5 must-visit tourist spots in Saitama to enjoy even in the cold winter! Nordic forests and illuminations

During winter, people tend to avoid going out to escape the cold, but Saitama offers plenty of excellent tourist spots that can be enjoyed even in winter. From parks with a Nordic atmosphere to the nostalgic streets of Kawagoe, as well as zoos and amusement parks, there are many places where you can experience the unique pleasures of winter.

Illuminations in Saitama vary from stylish, urban displays to large-scale spectacles. This article introduces recommended tourist spots in Saitama where you can enjoy this winter to the fullest. Use it as a reference for outings during the winter holidays or Christmas season.

1. Kawagoe: A winter tourist spot in Saitama where you can enjoy the scenery of the Edo Period

Kawagoe, known as “Little Edo,” is a tourist destination in Saitama famous for its preserved Edo-period streets. The rows of earthen-walled warehouse buildings create a nostalgic atmosphere, making it an ideal area for a stroll. A highlight of the town is the “Toki no Kane” (Bell of Time), which chimes at set times every day. The streets of Kawagoe are also dotted with old-fashioned candy shops, and their nostalgic treats are a perfect companion for a leisurely walk.

From January 1 to 7 each year, the “Koedo Kawagoe Seven Lucky Gods Tour” takes place, where visitors walk about 6 km to visit seven temples around the city. Completing the course in about half a day will warm you up even in winter. It’s a great way to combine good health with good fortune! Walking through the storehouse town, the Bell of Time, and the candy shop alleys while visiting the Seven Lucky Gods makes this event especially recommended. Kawagoe is easily accessible from outside Saitama and attracts many tourists from the Tokyo area. Enjoy a winter sightseeing stroll with family or a partner while savoring the charm of the old streets.

2. Kingdom of Snow and Illumiage: Popular winter-only attractions at Seibu-en Amusement Park

Seibu-en Amusement Park is one of the largest amusement parks in Saitama Prefecture. In addition to classic attractions like the giant Ferris wheel, Viking ship, and merry-go-round, the park features original rides and seasonal or limited-time attractions.

Children can enjoy “Find It! Legendary Attra,” where you select from five courses of varying difficulty, and the “Magic Mirror Maze.” Adults can have fun with the park’s original attraction, “TAF.ZONE,” a survival game using silver ball pop guns. In “Fairy Tale Town,” visitors can spend time with Sanrio characters, take photos with them, play games, and enjoy seven different attractions including the Hello Kitty Train, Angel Coaster, and battery cars. Weekend shows are popular with both children and adults.

In winter, the park hosts a massive illumination event called “Illumiage”! Visitors can enjoy beautiful light displays throughout the park, enhanced with projection mapping and water curtain effects. It’s also highly recommended as a romantic winter date spot. Additionally, the winter-exclusive “Kingdom of Snow” attraction, where visitors can enjoy sledding and playing in the snow, has become a highlight of the season.

3. Tobu Zoo Park: Enjoy the zoo, amusement park, botanical garden, and illuminations

Tobu Zoo Park is another tourist spot in Saitama that is perfect for winter. In the zoo area, you can see 1,200 animals from 120 different species across four zones: African Savannah, Exciting Street, Relaxing Street, and Thrilling Street. There is also the “Hotarium,” where you can enjoy fireflies year-round, “Cat World,” where you can see white tigers and lions, and the “Fureai Animal Forest,” where you can touch and interact with animals. Visitors can easily lose track of time enjoying these experiences.

The amusement park zone, “Heartful Land,” features around 30 different attractions. It includes thrilling rides like the “New Gliding Coaster Kawasemi” and the “Regina Wooden Water Coaster,” as well as family-friendly rides like “Mr. Horn’s Farm Railway” and the “Air Transport Skyfish.” At the center of the park is “Ms. Emma’s Cheese Ferris Wheel,” which offers a 360-degree panoramic view.

The full-scale botanical zone, “Heartful Garden,” allows visitors to enjoy a variety of flowers and fruits throughout the seasons. The “Blessing of the Sun Railway Park Line,” connecting East Gate Station and Heartful Land Station, makes it easy to move around the park while enjoying the scenery. In the winter evenings, Tobu Zoo Park transforms with beautiful illuminations, making it a lively and exciting winter destination in Saitama.

4. Cocoon City Illuminations: Experience sophisticated light displays

The charm of Cocoon City lies in its dazzling illuminations! Even in the cold season, the beauty of the lights warms the hearts of those who see them. Known for its spectacular illumination displays, Cocoon City has become a popular spot for couples and is now attracting many visitors from outside the prefecture as well.

Highlights include the waterfall-inspired “Cocoon Fall,” the approximately 10-meter-tall “Mt. Cocoon” tree, and three streets decorated with stunning light performances. Cocoon City is also known for its lighting ceremony, which often features appearances by celebrities. If you’re looking for a winter evening outing destination, Cocoon City is a perfect choice.

Name: Cocoon City Address: 4-263-1 Kishiki-cho, Omiya-ku, Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture Official/Related Website: http://www.cocooncity.jp/

When thinking of the cold winter season, many imagine Northern Europe, but traveling there takes both time and money. Saitama offers a popular tourist spot where you can easily enjoy that Nordic ambiance: Akebono Children’s Forest Park. The park is rich in nature and offers beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons, but winter is when the Nordic atmosphere truly shines.

The park recreates the world of Finnish fairy tales. Surrounded by dawn redwoods, a stream flows through the park, and the open fields allow for free play. Visitors can enjoy whimsical spots like the “Mushroom House,” the pointed-roof “Bathing Hut,” a library where you can read picture books, and a children’s theater. Stamp rallies and various events are also held, offering a different experience from regular theme parks. Its convenient access makes it a popular winter destination for those seeking a Nordic experience without leaving the Tokyo area.

◎ Summary

Saitama is home to many winter tourist spots, each warmly welcoming visitors with heartfelt hospitality. This winter, why not warm your heart by visiting Saitama’s charming attractions?