15 sightseeing spots in Saitama Shintoshin: Introducing new and old highlights

Saitama City, designated as a government ordinance city, is home to Saitama Shintoshin, located in the Chuo Ward. This area was developed through a government decision and officially opened on May 5, 2000. Near JR Saitama Shintoshin Station, there are high-rise buildings housing government agencies, as well as the Saitama Super Arena, which boasts a level of recognition alongside Saitama Stadium, and the Cocoon City complex, featuring various specialty shops.

With its rapid evolution, Saitama Shintoshin is filled with new tourist spots. At the same time, there are many historical attractions surrounding Saitama Shintoshin.

1. Cocoon City

When you exit JR Saitama Shintoshin Station, you'll see the complex commercial facility, Cocoon City, on the east side. Opened in 2004 as Cocoon Shintoshin, it has since been upgraded following new developments. The name has been changed to Cocoon 1, Cocoon 2, and Cocoon 3, featuring over 270 stores, including popular specialty shops, trendy restaurants, and a movie theater.

With excellent access just a short walk from JR Saitama Shintoshin Station, and equipped with ample parking, it is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Interestingly, this area was once the site of the Katakura Industry Omiya Factory, known for silk production. Cocoon refers to the English word for pupa, which is derived from the name of the managing company, Katakura Industry.

2. Saitama Super Arena

Towering to the west of JR Saitama Shintoshin Station is the Saitama Super Arena, a multipurpose hall owned by Saitama Prefecture. Its exterior is particularly impressive; the striking collaboration of straight lines and curves makes it a landmark in Saitama Shintoshin that you won't easily forget. In 2001, it even won a Good Design Award.

In addition to its stunning design, the facility is also equipped with comprehensive features. It has a maximum seating capacity of 37,000, making it one of the largest venues in Japan. Furthermore, it employs a Moving Block System that allows the seating, ceiling, stage, and floor to be movable, enabling the space to be divided for events of various sizes. Since events are held frequently, be sure to check the website when visiting Saitama Shintoshin.

3. Keyaki Square

In front of Saitama Super Arena is Keyaki Square, a two-story structure. The first floor is lined with restaurants and shops, while the second floor connects to JR Saitama Shintoshin Station and features many Keyaki trees, which are the official tree of Saitama Prefecture. A gentle breeze flows through the green grove, making it a pleasant spot for relaxation in Saitama Shintoshin.

Additionally, the winter illuminations are truly enchanting! You can enjoy a musical light forest in Saitama Shintoshin. This spot is highly recommended for both sightseeing and dating.

4. Art Objects

Saitama Shintoshin, with its rows of high-rise buildings housing government offices, might seem like a rather sterile landscape, but did you know that there are numerous art objects between the Saitama Shintoshin Government Building No. 1 and the Japan Post Group Saitama Building? Most of these pieces are installed on the pedestrian deck, allowing you to enjoy fun artworks as you walk among the tall buildings.

These creations are primarily made by young artists and elementary school students from the Kanto region, showcasing a variety of unique and creative works. From small pieces that you might overlook to large installations that command attention, the diversity is impressive, with some artworks designed to be viewed from the height of children's eye level and others placed high on the walls and ceilings of the buildings. Explore the art in Saitama Shintoshin and consider going on an object hunt.

5. Lafre Saitama

Rafre Saitama, located in Saitama Shintoshin, offers hotel accommodations as well as conference and banquet facilities. It features a variety of restaurants serving Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisine, with visually appealing dishes being one of its attractions. Additionally, the hotel boasts excellent fitness and spa facilities.

The fitness center is equipped with various training machines, and trainers provide attentive guidance. The spa includes a natural hot spring with a salt content, designed with flowing curves reminiscent of the seaside. There is also an outdoor jet bath where you can feel the breeze and enjoy a sense of openness. You can refresh yourself thoroughly in Saitama Shintoshin. Consider using it as your accommodation when you visit Saitama Shintoshin.

6. Hikawa Shrine

Next, let's introduce the tourist spots on the eastern side of Saitama Shintoshin Station. One notable site is Hikawa Shrine, the ichinomiya (first shrine) of Musashi Province, which is the origin of the name Omiya. The approach to the shrine extends north from near JR Saitama Shintoshin Station, stretching about 2 kilometers and lined with approximately 700 giant zelkova trees! Among them, 19 trees are designated as natural monuments of Saitama City, making it a great idea to look for the plaques on the trees while exploring Saitama Shintoshin.

