoe, Saitama, on April 24, 2026, featuring 400 vending machines and an extensive product lineup.
Iceland poppies (approx. 700,000 plants) and nemophila (approx. 530,000 plants) are currently at their peak at Musashi Kyūryō National Government Park in Saitama, with blooms expected to last through late April and into early May.
Starting April 24, 2026, a limited-time "Amarin COLLECTION" fair spotlighting the rare Saitama-grown strawberry will be held simultaneously at 1110 CAFE/BAKERY in Kawaguchi and BROOKS GREENLIT CAFE in Minami-Aoyama.
A special day-trip pilgrimage tour marking the rare Chichibu Uma-doshi So-kaido is set for May 17, 2026, departing from Seibu Chichibu Station, with ordained monks leading participants through the region's sacred sites.
metsä Village in Hanno City, Saitama, will host the metsä Midsummer Festival 2026 from May 23 to June 21, 2026, celebrating the Nordic summer solstice tradition with a craft beer event, a lakeside Nordic market, midsummer bonfires, and a flower wreath-lined entrance road.
Japan's largest free product sampling service is opening its third physical store — and first in Saitama Prefecture — at Ario Kawaguchi shopping center on April 27, 2026.
The Maple Mania is heading to ecute Omiya (April 20–May 6) and ecute Shinagawa (April 23–May 10) for limited-time Golden Week pop-ups, featuring the award-winning Maple Butter Cookie and two event-exclusive maple and rum sweets.
Starting Saturday, May 2, 2026, the tempura restaurant "Arakawa" on the 5th floor of Royal Pines Hotel Urawa moves its weekend and holiday dinner start time earlier to 5:30 PM.
Floating Algae "FUYUSO," an aqua interior product developed through seaweed cultivation technology, is now available at Aqua Park Kawagoe in Kawagoe City, Saitama Prefecture.
Three venues in the Kanto region are offering a limited-time afternoon tea featuring matcha from Kyoto's Gion Tsujiri and sweets inspired by early-summer hydrangeas, available from mid-May through late June 2026.
A two-day spring farming experience event is coming to Wakuwaku Farm inside Musashino Mura amusement park in Kazo City, Saitama, on May 23–24, 2026.
A special exhibition exploring 120 years of stop-motion animation history and behind-the-scenes production secrets opens at SKIPCity's Video Museum in Kawaguchi, Saitama, from May 2 to September 27, 2026.
From April 20 to May 7, 2026, KURAND's popular "Sake Gacha" pop-up store is coming to ecute Omiya, where visitors can try their luck at winning premium sake bottles worth up to ¥110,000.
Kazo City, known as the "town of koinobori," is selling original hand-towel (tenugui) designs drawn by the late Takashi Hashimoto, a third-generation master craftsman at the prefecture's only handmade koinobori manufacturer. Four designs are available at ¥500 each.
Seibuen Amusement Park in Tokorozawa, Saitama is hosting a collaboration event with the beloved dress-up doll Licca-chan from April 28 to July 16, 2026. Guests can enjoy stamp rallies, photo spots, collaboration menus, exclusive merchandise, and more.
Toriikuguri, a Japanese izakaya known for Kyoto-style oden and seasonal tempura, has added a new chicken broth oden made from domestic chicken carcasses simmered for four hours, now available as part of a seasonal course menu starting April 2, 2026.
Cinagro is introducing two new additions to its popular calzone lineup — Homemade Bacon & Corn with Tomato Cream Sauce and Homemade Genovese with Cream Cheese — available at department store food halls and Bio c' Bon stores from April 1.
From May 7 to June 30, 2026, Kawagoe Prince Hotel's Lobby Lounge is hosting a special matcha afternoon tea set featuring matcha from Gion Tsujiri, a Kyoto tea brand with 160 years of history.
Kazo Miraikan in Saitama is hosting the "Koinobori Aquarium," where the building's iconic glass wall transforms into a giant tank filled with colorful koinobori. A koinobori-making workshop led by the artisan community "Koishikai" is also scheduled for April 4th and 5th.
Sayama Ski Area in Tokorozawa, Saitama is transforming into an ocean-themed indoor water park from April 25 to September 27, 2026, featuring upgraded attractions including a new Turtle Slider, Water Fireworks, and a packed lineup of Golden Week special events.
SKIPシティ's Eizo Museum in Kawaguchi, Saitama is hosting a special exhibition exploring the history and behind-the-scenes world of stop-motion animation, running from May 2 to September 27, 2026.
