The gateway to Saitama: Kawaguchi City! 6 recommended tourist spots to visit with the family

Kawaguchi City is located in the southern part of Saitama Prefecture. It borders Tokyo, making it very accessible from the city! But do you know what kind of tourist spots Kawaguchi has to offer? It may not be widely known, but Kawaguchi City is home to places where families can enjoy sightseeing together, such as botanical gardens and science museums. Let’s take a look at 6 recommended tourist spots in Kawaguchi City!

1. Kawaguchi Municipal Green Center

The first place to visit for sightseeing in Kawaguchi is the Kawaguchi Municipal Green Center. This botanical garden has even been selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Urban Parks. In addition to plants, it also has an athletic area and a pool (which becomes an ice-skating rink in winter), and its expansive grounds are full of attractions! Let’s introduce a few of them.

◆ Flower Bed Plaza

Located roughly in the center of the park, the Flower Bed Plaza lets you enjoy seasonal blooms. The tulips in spring and cosmos in autumn are so beautiful, you’ll want to capture them in photos.

◆ Large Greenhouse

The Large Greenhouse is divided into three zones: a tropical greenhouse, an aquatic greenhouse, and a cactus greenhouse. One of the highlights is that you can see flowers and fruits year-round, such as hibiscus, bananas, and mangoes. The cactus greenhouse, where you can view various types of cacti, is especially popular.

◆ Miniature Railway

This train-style ride runs on a 600-meter-long course. With a station, crossing gates, and a railway bridge along the way, it feels surprisingly authentic. It’s a big hit with small children.

2. Kawaguchi Science Museum

The Kawaguchi Science Museum is a popular sightseeing spot where you can enjoy learning about science. The science exhibition room, themed around the “Sun,” has around 40 exhibits. All of them are interactive, so you can actually touch and engage with them to solve everyday scientific mysteries.

On the 3rd floor, there is also a planetarium! Renovated in 2013, it now features a highly immersive planetarium experience using cutting-edge technology.

Various events are held on weekends, making it a perfect spot for family outings in Kawaguchi! New discoveries await you all.

3. Japan Kaleidoscope Museum

Originally located in Shibuya, Tokyo, the Japan Kaleidoscope Museum was relocated to Kawaguchi City and reopened after renovations in 2012. This museum showcases the collection of Director Shinichi Okuma. Inside, kaleidoscopes from all over the world are densely displayed. Their variety in size and shape will surely make you lose track of time as you get immersed.

The Japan Kaleidoscope Museum offers both a “viewing course” and a “making course,” where you can learn about the structure and history of kaleidoscopes with explanations from the director. The chance to create a one-of-a-kind kaleidoscope that’s uniquely yours is incredibly romantic, isn’t it? Note that advance reservations are prioritized, so booking ahead will ensure a smoother visit.

Surrounded by a dreamy atmosphere, the Japan Kaleidoscope Museum is one spot you won’t want to miss when sightseeing in Kawaguchi City.

4. SKIP City Sainokuni Visual Plaza

SKIP City Sainokuni Visual Plaza is a facility that serves as a base for digital video production, allowing for filming and screenings. There’s also a “Visual Museum” where you can learn about video production, making it an ideal place for family sightseeing in Kawaguchi.

At the Visual Museum, you can experience video production firsthand while learning about its history. There are sections where you can try out the work of a cameraman or create animation. On weekends, there’s even an attraction where you can experience being a news announcer! In addition to permanent exhibits, special exhibitions are also held, making this a must-visit for animation lovers.

5. Mitsuzōin Temple

With a history of over 550 years, Mitsuzōin Temple enshrines a Jizo Bosatsu statue created during the Heian period. As you step through the main gate and into the grounds, you’re greeted with a peaceful, green-filled environment. There’s even a tea room on the premises, where tea ceremony classes are regularly held.

In spring, the approach to the temple and its grounds are adorned with blooming Angyo cherry blossoms, attracting many visitors. Especially popular is the "Sakura Festival" held in mid-March, which draws large crowds. It’s definitely a must-visit spot during spring sightseeing in Kawaguchi.

6. Spa Royal Kawaguchi

Spa Royal Kawaguchi is an Asian-themed hot spring facility. Inside its exotic ambiance, you can relax and forget about time. The natural hot spring, pumped from 1,300 meters underground, is said to be effective for nerve pain and sensitivity to cold. From the "Utataneyu" where you can soak while lying down to the jet baths, there’s no shortage of relaxing bathing options.

What’s more, Spa Royal Kawaguchi offers an Asian cafe with meals, desserts, and alcohol, plus a comic corner where you can read from a selection of about 2,500 manga and magazines. The extensive non-bathing amenities are part of what makes Spa Royal Kawaguchi so appealing. It’s highly recommended for those who want to enjoy Kawaguchi sightseeing at a leisurely pace.

◎ Summary

How did you like our 6 recommended sightseeing spots in Kawaguchi City?

Whether deepening your knowledge at science museums and galleries, or finding peace among cherry blossoms and botanical gardens—there’s a way for everyone to enjoy themselves! With easy access from central Tokyo, Kawaguchi is the perfect destination for a spontaneous family outing on the weekend.

Make sure to check out the sightseeing spots and enjoy Kawaguchi your own way.

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The gateway to Saitama: Kawaguchi City! 6 recommended tourist spots to visit with the family