Our Picks For The 15 Best Tours & Experiences In Saitama Prefecture

Saitama Prefecture offers a surprisingly diverse range of tours and experiences just a short train ride from Tokyo. Whether you’re after breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji, immersive cultural activities, or exploring local traditions, Saitama has a lot to offer. We especially love the private tour to Mt. Fuji for its stunning vistas and personalized service, and the Sake brewery experience that takes you behind the scenes of Japan’s storied brewing culture. If you’re interested in traditional crafts, the Gyoda Tabi Shoes tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s footwear heritage, and for a taste of local festivals, the Chichibu Festival Tour is unmissable. Each of these experiences provides a genuine look at what makes Saitama special, making this list a perfect guide for planning your trip.

Quick Overview

Saitama’s tours cover a wide spectrum: from spectacular scenic excursions like the Mt. Fuji and Hakone Private Tour with English Speaking Driver, to craft and cultural workshops, such as the Tatami Factory Tour. Adventure lovers can explore mountain hiking or river walks, while those seeking relaxation can indulge in zen meditation and hot springs. For a full picture, read on to discover each experience in detail, and find out which ones suit your travel style.

1. Mt. Fuji and Hakone Private Tour with English Speaking Driver

This private day trip from Tokyo is perfect for anyone wanting to see Japan’s most iconic mountain with minimal hassle. The tour includes stops at Oshino Hakkai, famous for its crystal-clear springs fed by Mt. Fuji’s aquifers, and the Mt. Fuji 5th Station, which offers breathtaking views from 2,200 meters above sea level—accessible by car, so no strenuous hike required. The highlight is Lake Kawaguchiko, where you can enjoy the scenic beauty and ride the Kachi Kachi Ropeway for panoramic views. Oishi Park offers a stunning backdrop for photos, with blooming flowers and Mt. Fuji in the distance.

Guests consistently praise Fahad and Khanz for their friendly and knowledgeable service. One reviewer noted, “They took us to quaint towns and made sure we had good food and enjoyed our time,” which sums up the personalized attention. For around $540, the tour balances comfort, convenience, and unforgettable scenery. It’s best suited for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day with flexibility to customize stops.

Bottom Line: An excellent option for travelers who want to see Mt. Fuji without joining crowded buses or hiking, and who appreciate expert drivers guiding them around.

2. Unique Brewery Tour and One-of-a-Kind Sake Tasting Near Tokyo

This small-group tour is a rare chance to sample doburoku, a traditional unfiltered sake, brewed at Yamane Brewery. The 3.5-hour experience includes a visit to a small, sustainable brewery operating out of a converted convenience store—a real gem. You’ll learn how the brewery uses ancient techniques like wooden barrels, contrasting with modern stainless steel tanks, and get to taste exclusive sake varieties like honey sake and germinated brown rice sake that aren’t available elsewhere.

Participants love the personalized guides who share fascinating insights into sake culture. One reviewer said, “The brewery’s story and handcrafted sake made this a memorable experience.” The tour is ideal for foodies and culture seekers wanting something authentic and offbeat. The price is about $100 per person, making it a worthwhile splurge for a unique taste of Japan’s beverage traditions.

Bottom Line: Perfect if you’re interested in craftsmanship and local flavors, especially for those seeking a deeper dive into Japan’s brewing heritage.

3. Gyoda Tabi Shoes Cultural Walking Tour

Less than an hour from Tokyo, Gyoda City is the heart of Japan’s Tabi shoe production. This 3-hour tour immerses you in the art of traditional footwear, where you select your own pair of Gyoda Tabi Shoes and explore local warehouses. The tour also includes a visit to Yukitadas, where you can enjoy learning about kimono culture and the town’s shoe-making history. Highlights include walking through warehouses dating back centuries and viewing the famous Hachiman Shrine, which is believed to bring blessings.

Participants rave about the hands-on experience and the chance to understand Japan’s footwear craftsmanship firsthand. One review notes, “I loved walking around the warehouses and trying on different tabi socks.” This tour is ideal for those interested in Japanese textiles, traditional crafts, or looking for a unique cultural souvenir.

Bottom Line: A great choice for craft lovers who want an authentic, hands-on look at Japan’s footwear heritage and local culture.

4. Chichibu’s Weaving Story: A Journey of Tradition and Festival

Chichibu’s legendary Silk Heritage and Night Festival are the stars of this 3-hour tour. Visit the Chichibu Meisen Museum to see silk kimono fabrics that became casual wear a century ago, and enjoy live silk-spinning demonstrations. You’ll also walk along the climax route of the famed Chichibu Night Festival, with its massive yatai floats, and explore Banba Street with its early 20th-century architecture.

