Must-Visit in Saitama! 4 Romantic Date Spots to Strengthen Your Bond

When people think of romantic date spots in the Kanto region, Tokyo usually comes to mind first, followed by Yokohama. But when it comes to Saitama, which destinations do you think of? One must-visit is Johnson Town, where you can stroll through charming streets that recreate the feel of suburban America. Another unique experience is visiting places where you can meet adorable baby animals such as koalas and white tigers. In this guide, we’ll introduce some of the best date spots in Saitama that will help couples create lasting memories. If you’re planning a romantic date course in Saitama, let this list inspire your itinerary.

1. Johnson Town

Johnson Town is a unique destination in Iruma City, Saitama, perfect for couples who want to enjoy a date with an authentic American vibe. Built on the site of a former U.S. military residential area, it features preserved U.S. military houses and charming American-style homes, giving visitors the feeling of walking through a suburban neighborhood in the United States. As you stroll around, you can explore quaint general stores, curated select shops, and stylish interior boutiques. There are also cozy cat cafés and inviting restaurants to enjoy.
However, Johnson Town is not a theme park or public park—it’s a residential community. More than half of the houses are occupied by residents, so be mindful not to enter private property or take unauthorized photos. In fact, some visitors fall so in love with the atmosphere that they decide to move here. For those dreaming of living with an overseas flair, renting a home here is an option, and you can check the official website for rental information. Whether you plan to live here or not, it’s worth visiting at least once to enjoy a date that feels like a trip to America without leaving Japan.

2. Tobu Zoo

Located in Miyashiro, Minami-Saitama District, Tobu Zoo is more than just a place for children—it’s an exciting destination that adults can enjoy too. While many think of zoos as family attractions, Tobu Zoo offers experiences that surprise even grown-ups, making it a fantastic date spot.
A must-see here are the rare and fascinating animals such as white tigers and capybaras. The sight of meerkats standing upright is irresistibly cute, and you may even spot baby white tigers or baby meerkats. Sharing these adorable moments can bring couples closer. For a bolder experience, try the “Python Touch Time” for a truly unforgettable thrill. You can also visit the “Fureai Animal Forest” to interact up close with kangaroos, emus, wallabies, alpacas, and snowy owls.
In addition to the animals, Tobu Zoo offers plenty of rides, seasonal events, and year-round access, making it a convenient and fun date destination any time of the year.

3. Saitama Aquarium

When summer heat or rainy days make outdoor activities less appealing, an indoor date at Saitama Aquarium is a perfect choice. This popular spot is a favorite among couples, offering a cozy atmosphere for a memorable day together. One of its best features? The entrance fee is incredibly budget-friendly—only ¥310 per adult, and an annual pass costs just ¥1,030. With such affordable pricing, you can visit multiple times a year and enjoy both a fun and cost-saving date experience.
Inside, the aquarium is designed to mimic the journey of the Arakawa River, stretching approximately 200 km from its upstream area to the estuary. You can see around 70 species of rare fish that inhabit this river. A must-visit highlight is the “Fish Photo Tank”, where you can take stunning, Instagram-worthy shots as if you were inside the tank with the fish.

4. Saitama Children’s Zoo

Despite its name, the Saitama Children’s Zoo is not just for kids—it’s a charming destination where adults can have a great time, too. One of its highlights is the adorable koala exhibit, making it a unique and romantic choice for a date.
The zoo focuses on gentle, plant-eating animals such as capybaras and zebras, creating a calm and relaxing atmosphere. Visitors can also enjoy close encounters with kangaroos and might even spot a baby koala born on September 27, 2016. For more interactive experiences, there’s an area where you can freely touch free-roaming animals, as well as a petting corner to hold rabbits and guinea pigs.

◎ Summary

Saitama offers many wonderful yet underrated date spots. Unlike Tokyo, it’s less crowded, so you can enjoy a relaxed day out. Johnson Town is one surprising hidden gem where you can feel a slice of overseas atmosphere. If you’re unsure where to go for a date in Saitama, let this guide inspire you. Here’s to making your love story bloom—enjoy your special day!