Top Saitama Prefecture Cultural Tours

This small-group walking tour explores Kawagoe as a living merchant town, where commerce, faith, and daily life have coexisted for centuries. Often called “Little Edo,” Kawagoe is not simply a preserved historic area. Old streets are still used, family-run shops remain active, and temples and shrines continue to shape everyday routines. As you walk through merchant streets and quiet back lanes, your guide explains how trade built the town and how belief supported daily life. The route follows a relaxed walking pace with optional light tastings such as traditional sweets, offering a natural glimpse into local food culture. Rather than rushing between landmarks, this experience focuses on understanding Kawagoe as a place to live, work, and pray, where history remains part of everyday scenes.

This tour is available upon request. We will formally accept reservations once arrangements are complete, with a minimum of 5 participants required. Welcome to Chichibu, just 90 minutes from Tokyo! Your dedicated guide will lead the way. Chichibu is a basin region surrounded by mountains, where rich nature and historical culture remain. The Chichibu Pilgrimage involves visiting the 34 sacred Kannon temples scattered throughout the Chichibu region. During the Edo period, many people visited the area as a place of worship. This approximately 6-hour tour involves walking pilgrimage while explaining the basic etiquette for temple visits and the characteristics of each temple.Pilgrimage attire is available for rent upon request. Along the way, participants can experience zazen meditation and sutra copying, making for a mindful and refreshing day.

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.

This tour is available for February 20 and March 11, 2026 only. Welcome to Chichibu, just 90 minutes from Tokyo! Your dedicated guide will lead the way. Nestled in a basin surrounded by mountains, Chichibu is a tourist destination offering rich natural beauty (Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park, the clear waters of the Arakawa River, etc.), historical culture (Chichibu Night Festival, Chichibu Meisen silk, etc.), and easy access from Tokyo. The Chichibu Pilgrimage involves visiting the 34 sacred Kannon temples scattered throughout the Chichibu region. During the Edo period, many people visited the area as a place of worship. This tour includes hiking through the rolling hills. Enjoy the changing seasonal scenery as you make your pilgrimage. For lunch, we offer shojin ryorii (traditional Buddhist vegetarian lunch) made with local food.

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!

See bonsai through the eyes of someone who worked there. Your guide is a former Omiya Bonsai Museum staff member, bringing insider knowledge and behind-the-scenes stories that no guidebook can offer. Bonsai is more than a small tree — it is a living artwork that can take decades, even centuries, to perfect. On this tour, you will learn how these trees are shaped, why each one tells a unique story, and what it truly takes to care for a national treasure. We begin in Omiya Bonsai Village, a neighbourhood of master craftsmen that has existed since the 1920s. Walking these quiet streets, you will see working nurseries and specialist shops that most visitors never discover. From there, we enter the museum itself, where centuries-old trees are displayed alongside the history and philosophy behind this uniquely Japanese art form. This is not a standard museum visit. It is a guided conversation with someone who knows every tree, every story, and every secret that the plaques do not tell.

Explore the Charming Town of Kawagoe with Japanese University Students! Join us on a fun and interactive walking tour as we explore the streets of Kawagoe, also known as “Little Edo.” You’ll discover the fascinating history behind each spot, try local snacks, and enjoy cultural exchange with Japanese university students who are learning English!

Chichibu Festival Museum: By watching the 3D theater and the projection mapping, you will immerse yourself in the culture and the festivals in Chichibu. You can watch traditional music by the local players of Chichibu Yatai Bayashi. This is a rare opportunity as there aren't many other tours where you can watch the Festival Music performance. The guide can play all the instruments. I'm sure you can deepen the charm of Chichibu Yatai Bayashi. Chichibu Shrine: It has a history of 2111 years. A Female God "Myoken-sama" lives here, which is in the direction of the northern star. On the other side, we can see Mt. Buko, where the Dragon God lives, who comes to "Otabisho" to meet "Myoken-sama" once a year on the day of the Night Festival. Exploring the downtown Chichibu: Besides the quaint shops, cafes, and local gourmet food, you visit Suwa Shrine and "Otabisho". This tour will be held only on Oct 6, 14, and 20 this year. Don't miss out on this opportunity.

Wander through the streets of Kawagoe, a city that retains the atmosphere of the Edo period, with the guidance of a knowledgeable local expert. Visit the iconic Bell Tower (Toki no Kane), stroll through the Kurazukuri Street lined with traditional merchant houses, and discover the timeless beauty of Kitain Temple. Don’t miss the chance to experience the tranquil grounds of Kawagoe Castle and explore hidden gems such as old candy shops and secret alleyways. Learn about the rich history of this “Little Edo” town, its cultural significance, and fascinating local legends. Enjoy the taste of Kawagoe’s sweet potato specialties and traditional snacks along the way. While the tour primarily uses public transportation to provide an authentic experience, a private vehicle can be arranged upon request. Experience the charm of old Japan with our local guide and make unforgettable memories in Kawagoe!

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.

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.

English-guided tour of local sake brewery founded in 1897. After the tour, enjoy tasting variety of sake. We'll take the trip in small groups from 2 to 10 people, so that your experience will be intimate. You can take close look on the sake brewing, and asking questions to Brewery staff.

Chichibu One-Day Tour No.3 – Explore the Spirit of Chichibu! Join us for a unique one-day tour to experience the rich culture and spirituality of Chichibu! Visit the Chichibu Festival Museum, where you’ll discover the vibrant history of one of Japan’s grandest festivals. Then, explore Saikou-ji Temple (No.16 of the Chichibu 34 Kannon Pilgrimage), home to a miniature Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. Enjoy a scenic stroll, delicious local cuisine, and a relaxing hot spring. A perfect blend of tradition, history, and relaxation awaits you.