Beer Garden Miami at Takashimaya Omiya, part of a rooftop beer garden tradition dating back to 1963, launches its 2026 season on April 17 with over 100 all-you-can-eat-and-drink options, daily stage events, and new taco and salad bar.
New merchandise featuring original illustrations from Love Live! Nijigasaki High School Idol Club is available exclusively at BIC Camera Group stores and Animega x Sofmap locations from March 25 to April 12, 2026.
A special 12-day exhibition bringing together traditional crafts and handwork from across Japan is held at Sogo Omiya Store's 7th floor event hall from March 26 to April 6, 2026.
A brand-new cream puff concept from the makers of Beard Papa is popping up exclusively at Ecute Omiya from March 30 to April 12, 2026.
Four new Suica Penguin regional character goods inspired by local traditions in Iwate, Miyagi, and Saitama go on sale from March 27, 2026 at TRAINIART stores and online.
The Art Aquarium Exhibition Saitama Super Arena 2026 opens at the Saitama Super Arena Exhibition Hall on March 25, marking the first time this goldfish art event comes to Saitama Prefecture.
Butter Butler's popular seasonal treat returns to stores on March 27, 2026, combining fermented butter and Uji matcha in a refined financier.
A city-inspired scent named "Urban Garden," selected by citizen vote, will be used for spatial presentation at the Art Aquarium exhibition held at Saitama Super Arena from March 25 to May 10, 2026—the first time a designated city's original fragrance features in a large-scale cultural event.
The Koedo Kawagoe Spring Festival begins on March 28, turning the historic Ichibangai shopping street into a lively Edo-period town. Shopkeepers dress in period costume, and cherry blossoms frame the festivities throughout the city.
The 49th Iwatsuki Castle Ruins Park Cherry Blossom Festival takes place on Saturday, March 28, featuring koto performances, a flea market, food stalls, and free guided tours at one of Saitama's premier cherry blossom viewing spots.
A seasonal Italian buffet "Primavera" runs from March 18 to May 25, 2026, at Terrace Dining Michela on the 1st floor of Royal Pines Hotel Urawa, featuring freshly baked pizza, pasta, acqua pazza, caprese, and a variety of Italian regional dishes.
Seibuen Amusement Park in Tokorozawa, Saitama is set to open a brand-new family area called "Wanpaku Republic" in summer 2026, featuring a 14-meter nostalgic toy sculpture and a 40-meter roller slider.
CANDY SPIN, a fully automated colorful cotton candy vending machine, has made its debut at Aeon Mall Urawa Misono in Saitama City as of March 13. With 24 design options and 4 flavors for ¥500, it offers a fun new stop for shoppers of all ages.
A community-based sustainable market event, "COMMONs MARKET KAWAGUCHI 2026 SPRING," will take place at OKS CAMPUS in Kawaguchi, Saitama on April 12, 2026. The free admission event features a children-only flea market, organic farming workshops, KOMBUCHA brewing sessions, and a farmers and craft market with around 25 vendors.
A one-day special Seibu Railway express "Laview" KAWAII TRAIN run is planned for May 16, connecting Ikebukuro to the KAWAIITOPIA -GO TO HEAVEN (HELL)- exhibition by artist Sebastian Masuda at HYPER MUSEUM HANNO in Metsa Village, Hanno.
Four Saitama golf courses are offering cherry blossom-themed events, course maps, and seasonal restaurant menus through mid-April 2026 — a perfect way to enjoy spring while playing a round.
Specialty caramel sweets shop CARAMER is holding a limited-time pop-up at Takashimaya Omiya from March 5 to 17, 2026, featuring the brand-new Caramar Sand Hazelnut Cafe alongside its most popular treats.
The beloved spring limited menu at J.S. PANCAKE CAFE is returning, featuring Amaou strawberries layered into a mille-feuille pancake. Available from March 12 through early May at locations across Japan.
Ofuro Café Hareniwa no Yu in Kumagaya, Saitama, is dedicating all of March 2026 to sauna, with special aufguss performances, post-bath dashi broth service, a sauna lottery, cherry blossom aroma röyly, and new dryers in the women's changing room.
The Omiya Takigi-Noh, a beloved traditional performing arts event held on the grounds of Musashi Ichinomiya Hikawa Shrine in Saitama, reaches its 45th anniversary this year. Featuring Noh performances by the Hosho and Konparu schools alongside Kyogen by the Izumi school, the two-night event will welcome popular performers Nomura Mansaku and Nomura Mansai.
A limited-time "Matcha and Sakura Afternoon Tea with Gion Tsujiri" is available at two restaurants in the Kanto region from April 1 to May 11, 2026, featuring rich matcha confections and spring-inspired flavors with seasonal strawberries.
