Saitama

Travel Guide

A modern urban scene with tall buildings, a covered walkway, and people walking.
A modern building with large windows and a tree in the foreground.
A small outdoor café with a tiled roof and a sign advertising coffee, beer, and wine.
A sculpture of abstract figures in a forest.
A cityscape with modern skyscrapers, including a distinctive tower with a red and white pattern.

Explore glorious parks, attend a J-League soccer match, watch a J-pop concert in this busy commuter city and find museums dedicated to bonsai, manga and trains.

Created from the merger of three cities, Saitama is an exciting city that is perfectly situated for a daytrip from Tokyo. Enjoy the city’s parks, museums, family-friendly entertainment attractions and delicious cuisine. Saitama is the capital of Saitama prefecture. Venture deeper to discover a region teeming with ancient shrines and outdoor adventures amid multicolored landscapes.

The 168-acre (68-hectare) Omiya Park, famous for its cherry blossom trees and red pine forest, is a great place to start. Visit the 2,000-year-old Hikawa Shrine and meet varied wildlife at the free Omiya Park Zoo. Get active at the sports fields of riverside Akigase Park and swim at the summer pool of Shirakobatosuijo Park. Yono Park dazzles with its cherry blossoms and roses.

Delve into the evolution of Japan’s railroads via interactive exhibits at the Railway Museum. Learn about manga comics at the Saitama Manga Museum. Saitama Prefectural Museum of History and Folklore showcases the city’s artists, cultures and lifestyles. The Omiya Bonsai Art Museum and Omiya Bonsai Village provide an excellent introduction to the art of bonsai tree cultivation.

If you are in the mood for shopping, the AEON LakeTown mall offers national and international fashion labels such as Uniqlo and Zara. Cocoon City has additional global retails and a cinema. Join 37,000 adoring fans at the Saitama Super Arena for performances by popular J-pop bands. Paint your face red for a Urawa Red Diamonds soccer match at Saitama Stadium.

Like everywhere in Japan, the people of Saitama take their cuisine seriously. Sample unagi kabayaki (grilled eel), which originated on the rivers and swamps of the Urawa Ward during the Edo era. The Iwatsuki Ward is the birthplace of tofu ramen.

Trains depart regularly for the 25-minute journey from Tokyo Station to Saitama’s Omiya Station. Use the city as a base for touring fascinating sights, such as the Chichibu Kannon Pilgrimage, Kita-in Temple and Nagatoro Iwadatami Rocks in Saitama prefecture.

Where to stay in Saitama

Find the best Saitama areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Saitama
Learn more about Saitama
A stadium entrance with red doors and a sign reading "Gate 2".

Omiya

You'll enjoy the museums and monuments in Omiya. You might want to make time for a stop at Hikawa Shrine or Nack5 Stadium Omiya.

The Museum of Modern Art, Saitama.

Urawa Ward

If you're spending some time in Urawa Ward, The Museum of Modern Art, Saitama and Urawa Art Museum are top sights worth seeing.

A modern building with a curved facade and a pedestrian walkway with greenery.

Chuo Ward

If you're spending some time in Chuo Ward, GMO Arena Saitama and Keyaki Hiroba are top sights worth seeing.

A shopping mall interior with wooden pillars, a 'welcia' store, and people sitting on benches.

Shintoshin

If you're spending some time in Shintoshin, GMO Arena Saitama and Keyaki Hiroba are top sights worth seeing.

A water park with green slides and tall buildings in the background.

Minami Ward

While visiting Minami Ward, you might make a stop by sights like Numakage Park and Besshonuma Park.

Palace Hotel Omiya

Palace Hotel Omiya

4 out of 5
1-7-5 Sakuragicho, Omiya-ku Saitama Saitama
$64 nightly
The price is $70 total per night from Dec 7 to Dec 8
$70 total
Dec 7 - Dec 8
Stay at this hotel in Saitama. Enjoy free WiFi, 6 restaurants, and 2 bars/lounges. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions GMO ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (818 reviews)
"Overall great hotel. We enjoyed it. The only con for us (but that is personal preference) although firm the pillows were too flat. Would recommend 10/10"

Reviewed on Oct 27, 2026

Palace Hotel Omiya
APA Hotel Saitama-Shintoshin Ekinishi

APA Hotel Saitama-Shintoshin Ekinishi

3 out of 5
5-1 Shintoshin, Chuo-ku Saitama Saitama
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$54 nightly
The price is $59 total per night from Nov 8 to Nov 9
$59 total
Nov 8 - Nov 9
Stay at this hotel in Saitama. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions GMO Arena Saitama and Keyaki Hiroba are ...
APA Hotel Saitama-Shintoshin Ekinishi
Shinjuku Washington Hotel Main

Shinjuku Washington Hotel Main

4 out of 5
3-2-9 Nishishinjuku Tokyo Tokyo-to
$100 nightly
The price is $110 total per night from Dec 7 to Dec 8
$110 total
Dec 7 - Dec 8
Stay at this hotel in Tokyo. Enjoy free WiFi, 15 restaurants, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (4,371 reviews)
"Clean room, clean common areas, and friendly staff. Also nice to have an attached Family Mart convenience store."