Guests appreciate the interactive activities, like making coasters from silk, and the insight into traditional festival practices. One reviewer wrote, “The festival floats are breathtaking, and I learned so much about silk weaving’s role in local culture.” This tour suits history and festival fans who enjoy a mix of cultural education and lively atmosphere.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking hands-on crafts and festival insights in a historic setting.

5. Let’s enjoy Japanese Festival Music- Chichibu Yatai Bayashi

This 4-hour experience highlights Chichibu festival music with a visit to the Chichibu Festival Museum, where you can watch a 3D theater and projection mapping of the festival. You’ll also experience live performances of Yatai Bayashi, traditional festival music, played by local musicians. Walking through Chichibu Shrine and the streets lined with shops and cafes, you’ll get a true taste of local festival life.

Reviews mention the unique opportunity to watch festival drums being played and to learn regional music styles. One participant said, “The guide played all the instruments and made it deeply engaging.” This tour is perfect for music lovers or those wanting to immerse in festival culture without the crowds.

Bottom Line: An enriching experience for those interested in traditional Japanese music and festivals in an accessible setting.

6. Ecotourism and Woodcraft with a Mountain Artist Near Tokyo

In a private forest, this 2.5-hour tour introduces you to forestry management, timber crafts, and wooden aromas. Led by a mountain artist, you’ll explore the centuries-old Nishikawa timber and learn about forest thinning and sustainable practices. The highlight is a woodworking session at Kirari, where you’ll receive a lecture and create your own small wooden item.

Guests praise the peaceful setting and the chance to connect with nature’s craftsmanship. One reviewer calls the experience “relaxing and inspiring,” perfect for nature lovers and those interested in traditional Japanese forestry. The tour costs about $94 per person, making it an affordable, meaningful activity.

Bottom Line: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone wanting a mindful connection with Japan’s natural resources.

7. Near Tokyo Guided Zen Temple Experience

This 3-hour guided walk takes you through historic temples in Chichibu, including the famous pilgrimage sites like Nosakaji and Jogenji. You’ll learn proper temple manners, enjoy serene scenery, and end with tea at a local coffee shop. The zen atmosphere provides a peaceful respite from urban life.

Reviews emphasize the authenticity of the experience, with one noting, “We learned so much about Japanese spirituality and enjoyed a calming walk.” It’s perfect for spiritual seekers or those looking for a mindful escape close to Tokyo.

Bottom Line: Excellent for cultural exploration and meditative walks in a tranquil setting.

8. Cultural Sake Brewery Private Tour & Unlimited Tasting Near Tokyo

This 2-hour private tour offers in-depth insight into sake brewing with a focus on traditional wooden barrel techniques. The experience includes a 40-minute tasting of rare sake varieties like honey sake and germinated brown rice sake, in a traditional setting using Hanno ware. It’s a rare chance to understand Japan’s brewing craftsmanship while sampling exclusive brews that aren’t sold commercially.

Participants rave about the culture and the personalized attention from the guides. For only $105, it provides excellent value for anyone interested in Japanese alcohol culture.

Bottom Line: Perfect for culinary travelers eager to learn and taste artisan sake in a traditional setting.

9. Experience Seasonal Green Tea Picking in Sayama and Nostalgic Walk in Kawagoe!

This full-day tour (about 6 hours) combines green tea harvesting in Sayama—famous for its deep-flavored tea—with a stroll through Kawagoe, known as “Little Edo.” You’ll pick fresh tea leaves, then wander the charming streets lined with traditional shops and warehouses. It offers a blend of culinary and cultural experiences, with opportunities to sample local sweet treats and enjoy the historic Edo-period architecture.

Reviews mention the delicious tea and the atmosphere of Kawagoe, calling it a perfect day escape for food lovers and culture enthusiasts. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxing yet enriching experience.

Bottom Line: Great for foodies and history buffs wanting a full day of local flavors and scenery.

10. Nara: 1.5 Hour Private Kasuga Taisha Shrine Tour – World Heritage

Although technically outside Saitama, this Nara tour is included for its cultural depth. In 90 minutes, you’ll visit Kasuga Taisha, a World Heritage site, and Nara Park, home to the sacred deer. The guide provides rich insights into Shinto traditions and the history of the shrine, enhancing your appreciation for Japan’s spiritual sites. The deer roaming freely make it a memorable experience, bridging nature and spirituality.