For two days only in late March 2026, the riverside resort COMORIVER in Tokigawa Town, Saitama, is hosting a special cherry blossom sauna festival with four types of saunas, a river slide, and seven unique spring activities.
Italian & Wine Bar CONA is hosting "Ohanami Bar 2026" from March 1 to April 30, 2026, where guests can enjoy full-bloom cherry blossom décor indoors alongside 5 spring-limited dishes featuring strawberries and cherry blossoms.
Kodomo Fukka Park (Fukaya City Children's Center), one of the largest indoor play facilities in Saitama Prefecture, opens in Fukaya City on April 1, 2026. Spanning approximately 3,200 m², the facility offers a wide range of play and learning experiences for children aged 0 to 18.
Starting April 1, 2026, the Moomin Special Room Stay plan at Shinjuku Prince Hotel and Kawagoe Prince Hotel adds exclusive Moominvalley Park logo pancakes to the breakfast buffet, along with themed rooms featuring Moomin plush toys and a Moominvalley Park 1-Day Pass voucher.
Ofuro Cafe Utatane in Saitama City is running its spring "Sakura Cafe" event, complete with an indoor cherry blossom lounge for hay fever-friendly hanami, a seasonal sakura mud pack, and a limited cafe menu featuring Amarin, a celebrated Saitama-grown strawberry.
Ofuro cafe utatane in Saitama City is hosting a one-day sauna festival on March 7, 2026 — Sauna Day — packed with aufguss sessions, a sauna musical, live music, food, bingo, and workshops for both sauna lovers and newcomers alike.
A new CHUMS store opens at COCOON CITY in Saitama Shin-Toshin on March 27, 2026, featuring classic American design inspired by the original Utah store and exclusive Saitama collaborations.
The contemporary art museum in Hanno, Saitama celebrates its first anniversary with a major exhibition by Sebastian Masuda, pioneer of Japan's KAWAII pop culture. Running from March 14 to August 30, 2026.
The Royal Pines Hotel Urawa pastry shop La Mora will offer a special Hinamatsuri cake from February 28 to March 3, 2026. Reservations open February 17.
Marumaru Higashinihon in Saitama City hosts a special fair featuring specialty products from Nyuzen Town, Toyama Prefecture, including steamed oysters prepared with deep seawater and fresh-cut tulips. The event takes place on February 14-15, 2026.
Asuiku Inc. launches a special collaboration with Tobu Group featuring private chartered Limited Express Revaty and Limited Express RYOMO trains, combining station work experience (Eki-iku) and zoo exploration (Explore) programs in a first-of-its-kind simultaneous event.
On March 1, 2026, violinist Ryoma and artists performing live music inside the Immersive Digital Art Theater Ukiyo-e RE:BORN - The Spirit of Edo and Timeless Japonism venue for a special one-night concert event.
A unique marketplace featuring unclaimed lost items opens for one day at AEON Mall Kawaguchi. Shop sustainable bargains from ¥100 while supporting environmental and social causes.
A new culinary landmark in Kawagoe offers chef Mitsumasa Kadohira's signature dishes. The "Bushu Kawagoe Ju" features luxurious roast beef made from local brand Bushu Wagyu beef, while the "Kameya x ECCOLA Dorayaki Gelato" combines seven flavors of Saitama ingredients, creating unforgettable tastes unique to Kawagoe.
The rice porridge and noodle specialty restaurant is launching a spicy numbing mala tang dish from February 6 through late March at select locations, featuring customizable noodle options and warming spices.
British lifestyle brand Cath Kidston introduces a new spring collection featuring nostalgic floral art with cotton lace details and frilly accessories, available at stores and online starting February 6th.
From March to April 2026, thirteen restaurants and hotels across Japan will offer special spring-themed afternoon tea featuring strawberries and cherry blossoms, celebrating the season with elegant sweets and savory dishes.
E-VENT Inc. presents Dai Yankee Exhibition, an immersive experience celebrating Japan's Yankee subculture from the Showa to early Heisei era, with exclusive collaborations featuring Heidi, Girl of the Alps and Nameneko. The event runs February 6–15, 2026, at Omiya Marui's 7th floor event space.
From January 26 to March 1, 2026, Aloha Table restaurants across Japan are serving special menu items inspired by Yakuza Kiwami 3 and Yakuza 3 Gaiden Dark Ties. The collaboration features dishes that appear in the game, including SPAM-topped hamburgers and curry, plus an exclusive SNS campaign with prizes.
A new entertainment corner opens at Mirai Shoten Laketown, featuring over 1,000 items of popular game merchandise, including 500 Honkai Star Rail products. Exclusive photo opportunities with life-sized character panels are also available.