To reach the shrine, you will pass through three torii gates. The first gate is the Ichinotorii, marking the entrance to the approach; the second gate, Ninatorii, is the largest wooden torii in Japan; and the third gate, Sanotorii, leads into the shrine grounds. Along the approach, you'll find Heisei Hiroba, a relaxing space for citizens, as well as a library, allowing for a leisurely sightseeing experience.

7. Ohara Soccer Stadium, Saitama

Near Saitama Shintoshin, there is a place where you can meet J-League players! It’s the Saitama City Ohara Soccer Field, the dedicated training ground for Urawa Reds. They have practice almost every day, and there are viewing stands set up for spectators to watch. Plus, the distance to the field is quite close.

In front of the clubhouse, there is a fan service waiting area where you can meet the players after practice! You can talk to them and even ask for autographs. On the second floor of the clubhouse, there is a supporters' cafe, which features a food corner and exhibits that fans will definitely want to see. The Saitama City Ohara Soccer Field is well-known for its attentive fan service. You can access it by bus from the east exit of Saitama Shintoshin. Be sure to check the practice days and fan service schedule on their website to fully enjoy your sightseeing in Saitama Shintoshin.

8. Misono Strawberry Land

Misono Strawberry Land, located in the Midori Ward of Saitama City, is a popular tourist farm where you can easily enjoy strawberry picking during your sightseeing in Saitama Shintoshin. Just hearing the name of this attraction sounds delicious! Here, you can taste the unique variety of Reiberry, as well as Akihime and Benihoppe, which are not commonly found in supermarkets.

The farm uses bench-style cultivation, so the strawberries do not touch the ground, making it hygienic! You can safely eat them straight from the plant. The facility is also barrier-free, with a baby room equipped for diaper changes and nursing. It is a place that can be enjoyed by everyone, from children and moms to the elderly and those in wheelchairs. While sightseeing in Saitama Shintoshin, be sure to indulge in the shiny, juicy, large strawberries!.

9. Yono Park

Next, let’s introduce the tourist spots on the west side of Saitama Shintoshin Station. First up is Yono Park, which opened in 1877 as part of the modernization efforts by the Meiji government and is the third park established in Saitama Prefecture. Covering approximately 51,000 square meters, it has been selected as one of Saitama's 100 Nature Spots. Yono Park is famous for its cherry blossoms and roses.

The roses, particularly in early summer, are renowned, featuring around 170 varieties and 3,000 bushes blooming in a riot of colors. First-time visitors to Saitama Shintoshin may be overwhelmed by the sheer variety and abundance.

The park also has athletic facilities and a pond, making it a great recommendation for families with children visiting Saitama Shintoshin. You can encounter turtles and mallards while exploring. Enjoying a leisurely time surrounded by flowers during your sightseeing in Saitama Shintoshin sounds lovely.

10. Enjoin Temple

Near Yono Park, which you can encounter while sightseeing in Saitama Shintoshin, is the famous temple Enjōin. Founded by the samurai Hatakeyama Shigetada during the Kamakura period at its current location in Sakura Ward, it was relocated to this site during the Keichō era. It also enshrines Daikokuten, one of the Seven Lucky Gods of Yono. Furthermore, it is the first temple of the 88 sacred sites located in the southern part of Saitama Prefecture, known as the Kitakudachi 88 Sacred Sites.

Upon passing through the mountain gate, you will find the imposing Tahōtō (two-story pagoda) on the right. Standing at approximately 30 meters tall, it is the third tallest in Japan! In front of the main hall, there is a 6-meter-tall Higan cherry blossom tree that greets visitors. Known as the Chiyo Sakura of Enjōin, it is designated as a natural monument of Saitama City. This ancient tree, around 300 years old, bursts into a stunning display of pink blossoms in spring! Be sure to stop by while you are exploring Saitama Shintoshin.

11. Yono Summer Festival

Every year in mid-July, the Yono Summer Festival is held in Chuo Ward, Saitama City. This summer festival is said to have a history that dates back to the Hōei era of the Edo period.

