Saitama prefecture (Kantou area)
Nagatoro Gorge
It is designated as a national scenic natural monument and can be enjoyed in any season. The uplifted crystalline schist pavement stretches for hundreds of meters and is called the “Window of the Earth” for its geological value. The river is called “Toro” (pool) where the water is deep and the current is quiet, which is also the origin of the name of Nagatoro. The beauty of the Arakawa River is enhanced by the blue stagnant pools that form around this area of rocky tadami, and the scenery of the entire area is a sight to behold for boat cruising tourists.
Kawagoe
Kawagoe is also called “Kawagoe no Koedo” (Little Edo), as the streets of the Edo period are still well preserved. The stone-paved streets and warehouse-style buildings are a reminder of the atmosphere of the Edo period. It retains the atmosphere of the Edo period, which cannot be seen in Tokyo today. In December 1999, it was selected as one of the “Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings” by the national government, and in January 2007, it was selected as one of the “100 Most Beautiful Historical Climates in Japan.
Hikawa Shrine
Hikawa Shrine is the central shrine of Kawagoe and enshrines Ieyasu Ieyasu (Tokugawa Ieyasu), a feudal lord of the Edo Shogunate. As the phrase “wind tidings” still remains today, Japanese people in the past believed
that the wind carries people’s thoughts and feelings. The cool sound of wind chimes echoing in the precincts of Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine is the sound of many wishes being carried on the wind.
Metropolitan Area Outer Discharge Channel
To help visitors learn more about the role of the Metropolitan Area Outer Discharge Channel, a regional flood control facility, we have further enhanced the attractiveness of the tours and launched a new tour as the second phase of the social experiment. In addition to tours of the very popular underground temple “pressure control tank,” the work corridor, pump room, gas turbine section, and impeller section, which were previously closed to the public, have been newly opened to visitors, and four courses have been set up for the tours.
Sky Poppy
Approximately 12 million poppies are in full bloom on the vast slopes at an elevation of 500 meters.
The contrast between the red of the poppies all over the area and the clear blue sky is spectacular.
Yozan Park
Surrounded by lush greenery, the park is famous for its mossy lawn and cherry blossoms. Located on a hill overlooking the city, the park has long been a favorite place of relaxation for citizens.