The Railway Museum in Saitama will host its 12th Night Adult Teppaku event on February 14, 2026. Enjoy the museum after hours with special lighting, guided tours, and exclusive access to normally closed areas.
From March 13 to April 12, 2026, Kawagoe Prince Hotel offers a special package combining early morning rickshaw tours through historic Kawagoe's cherry blossom spots, seasonal kaiseki dining, and mindfulness meditation experiences.
Starting January 30, 2026, special collaboration merchandise featuring Princess Connect! Re:Dive will be available online and at 10 major Village Vanguard stores across Japan, including new character designs.
Experience the sweetness of Fukaya's famous negi (Japanese green onions) at the Wodokai Negi Festival on February 7, 2026. Harvest vegetables, enjoy charcoal-grilled negi, and interact with local producers at this unique agricultural event in Saitama.
LOVOT, the family-type robot, is appearing at six ISETAN MiRROR Make & Cosmetics stores across Japan. Customers who spend ¥3,300 or more can receive special stickers featuring unique designs at each location.
KADOKAWA celebrates the manga magazine ASUKA's 40th anniversary milestone with an exhibition at Tokorozawa Sakura Town featuring original artwork, collaboration goods, signed books, and special latte art.
JR East Shoji is releasing an adorable new Suica Penguin mascot keychain with a cute pose holding its cheeks, featuring magnets in the hands for posing fun. Available starting January 23, 2026 at TRAINIART stores and online.
Kawagoe Prince Hotel will offer an afternoon tea set themed around the original Saitama strawberry "Amarin" and the Queen of Hearts from March 11 to May 6, 2026.
JR East Shoji is launching a 1000-piece puzzle featuring the intricate railway network of the greater Tokyo area where PASMO and Suica IC cards can be used, available from January 23, 2026.
Lazare Diamond stores across Japan are hosting a Bridal Fair from January 24 to February 28, 2026. Customers who purchase bridal rings during the event will receive an original Lazare Diamond novelty item as a gift.
Seibuen Amusement Park offers special discounted all-day passes to residents of nearby cities and towns on February 14-15 and 21-22, 2026. Enjoy the limited-time "Nostalgic Aquarium," thrilling attractions, and exciting entertainment shows.
A new plant-based cola using stevia sweetener is now available at convenience stores across the Greater Tokyo area, offering a refreshing cola taste with zero sugar and zero calories.
Sogo Omiya Store presents Chocolate Paradise 2026 from January 22 to February 14, showcasing around 90 brands including 22 new arrivals. This year's theme is Valentine's Festival, offering not only chocolates but also a wide variety of sweets including baked goods and parfaits.
Three restaurants in Yokohama and Omiya will offer a luxurious Valentine's parfait featuring Häagen-Dazs ice cream, fresh strawberries, and layered chocolate delights from February 3 to March 30, 2026.
Starting January 21st, Toriaezu Gohei izakaya launches its second wave of winter delicacies featuring snow crab and milt dishes, along with Italian-inspired gianduja hot chocolate.
Fujiya has opened a new café concept featuring drinks and sweets inspired by the long-selling Milky candy. Located at Urawa-Misono Station on the Saitama Rapid Railway, this first-ever location offers Milky-flavored beverages, donuts, pies, muffins, cakes, and soft-serve ice cream.
Takagi Coffee introduces a limited-time seasonal menu featuring homemade nama chocolate in pancakes, smoothies, and hazelnut lattes, available from January 16th at 9 locations across Japan.
Fukaya Hanazono Premium Outlets launches an Amarin Strawberry Sweets Fair from January 15 to March 31, featuring 14 original sweets made with Saitama Prefecture's brand strawberry "Amarin." The fair includes a strawberry giveaway campaign and Valentine's fair.
Saitama Prefecture welcomes strawberry season with award-winning varieties like Amarin and Benitama. Various events are planned from January to March 2026, including strawberry sweets fairs and festivals.
TOMORROWLAND stores nationwide will host a MAISON de SABRÉ pop-up store from January 15 to January 25, 2026. This limited-time event offers a rare opportunity to explore the world of the internationally acclaimed leather brand in person.
L'OCCITANE stores at LUMINE and NEWoMan will offer eco-friendly initiatives during the LUMINE ETHICARNIVAL period, including eco points for refill purchases, candlelight nights, and a limited-edition candle gift set available from January 7.
Approximately 3,000 ice tulips will bloom at Metsa Village in Hanno this winter. The limited-time event runs from late January through February, featuring colorful displays, boat rides, and photo contests.
