Sanpō Mountain

Mount Sanpō is a mountain located between Saitama and Nagano Prefectures. It has a high elevation and spans both prefectures. Kumotori Mountain also extends slightly into Saitama, but it is known as the highest mountain in Tokyo. When you climb these mountains, you can enjoy great views and nature. In Saitama Prefecture, a marker sign is posted at the summit of Mount Sanpō.

FamilyMart

FamilyMart’s first store opened in Sayama City, Saitama Prefecture. It originally started as a small shop for experimental purposes, but it continued operating and has since been renamed “Irumasō Store.” It is known for being located in Saitama Prefecture as the starting point of the convenience store chain that spread across Japan.

Fukka-chan

Fukka-chan is the yuru-chara (local mascot) of Fukaya City in Saitama Prefecture. Created to promote the city’s image, it’s a fictional creature that looks like a mix between a rabbit and a deer. It has horn-like shapes on its head modeled after Fukaya’s specialty, Fukaya green onions, and its colors are the white and green of the onions. It promotes the city at events and through merchandise, and is popular with both children and adults.

Garigari-kun

Akagi Nyugyo, located in Fukaya City, Saitama Prefecture, is a company famous for its ice pop called Garigari-kun. Although its name includes the word “nyugyo” (dairy), it doesn’t make milk or cheese—only ice cream. Starting with the nationwide favorite Garigari-kun, they produce ice cream in a variety of flavors.

wind chime

At Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, more than 2,000 wind chimes are hung in the precincts every summer. Visitors can walk beneath the chimes, and when the wind blows, they make a cool, tinkling sound. Listening to this as you walk can make even a hot summer day feel a bit cooler. It’s a popular summer event among both locals and tourists.

Kounosushi

Kōnosu City is located around the central area of Saitama Prefecture. In the past, it flourished as a bustling post town where people and goods came and went. Even today, it has excellent transportation access and is known for hosting the only driver’s license center in Saitama Prefecture. The city also features various attractions, such as an annual Hina doll festival and expansive flower fields.

okara (soy pulp)

Jelly-fry has gradually become known as a local specialty of Saitama Prefecture. It looks similar to a croquette, but it isn’t breaded. It’s a dish made by mixing mainly okara (soy pulp) with ingredients like potatoes and carrots, shaping it, and deep-frying it. Served hot, it’s slightly crispy on the outside and soft inside, and has long been loved by locals. Because its shape resembles an old oval Japanese coin called a koban, it was called “zeni-fry,” which over time slurred into the name “jelly-fry.”