Major Events & Festivals in Saitama, Japan
1. Saitama Hanabi Tanabata Festival
A dazzling fireworks display on the star festival of Tanabata. Features traditional Japanese food and dance.
- Unique Fireworks: One of the largest fireworks shows in Japan, with over 30,000 fireworks launched
- Tanabata Storytelling: Stories about the star-crossed lovers Orihime and Hikoboshi are told throughout the event
- Food Stalls: Authentic Japanese food stalls offering local specialties like yakitori and takoyaki
2. Saitama Super Arena Concerts
World-class music performances at the iconic Saitama Super Arena.
- Top International Acts: Hosts concerts by top international artists like Ariana Grande, BTS, and Black Sabbath
- Spacious Venue: The largest indoor arena in Japan, seating over 37,000 people
- Accessibility: Easy access by train, with the Saitama Super Arena Station on the Tokyo Metro
3. Saitama Children's Festival (Kodomo no Hi)
Celebrating children at local parks with traditional performances and activities.
- Community Spirit: Brings together families and the community for a fun-filled day
- Traditional Performances: Features traditional Japanese dance, music, and crafts
- Free Activities: Most activities are free or low cost, making it affordable for everyone
4. Saitama International Balloon Festival
A colorful spectacle of hot air balloons filling the sky.
- Hot Air Balloon Rides: Opportunity to take a tethered or untethered ride in a hot air balloon
- Night Glow: Balloons light up in synchronization during the night, creating a mesmerizing effect
- International Participation: Participants from around the world showcase their unique balloon designs
5. Saitama Festival (Saifu Matsuri)
A lively festival celebrating Saitama's history and culture, with parades, food, and performances.
- Historical Parade: A grand parade featuring traditional floats and performers
- Food Stalls: Local delicacies, including the famous Saitama sake
- Culture Expo: Exhibits showcasing Saitama's rich history and culture
6. Saitama Anniversary Carnival
Annual carnival celebrating Saitama's founding anniversary with games, food, and performances.
- Games and Prizes: Win prizes by participating in fun games and activities
- Food Stalls: A variety of food stalls offering regional specialties
- Live Performances: Live music and dance performances on multiple stages
7. Kawagoe Festival (Kawagoe Matsuri)
A traditional festival in Kawagoe City featuring parades of float processions.
- Historical Floats: Larger-than-life floats showcasing Kawagoe's history and culture
- Night Parade: A breathtaking night parade with the floats illuminated by lanterns
- Local Food: Taste local specialties like kagetsu-manju and imoni (chuckling lentils)
8. Saitama Peony Festival
A beautiful display of peonies at the Saitama Mother's Peony Garden.
- Peony Varieties: Over 50 varieties of peonies, blooming from late April to mid-May
- Garden Tour: Guided tours of the garden, explaining the history and cultivation of peonies
- Photography Opportunities: Ideal for photography enthusiasts, with stunning backdrops of blooming peonies
9. Saitama Art Festival
A contemporary art festival showcasing international and Japanese artists.
- Art Installations: Large-scale installations in various locations across the city
- Performances: Dance, music, and theater performances by renowned artists
- Workshops: Art workshops for visitors to create their own pieces or learn new techniques
10. Saitama International Film Festival (SAIFF)
A film festival showcasing works from around the world.
- Film Screenings: Screenings of award-winning and independent films
- Q&A Sessions: Opportunities to interact with filmmakers during Q&A sessions
- International Focus: Emphasis on films from diverse cultures and perspectives
11. Saitama Wine Festival
A wine festival featuring local and international wines.
- Wine Tasting: Opportunity to taste a variety of wines from around the world
- Food Pairing: Pairings of wine with local and international cuisine
- Wine Workshops: Workshops on wine tasting, appreciation, and pairing
12. Saitama Cherry Blossom Festival
A cherry blossom festival featuring illuminated night views of blooming sakura trees.
- Cherry Blossoms: Over 1,000 Yaezakura (double-flowered cherry blossoms) in full bloom
- Night Illumination: The park is illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere
- Food Stalls: Traditional Japanese food stalls offering local delicacies
13. Saitama Autumn Leaves Festival
A festival celebrating the autumn leaves with beautiful scenic views.
- Autumn Leaves Scenery: Gorgeous views of red, orange, and yellow leaves
- Nature Walks: Guided nature walks through the scenic areas
- Local Food: Taste local specialties like kuri manju (chestnut buns)
14. Saitama Sekitei Bonsai Exhibition
An exhibition showcasing over 2,000 bonsai trees and related exhibits.
- Bonsai Collection: Over 2,000 bonsai trees, including national treasures and important cultural properties
- Artistic Bonsai: Beautifully designed and sculpted bonsai trees
- Bonsai Workshops: Workshops for visitors to learn about bonsai care and design
15. Saitama Matsuri-yaki Pottery Festival
A festival celebrating the traditional pottery of Saitama with demonstrations and sales.
- Pottery Demonstrations: Demos by master potters using centuries-old techniques
- Pottery Sales: Opportunity to purchase unique, handcrafted pottery
- Traditional Performance: Performances of traditional Japanese music and dance