Reviewed on Nov 6, 2026

Shinjuku Washington Hotel Main
See all 3,050 properties in Saitama
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
KOKO HOTEL Residence Asakusa Kappabashi

KOKO HOTEL Residence Asakusa Kappabashi

4 out of 5
3-chome-24-2 Nishiasakusa Tokyo Tokyo
Stay at this aparthotel in Tokyo. Enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Sensoji Temple and Ueno Park are located ...
KOKO HOTEL Residence Asakusa Kappabashi
MONday Apart Premium Ueno

MONday Apart Premium Ueno

4 out of 5
1-7-6 Kitaueno Tokyo Tokyo
Stay at this aparthotel in Tokyo. Enjoy free WiFi, parking (surcharge), and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
MONday Apart Premium Ueno
KOKO HOTEL Residence Asakusa Tawaramachi

KOKO HOTEL Residence Asakusa Tawaramachi

3.5 out of 5
2-8- Kotobuki Tokyo Tokyo
Stay at this aparthotel in Tokyo. Enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (629 reviews)
"Clean large room. Washer/dryer combo inside the space that made a very loud beeping sound when done, so run laundry when you aren't sleeping. Great staff at front desk to help with whatever. Close to Tsuruhashi train station."

Reviewed on Nov 2, 2026

KOKO HOTEL Residence Asakusa Tawaramachi
See all properties in Saitama
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Saitama attractions

A modern architectural structure with a sign reading "SAITAMA SUPER ARENA".

GMO Arena Saitama

8.6/10 (627 reviews)
Just a short ride north of the city’s downtown, Tokyo’s premier entertainment and sports venue is one of the world’s largest indoor arenas.
See properties

Things to do

Kawagoe: Family-Friendly Kimono & Yukata Experience at WARGO

Kawagoe: Family-Friendly Kimono & Yukata Experience at WARGO

$31
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Kawagoe: Family-Friendly Kimono & Yukata Experience at WARGO
Tokyo Shinjuku Sumo Show & Experience with Photo

Tokyo Shinjuku Sumo Show & Experience with Photo

$76
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Tokyo Shinjuku Sumo Show & Experience with Photo
Sunshine 60 Observatory Tenbou Park

Sunshine 60 Observatory Tenbou Park Admission Ticket | Tokyo

$13
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Sunshine 60 Observatory Tenbou Park Admission Ticket | Tokyo
See all activities in Saitama

Frequently asked questions

Is Saitama worth visiting?
Saitama is worth visiting for its major sports and entertainment venues like GMO Arena Saitama and Saitama Stadium 2002. Travelers can also explore distinct areas such as Omiya and Minami Ward, and enjoy a diverse food scene with Asian and European dining options.
When is the best time to visit Saitama?
The best time to visit Saitama is from April through June, when travelers can enjoy pleasant weather conditions. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of December through March are a good option, offering cooler temperatures and a different experience.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Saitama?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Saitama depend on what you want to see:

  • Omiya offers cultural attractions like the Saitama City Space Theater and the Railway Museum, plus sports at Nack5 Stadium Omiya.
  • Minami Ward is known for its green spaces, including Numakage Park and Besshonuma Park.
  • Midori Ward features parks such as Inumakata Park and Osaki Park, along with Saitama Stadium 2002.
  • Urawa Ward is home to cultural sites like Tsuki Shrine and art institutions such as the Urawa Art Museum and The Museum of Modern Art, Saitama.

What is Saitama known for?
Saitama is known for its major venues such as GMO Arena Saitama and Saitama Stadium 2002, as well as the historic Hikawa Shrine. This city, named after Saitama Prefecture, is a riverside destination located on the Arakawa River, offering travelers a chance to explore its unique blend of modern and traditional sites.
What is a good itinerary length for Saitama?
A good itinerary length for Saitama is two to three days to see key highlights like Hikawa Shrine, GMO Arena Saitama, and explore areas such as Omiya. An extended stay of four to five days allows travelers to enjoy activities like a Bonsai Tour and Experience or an Omiya Bonsai Museum and Village guided tour, plus a Bar Hopping Tour. See Saitama Activities.
How do you get around Saitama?
Saitama is well-connected by train, making it easy to get around. Travelers can use stations like Omiya Station, Saitama-Shintoshin Station, and Urawa Station to reach various areas. For more independent exploration, rental cars are available in neighborhoods such as Omiya, Urawa Ward, and Chuo Ward. Rideshare services also offer a convenient option.
What are the top things to do in and around Saitama?
Saitama offers a mix of cultural landmarks, unique experiences, and green spaces to explore:

  • Tour Hikawa Shrine and enjoy a coffee roasting experience.
  • Explore the Omiya Bonsai Museum and Village on a guided tour.
  • Go on a bar hopping tour in Saitama.
  • Visit the Railway Museum.
  • Stroll through Omiya Park.

How do I plan a trip to Saitama?
To plan your trip to Saitama, search for hotels in areas like Omiya, Minami Ward, or Midori Ward. Book flights, rental cars, and activities such as the Bar Hopping Tour or a Bonsai Tour in advance. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon to enjoy sights like Hikawa Shrine. Trains are available for getting around.
What cuisines can you find in Saitama?
In Saitama, travelers can find Japanese cuisine, featuring popular dishes like sushi, ramen, tempura, and yakitori. Beyond Japanese specialties, you can also explore a variety of other Asian options, European fare, fresh seafood, and classic Italian dishes.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Saitama?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Saitama by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Saitama with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Saitama trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Saitama?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Saitama can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Saitama trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Saitama trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Saitama trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Saitama trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Saitama?
If it's your first trip to Saitama, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Saitama hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Saitama hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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