Festivals in Japan have traditionally been deeply rooted in local communities, often linked to Shinto shrines or Buddhist temples. Many began as religious ceremonies to pray for a bountiful harvest and to give thanks for nature’s blessings, and they have been cherished, supported, and passed down through generations.
At the same time, some newer festivals were created as opportunities for interaction between long-time residents and newcomers in growing communities.
Here, I introduce several festivals and events held in Saitama Prefecture. If you are staying in Tokyo, a short trip will allow you to experience these vibrant traditions, carefully preserved by local people, and catch a glimpse of contemporary Japan. I have listed the festivals from September onward.
September
19th(Fri)~ October5th(Sun) Kinchakuda Red Spider Lily Festival
23rd(Tue) Urawa Festival(Parade & Dancing)
27th(Sat) Kita-Urawa Awa Odori Festival
October
11th(Sat) Konosu Fireworks Festival
11th(Sat), 12th(Sun) Tokorozawa Festival
12th(Sun) Sakado Yosakoi Festival
12th(Sun) Ryusei Festival
18th(Sat), 19th(Sun) Kawagoe Festival
25th(Sat), 26th(Sun) Iruma Mandou Festival
November
3rd(Mon) Ningyo(Doll) Memorial Service (Iwatsuki)
3rd(Mon) “Yabusame” at Izumo Iwai Shrine (Moroyama)
3rd(Mon) Iruma Air Show
9th(Sun) Sayama Grand Tea Ceremony
December
2nd(Tue), 3rd(Wed) Chichibu Night Festival
January
Popular Shrines and Temples for New Year Visits in Saitama
January is the peak season for Hatsumode, the first shrine or temple visit of the New Year.
The following shrines and temples attract large crowds every January.
Musashi Ichinomiya Hikawa Shrine (Saitama City)
The most visited shrine in Saitama during the New Year period.
Chichibu Shrine (Chichibu City)
A historic shrine at the heart of Chichibu, popular for New Year prayers.
Mitsumine Shrine (Chichibu City)
A mountain shrine known for its powerful atmosphere and wolf guardians.
Washinomiya Shrine (Kuki City)
One of the oldest shrines in the Kanto region, drawing many New Year visitors.
Kawagoe Daishi Kita-in Temple (Kawagoe City)
A major Buddhist temple; the famous Daruma Market is held on January 3.
Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine (Kawagoe City)
A popular shrine for matchmaking and family happiness.
Koma Shrine (Hidaka City)
A historic shrine associated with the ancient Koma clan, widely visited in January.