Rated highly, with visitors noting the expert guidance and beautiful scenery, this tour is perfect for families and cultural explorers. It costs about $117 per person.

Bottom Line: Recommended for those interested in heritage and nature, offering a compact yet meaningful cultural experience.

11. Wellness in Saitama: Takedera Blowing Zen Meditation & Hot Spring

This 6-hour wellness tour centers around zen meditation and hot springs at Takedera in Hanno City. Guided by Mr. Aoyama, you’ll learn the art of blowing Zen meditation, a calming practice that promotes mindfulness. Afterward, relax in an onsen hot spring, enjoying the natural mineral waters.

Guests describe it as “relaxing and personal,” perfect for stress relief and mindfulness. The tour is best suited for wellness seekers who want to combine spiritual practice with thermal relaxation.

Bottom Line: An ideal escape for mindfulness and relaxation, with a touch of Japan’s traditional spiritual culture.

12. Get to know the unique Japanese culture “TATAMi”! Factory tour and experience handmade tatami

This one-hour workshop offers a hands-on experience in tatami mat making, guided by artisans. After witnessing traditional craftsmanship, you’ll craft your own mini tatami mat and enjoy a tea break on it. Souvenirs are available for purchase.

Reviews highlight how engaging and informative this experience is, with one noting, “I learned so much about Tatami and how they are made.” It’s perfect for craft lovers and cultural enthusiasts interested in interior traditions.

Bottom Line: A quick, interactive insight into Japan’s interior culture that leaves you with a tangible souvenir.

13. Countryside Walking & Mountain Hiking in Organic Town Near Tokyo

In Ogawamachi, this 3-4 hour outdoor adventure combines river walks, mountain hikes, and forest bathing. Starting at Mt. Kannokura, you’ll enjoy scenic views and organic farm visits, with the option to include lunch featuring local organic vegetables. The tour emphasizes sustainable agriculture and nature appreciation.

Participants appreciate the relaxing pace and beautiful scenery. One reviewer called it “a refreshing break from city life,” ideal for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.

Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers who enjoy moderate hikes and organic farming experiences.

14. Easy for everyone! Now you can play handmade mini shamisen and show off to everyone!

This two-hour workshop makes playing traditional shamisen accessible and fun. You’ll craft your own mini shamisen, learn a few songs, and enjoy a live performance with tea. The friendly instructor helps beginners and explains the instrument’s history.

Reviewers love how approachable and entertaining the workshop is, with one saying, “I made a shamisen I can keep, and the live music was fantastic.” It’s perfect for music fans and families wanting a hands-on cultural activity.

Bottom Line: Suitable for beginners and music lovers looking for a fun, interactive experience.

15. Sumo Stable Intimate Morning Practice

This 4-hour small-group tour offers a rare look into sumo training at a real stable. You’ll observe early morning practice sessions, listen with audio headsets, and converse informally with sumo wrestlers over tea afterward. The experience is both educational and entertaining, revealing training rituals few outsiders get to see.

Rated highly, one reviewer said, “We watched sumo training up close and then had a traditional lunch with the wrestlers.” It’s suited for sports fans and those interested in Japanese martial arts.

Bottom Line: An exclusive, insider look into sumo culture, perfect for sports enthusiasts and curious travelers.

How to Choose Your Saitama Tour

When selecting the best experience, consider your budget, time available, and your interests. Want iconic scenery? The Mt. Fuji and Hakone Private Tour offers incredible views without strenuous hiking. Interested in crafts and local traditions? The Gyoda Tabi Shoes tour and the Tatami Factory are perfect picks. For festival and culture, the Chichibu Festival Tour and Festival Music are excellent.

If you want relaxation and mindfulness, consider the zen temple or hot spring experiences. Budget-conscious travelers may prefer shorter tours like the Tatami workshop or green tea picking, both offering unique insights at reasonable prices.

Final Thoughts

Saitama’s range of tours and experiences covers everything from stunning mountain vistas to cultural workshops and lively festivals. For travelers seeking breathtaking scenery with minimal effort, the Mt. Fuji and Hakone private tour ranks high for its flexibility and incredible views. For culture enthusiasts, the Gyoda Tabi Shoes and Tatami experience offer hands-on insights into Japan’s craftsmanship.

If festival charm and lively traditions appeal, then the Chichibu Festival Tour or the Festival Music experience will not disappoint. For those craving relaxation, the zen meditation and hot spring tour provides a peaceful escape.

Booking early is advisable—these experiences fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. Whatever your interest, Saitama’s diverse offerings promise a memorable journey just outside Tokyo.