| Hikawa
Shrine |
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One of Japan's oldest shrines dating back some 2,400 yearsk, the shrine
has long been revered by the Imperial family, shoguns and feudal lords
of old as well as the general populace. Proceeding along the 2-km-long
approach, an impressive vermilion tower-gate looms into sight, with
several other stately structures behind it. The ajacent Omiya Park
is an oasis for the local residents, dotted with the prefectural museum
and recreational/sports facilities. The park comes alive with visitors
in early April when some 1,200 cherry trees burst into bloom. |
| Saitama
Shin-toshin |
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The Saitama shin-toshin urban center was opened in May 2000 as the
"new face " of Saitama City. The complex is next to the
JR Saitama shin-toshin Sta. and is comprised of various facilities
such as the futuristic Saitama Super arena as well as lodging accommodations,
shopping and dining facilities. The Saitama Super Arena, a movable
facility that can hold a various events from a small to a large-scale
one, is especially well known as it houses a museum dedicated to John
Lennon of "The Beatles" fame. Hence it attracts a large
number of visitors and families on weekends and holidays. At Keyaki-Hiroba
square, with full of verdure, events like flea markets take place
from time to time. Why not join us and pay a visit to the Saitama
Shin-toshin? |
| Bonsai
Village |
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Known as "Bonsai-mura," the Bonsai-cho neighborhood, north
of Omiya Park and close to the Tobu Noda Line's Omiya-koen Sta. is
famous throughout Japan and overseas for its concentration of over
ten "bonsai" farms. There are even young apprentices from
the West sho are in residence to learn the art of bonsai. Each farm
puts on display a proud plethora of pots of elaborately grown bonsai,
attracting a virtual flow of visitors. The village is truly a wonderland
for bansai lovers.
Hours open:9a.m. - 5p.m.
Closed:Thursdays
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