[9 Giant Spots in Saitama] Incredible Large-Scale Places You Wouldn’t Expect So Close to Tokyo

A massive underground flood control facility built to prevent flood damage in the greater Tokyo area. This huge piece of infrastructure takes in water from swollen rivers underground and channels it into the Edo River, and the scale of its interior is breathtaking.
On the tour, visitors can step into the pressure-adjusting water tank lined with towering pillars, where a grand sight unfolds that hardly feels like it is underground. Because the scene looks like a giant underground temple, it is also affectionately known as the “Underground Disaster Prevention Temple.” It is a Saitama-only sightseeing spot where you can truly feel the power of a gigantic structure.

A museum where you can learn about how Japanese coins are made. Inside, exhibits introduce the history of currency and the manufacturing process, letting visitors discover how the coins they use every day are actually produced. Located next to a Japan Mint facility, the museum also offers a closer look at the world behind coin production. Visitors can even watch the moment everyday coins are being made. It is an intellectually stimulating spot where you can experience the hidden side of the money that supports society.

An observation park set among the mountains of Chichibu. From the park near the summit, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the Chichibu Basin, where the broad townscape and surrounding mountains create a magnificent scene.
The changing natural scenery through the seasons is also part of its charm, and it is a popular stop for drives and hikes. At night, the night view over the Chichibu Basin spreads out below, offering a superb景色 selected as one of Japan’s 100 Best Night Views. While looking out over a nightscape on a different scale from the daytime, take in the grand scenery of Chichibu.

An artificial lake straddling Tokorozawa City and Iruma City, known as a reservoir that helps support the water supply of the greater Tokyo area. From the embankment and walking paths around the lake, visitors can enjoy peaceful scenery created by the wide water surface and the surrounding hills.
Another appeal is the open feeling of the landscape, which is hard to believe is so close to the city. The area around the lake is part of Sayama Prefectural Nature Park and is known for its beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons. Take a relaxing walk along the lakeshore and enjoy the natural breadth of the Kanto Plain.

A national park spread across hilly land that straddles Namegawa Town and Kumagaya City in Saitama Prefecture. The grounds make use of the rolling terrain and feature lawn plazas, flower gardens, and walking paths scattered throughout, creating a relaxing space to enjoy nature.
One of its distinctive features is the chance to enjoy seasonal flowers and natural scenery across its vast grounds. In spring, Approx. 400 cherry trees, mainly Somei Yoshino, burst into bloom and beautifully color the park together with forsythia and wild cherry blossoms. It is a place where you can enjoy nature’s changing expressions from season to season while walking through the expansive grounds.

A large park developed to make use of Musashino’s natural environment. Its spacious grounds are home to a zoo, botanical garden, sports facilities, and fishing area, making it a multi-purpose park where visitors can enjoy everything from strolling to leisure activities.
In addition to seasonal flowers, it is also popular for observing wild birds, insects, and fireflies. Despite being close to the city, it offers abundant nature and beautiful scenery throughout the seasons. Take a leisurely walk and enjoy the Musashino nature spread across this large park.

An animal park spread out in the natural surroundings of the Hiki Hills. In its large grounds, visitors can see a wide variety of animals, while playground equipment and hands-on facilities make it possible to enjoy both animal watching and play.
Another appeal is the chance to relax in a setting surrounded by nature. The park also features playgrounds, athletic play equipment, dinosaur monuments, and Kodomo no Shiro, where children can play even on rainy days, creating a space where both animal watching and play can be enjoyed. Spend time connecting with animals and nature as you explore the vast grounds.

One of the largest shopping centers in Japan, located in Koshigaya City. Its enormous grounds are lined with numerous specialty stores and restaurants, offering a wide variety of shopping including fashion, accessories, and gourmet food.
The huge commercial area spread out in front of the station feels impressively large even when you are simply walking through it. Right next to the outlet area is a large regulating reservoir, along with walking paths and lawn plazas, so it is also recommended to take a stroll while you are there for shopping. Enjoy both shopping and a walk while taking in the scale that only a giant commercial facility can offer.

A large shopping mall in Kuki City. Inside the spacious building, specialty stores and restaurants line the halls, creating a place where you can enjoy shopping and dining at a relaxed pace. The interior is divided into zones, making it easy to walk around while still giving a sense of its size. The three-story mall is organized into multiple zones such as “Bangai” and “Taki no Court,” creating a vast yet easy-to-navigate layout. Enjoy shopping at a relaxed pace while taking in the scale that only a large mall can offer.