You know, sometimes I think about how lucky I am to live just a stone’s throw from Saitama. Especially in autumn, when the leaves start turning those fiery shades of red, yellow, and orange. I recently took one of my spontaneous trips—packed my camera and a warm scarf and headed straight for Saitama’s best-kept secret spots for fall foliage. Let me tell you, it was a feast for the eyes and the soul.
Longing for Nature? Try Nagatoro Gorge
Nagatoro Gorge is a must-visit, especially if you’re an autumn fan like me. Picture this: you’re on a boat gently gliding down the river, surrounded by vibrant maple and oak trees, their colors reflecting in the clear water. I was in awe and a little cold, not gonna lie, but it was worth it. The best part? The annual Nagatoro Autumn Leaves Festival. The illuminated trees in Tsukinoishi Momiji Park were something out of a dream. And guess what? Entry is free! Just hop off at Nagatoro Station, and you’re there in five minutes.
Moominvalley Park: For a Whimsical Spin on Fall
Next up was Moominvalley Park, a place that feels like stepping into a Nordic fairytale. The park is free to enter, though some activities might cost a bit. The lake surrounded by golden ginkgo leaves is a sight to behold. If you’re lucky, you might catch the reflection of the leaves in the water—it’s like nature’s own mirror. And if you’re there in September, don’t miss the Northern Europe-themed fireworks. It’s a whole new level of magic.
Hidden Temples and Shrines: A Quiet Retreat
What surprised me the most were the tucked-away temples and shrines. Like Togo Park’s Chichibu Mitake Shrine. It’s not your regular tourist spot, trust me. The grounds are massive, 15,000 tsubo to be precise, all blanketed in rich colors. They even hold a Momiji Festival in November. I paid just ¥100 (about $0.70 USD), which was a steal for such a picturesque experience.
Another gem is Torii Kannon, where a tall, white Buddha statue complements the crimson maples perfectly. The hike up is refreshing, and the views? Absolutely worth the climb and the ¥200 (about $1.40 USD) entrance fee. And don’t even get me started on the peaceful vibes at Heirinji Temple. It’s a living Zen monastery, so keep it quiet and respectful. The entrance here is a bit more at ¥500 (about $3.50 USD), but the tranquility is priceless.
If you’re planning to dive into Saitama’s autumn palette, do it soon. And maybe take a friend. It’s one of those places where you want to turn to someone and just say, ‘Wow, did you see that?’ If you do go, let me know what you think. I’m already planning my next visit—just not in the middle of a typhoon this time!