Self-photo brand Photomatic launches a collaboration with the popular anime Mr. Osomatsu. Five exclusive frames will be available at 11 locations nationwide from January 14 (Wed) to February 1 (Sun).
Experience a culinary journey through world cheeses at Royal Pines Hotel Urawa's 19F French restaurant RPR. The special full-course menu features cheeses from around the globe, from appetizers to desserts, available by reservation through February 19.
Experience the ultimate warm sake event as premium breweries gather at Tokorozawa Sakuratown for a two-day festival featuring kan-zake tasting and gourmet food pairings. The second edition of this popular festival takes place February 28 to March 1, 2026.
Due to the popularity of its Korean Fair, the day-trip onsen facility in Kamikawa Town, Saitama, is introducing three new menu items combining Korean cuisine with their signature aged brown rice, available from January 13 through March 1, 2026.
From February 1 to March 31, 2026, Cafe Crossyard offers special desserts featuring Saitama Prefecture's original strawberry variety Amarin with select lunch courses.
Cafe Cross Yard at Hotel Metropolitan Saitama Shintoshin will serve kuwai (arrowhead) from Koshigaya City as part of their New Year's breakfast buffet for three days starting January 1, 2026.
A limited one-day wine pairing dinner event will be held on February 14, 2026, featuring Passion Winery from Yokoze, Saitama, and O Park OGOSE's special dinner course. The winery's representative will personally explain their wines alongside the chef's exclusive dinner course.
A new Japanese-style izakaya featuring Kyoto-style oden and seasonal tempura has opened in Omiya, Saitama. The restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat oden appetizer and private dining rooms.
Tobu Zoo Park will host a collaboration event with the popular TV anime My Hero Academia from October 18, 2025 to January 12, 2026, featuring exclusive merchandise, character panels, themed food, and original voice announcements.
Summary This time, I went bar hopping in Omiya, Saitama Prefecture. It had been a while since my last visit to Omiya, so I was excited to explore the area again. Omiya Station is a major transportation hub with 12 lines passing through, surrounded by shopping malls and dining options, it offers convenience for visitors. […]
Saitama Prefecture, which is quite accessible from Tokyo, is full of attractive sightseeing spots! Here are six carefully selected places that are exciting for both adults and children. What is Saitama Prefecture? Saitama Prefecture is adjacent to the northern part of Tokyo, and is very conveniently accessible, being only about 30 minutes by train from […]
Located adjacent to the northern part of Tokyo, Saitama Prefecture is home to many fascinating spots. In this issue, we will introduce four historical spots that can only be experienced in Saitama Prefecture. What is Saitama Prefecture? Saitama Prefecture is located to the north of Tokyo and is only a 30-minute train ride from the […]
Saitama Prefecture is dotted with fascinating tourist spots. In this issue, we have compiled a list of three hot spots that are sure to be a hit with enthusiasts. This article will surely make you want to visit them. What is Saitama Prefecture? Saitama Prefecture is located north of Tokyo, about 30 minutes by train […]
Saitama Prefecture, which is fairly accessible from Tokyo, is full of attractive tourist spots! Here is a selection of the best photogenic spots to visit with friends or partners. What is Saitama Prefecture? Saitama Prefecture is located adjacent to the northern part of Tokyo, just 30 minutes by train from central Tokyo. It is characterized […]
Saitama Prefecture is located in the northern part of Tokyo, and is very conveniently accessible from central Tokyo in about 30 minutes by train. In this issue, we will introduce some of the most attractive spots that can only be found in Saitama Prefecture and that are easily accessible by train from Tokyo. Why not […]
Saitama Prefecture, which is quite accessible from Tokyo, is full of attractive sightseeing spots! We have carefully selected 7 places worth visiting, including photo-worthy museums, beautiful natural scenery, and shopping spots. Enjoy a memorable trip in Saitama, where Japanese traditions and modern entertainment merge! What is Saitama Prefecture? Saitama Prefecture is located in the northern […]
Kawagoe in Saitama Prefecture is one of the easiest day trips from Tokyo, just 30 minutes by train. Known as Little Edo for its preserved warehouse district and Toki no Kane bell tower, the town is packed with sweet potato treats, traditional candy shops, a famous shrine for matchmaking, and local sake tasting spots. Here is our full-day itinerary covering the highlights.
Chichibu and Nagatoro in Saitama are just an hour from central Tokyo by limited express. From riverside rock formations and river boat rides to handmade soba, shrines with centuries of history, and seasonal flowers, this area packs a surprising amount into a single day trip. Here's our firsthand itinerary covering both towns.