Japanese Modern Samurai Show ! (Popular Theater), we share the beauty and spirit of Japan with the world through authentic cultural experiences. We design and operate tour that combine experiences such as observing Sumo morning practice and Modern Samurai Show, offering visitors the chance to feel the real Japan with all five senses. Each experience serves as a cultural bridge, connecting people across the world to the heart and beauty of Japan.

Skip the crowds—this is a private tour for your group only. You will see the city's best attractions with your guide. Have you heard about the San-no-torii (Third Shrine Gate)? There are numerous spots perfect for seeing nature, and you shouldn’t miss the chance to view the beauty of Omiya Park. You will have a chance to explore the place while hearing about its fascinating facts. How is Saitama so well-known for its "Bonsai"? There must be a good reason for it to draw tourists from all over the world. Did you know that the Hikawa Shrine is 1,500 years old and houses five different deities? You will be surprised how many stories are hidden in the streets, buildings, and corners of Saitama. The wonderful things about life in this city that your guide will highlight for you. This is the best option for first-time visitors who want to see as much as possible during their stay in the city.

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

Bonsai is one of the traditional arts which represent Japan. The Omiya Bonsai Art Museum is a must place for Bonsai /Japanese Garden lovers. At Bonsai village Bonsai classes are held for the beginner(reservation needed). Opened in 2010  as the first bonsai museum, Omiya Bonsai Museum consists of Collection Gallery, Bonsai Garden and Bonsai Terrace on 2F. At Collection gallery Bonsai culture is introduced through monthly displays of bonsai pot, stone, and seasonal Bonsai. Collection gallery leads to Bonsai garden displaying 60 seasonal Bonsai outside. Some can be viewed from all angles and photographed. After the museum we walk around the very calm Bonsai village spotted with houses having pretty garden where pine trees and other flower trees are neatly well kept. Among them there are 5 Bonsai gardens where Bonsai are created by each owner, displayed inside and sold, the staff will explain about how to take care Bonsai.

Experience Chichibu’s Silk Heritage and Night Festival Chichibu, historically a center of sericulture and silk weaving, hosted grand yatai float parades during the Night Festival to attract silk merchants, earning it the affectionate nickname "The Silkworm Festival." Held annually on December 2nd and 3rd for over 300 years, this festival celebrates the region's rich traditions. This tour offers a visit to the Chichibu Meisen Museum, where you can enjoy live silk-spinning demonstrations and participate in a coaster-making workshop. You will also explore the Chichibu Matsuri Kaikan, where lavish yatai floats and kasaboko are displayed year-round, capturing the spirit of the Night Festival. Additionally, the tour includes a stop at Chichibu Shrine, one of Japan’s oldest shrines with over 2,100 years of history, renowned for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.

Let's take a walk in the Yokosuka area, where the Mikasa, one of the world's three most famous memorial ships, is preserved! Mikasa fought valiantly as the flagship of the Allied Fleet led by Commander-in-Chief Heihachiro Togo during the Battle of the Sea of Japan, contributing to the historic victory. The battleship Mikasa is kept in Mikasa Park, where visitors can see a statue of Heihachiro Togo and other spots that symbolize the era. Walking around this area, which has a unique atmosphere of both Japan and the United States as a town of the U.S. military stationed in Yokosuka after World War II, will surely be a memorable part of your trip. It is also possible, in consultation with a guide, to visit places outside the Yokosuka area that are associated with warships. The tours are very satisfying for warship enthusiasts and veterans.

Saitama Prefecture, adjacent to Tokyo, offers a diverse options of experiences that cater to wellness and mindfulness enthusiasts and it's only about 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. After Takedera, your wellness journey continues to the Kirari spa villa at Miyazawako Lake. As one of Saitama's most popular spas, this villa boasts an extensive variety of options - A carbonated pool, open-air baths, hot stone baths, saunas, and more. Spend your afternoon at the spa villa before returning to the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. Your tour concludes here.

Gyoda City in Saitama Prefecture is located approximately one hour by train from the Tokyo metropolitan area. Visitors can enjoy a ninja experience at the “Ninja Castle,” a Japanese Heritage site in Gyoda City. Visitors can experience shuriken throwing as if it were a game, or wear a ninja costume to experience what it feels like to be a ninja. The Narita clan, lords of the Osh Castle in the Warring States period, belonged to the Hojo clan. The Hojo clan once had a group of ninja named “fuma”. Why don't you experience Japanese culture and ninja experience?

Are you familiar with doburoku, a rare type of Japanese sake? Unlike regular sake, doburoku is made by bottling the unfiltered mash (moromi) while fermentation continues. This makes it very difficult to store, and it's rarely served at restaurants. Yamane Brewery handcrafts this precious sake in small batches. It may be the only sustainable brewery in Japan operating out of a repurposed convenience store. While most breweries use stainless steel tanks, Yamane uses traditional wooden barrels made from local Nishikawa timber. This rare method allows natural microorganisms to thrive, adding unique flavors from the wood and water—resulting in a one-of-a-kind sake every time. During the tour, you can taste three types of this special sake using locally crafted cups made from 100% Hanno soil, a material no longer produced and only available in limited quantities. Hanno is just an hour by train from Tokyo, with easy access to Chichibu, Kawagoe, and attractions like Moominvalley Park.