In recent years, as prominent urban festivals have seen a decline in young people participating in carrying the mikoshi (portable shrines), the Yono Summer Festival defies this trend with a strong presence of young carriers. Clad in happi coats, they march energetically, bringing a vibrant atmosphere to the festival. The festival lasts for two days, with the towns of Uemachi, Nakacho, Shimomachi, and Kamimine as the main organizers, featuring six mikoshi that parade primarily around Honmachi Street in Chuo Ward, Saitama City.

Along the parade route, you'll find a lineup of food stalls that are essential to any festival. Many people in yukata (summer kimono) also join in, making it a perfect scene to experience summer tourism in Saitama Shintoshin.

12. Saitama Arts Theater

The Saitama Arts Theater, located in Chuo Ward, Saitama City, is a performing arts facility that opened in 1994. It consists of a total of four floors, including two above ground and one basement level. The theater has hosted numerous productions directed by the renowned stage director Yukio Ninagawa and has gained attention for showcasing cutting-edge dance performances from around the world.

Designed by architect Hisao Koyama, the theater features stunning and innovative interiors, including the circular plaza Rotunda, which is surrounded by glass blocks, and the Galleria, a 100-meter-long corridor that floods with natural light. It is also used as a filming location for television dramas. Additionally, there is an information plaza that houses a performing arts resource room, a cafeteria, and a space for user interaction, making it a hub for information dissemination. Be sure to experience the performing arts facilities in Saitama Shintoshin.

13. Yono no Okaya

Myogyoji Temple, located northwest of JR Minami-Yono Station, is home to the famous giant kaya tree known as the Okaaya on the grounds of the Konpira Shrine to its south. This impressive tree stands 21.5 meters tall, has a trunk circumference of 7.28 meters, and a root circumference of 13.5 meters, making it one of Japan's three great kaya trees! It was already renowned as the largest tree in the Kanto region during the Muromachi period. It is designated as a national natural monument and is also listed among New Japan's 100 Famous Trees.

The trunk has a shape reminiscent of bundled cylinders, and its sturdy branches stretch out powerfully in all directions, showcasing the resilience it has developed against the elements. Additionally, a Daruma Market is held every year on February 10 at the Konpira Shrine. While exploring Saitama Shintoshin, take a moment to feel the history that emanates from this giant tree.

14. Yono Seven Lucky Gods

In Yono, which developed along the Kamakura Highway, there are temples and shrines dedicated to the Seven Lucky Gods. Known as the Yono Seven Lucky Gods, you can enjoy a stamp rally during the New Year’s season. This event takes place near JR Kita-yono Station to Yono-Honmachi Station, close to JR Saitama Shintoshin Station. You might be able to receive some auspicious blessings while sightseeing in Saitama Shintoshin.

The tour includes visits to the following: Up Town Hikawa Shrine (Fukurokuju), Ichiyama Shrine (Ebisu), Enjo-in (Daikokuten), Tenso Shrine (Jurōjin), Enpuku-ji (Hotei), Suzutani Daido (Bishamonten), and Nidokuriyama Daishi Kōbōson-in (Benzaiten), with a total duration of about three hours. Additionally, on January 3rd, citizens dressed as the Seven Lucky Gods hold a costume parade. Starting the New Year with a tour of Saitama Shintoshin and visiting the Seven Lucky Gods is a delightful way to celebrate.

15. Arakawa General Athletic Park

If you want to move your body and be active, there’s a perfect place for that. Located along the Arakawa River to the west of Saitama Shintoshin, Arakawa Sports Park is well-equipped with facilities like baseball fields, tennis courts, and soccer fields. Even just spreading out a picnic blanket for lunch can provide a satisfying sense of openness.

On clear days, you can enjoy a wonderful view, with Mount Fuji visible in the distance! You can feel the breeze while enjoying the outdoors. Please check the website in advance for usage guidelines and important information before your visit. You can have a sporty sightseeing experience in Saitama Shintoshin.

◎Summary

From trendy tourist spots that host popular events to historical sites that have stood for hundreds of years, there is truly a wide variety! JR Omiya Station, a major terminal, is just one station away and offers excellent access from Tokyo. Additionally, the famous tourist destination of Kawagoe in Saitama Prefecture is nearby. If you venture a bit further from Saitama Shintoshin, you can also visit Chichibu for sightseeing.

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15 sightseeing spots in Saitama Shintoshin: Introducing new and old highlights