Festivals & MatsuriFree
FAQs
What's On Japan curates events in Saitama daily from Japanese-language sources — festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, food events, and more. All listings are translated and updated regularly in English.
Yes — most traditional matsuri and shrine festivals in Saitama are free to attend. Many museums have free admission days. Use the Free filter above to see only zero-cost events.
What's On Japan translates events from Japanese sources daily. All listings on this page are in English. Filter by category, date, or use the free toggle to find events matching your interests.
About Saitama
Saitama is often dismissed as a commuter prefecture but that reputation obscures a genuinely rich local event culture. Kawagoe's Hikawa Festival, with its ornate floats and mechanical puppets, rivals anything in Kyoto for sheer spectacle. Chichibu's winter Yomatsuri, held in December, is one of Japan's most dramatic night festivals.
Explore Saitama by Area
Omiya & Urawa
Twin city centres with Hikawa Shrine festivals, Saitama Super Arena concerts, and cherry blossom events along the Motoarakawa.
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