Hidaka(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Higashi, Saitama, the top family-friendly option is Higashi Minami-kan Guest House, located near the Higashi River and Higashi Nature Park. This homestay offers Japanese-style tatami rooms with kitchenettes, ideal for cooking family meals. Nearby attractions include the Higashi City Library and a children’s playground, perfect for relaxed, low-key vacations. With a 30-minute train ride to Omiya Station, it combines tranquility with excellent access to Tokyo’s urban center.

The best area for peaceful and scenic stays in Higashi is along the Higashi River, close to Higashi Nature Park and Omiya Urban Green Belt. This district offers serene surroundings ideal for nature lovers. Stay at Higashi Riverside Cottage, which features river-view rooms and a private garden. Guests can stroll along the Higashi River Trail, enjoy birdwatching, or simply relax by the water. The area is also near local shops and city hall, offering convenience without sacrificing calm.

Visitors to Higashi can experience the annual Higashi River Festival, a vibrant summer celebration featuring traditional dances, fireworks, and local food stalls. Another highlight is visiting the Higashi City Museum, which showcases the region’s agricultural heritage and Edo-period village life. Travelers can also join hands-on rice planting workshops, where they learn traditional farming techniques and connect with rural community values—offering a meaningful glimpse into Higashi’s living culture.

While Higashi itself has no natural hot springs, nearby Omiya City and northern Saitama Prefecture offer excellent onsen options. Recommended is Omiya Onsen Bijin, just a 25-minute drive away, featuring outdoor baths with views of the Chichibu Mountains. The hotel blends modern comfort with traditional Japanese design. Many guests pair their stay with a visit to the Higashi Agricultural Market, sampling fresh farm-to-table produce—perfect for a holistic rural retreat.

The top cycling route in Higashi is the Higashi River Greenway, an 8-kilometer trail following the Higashi River. Starting at Higashi Bridge, it winds through cherry blossom groves, reed beds, and wetlands, ending at Higashi Nature Park. Along the way, rest stops and scenic viewpoints provide photo ops. Cyclists can also stop at organic produce stands run by the Higashi Agricultural Cooperative, making it a sustainable, immersive journey through local life and landscapes.

Must-try dishes in Higashi include Higashi Wagyu Beef Bowl, made with locally raised premium beef, tender and richly flavored. Another specialty is Higashi River Eel Rice, grilled with sweet soy glaze and served over steamed rice. Sample both at the Higashi Central Market food stalls. During festivals, don’t miss the limited-edition Higashi Mochi, soft and sweet—a cherished regional treat passed down through generations.

Though quiet, Higashi offers charming evening experiences. The Higashi River Night Light Festival (summer only) transforms the riverbanks with colorful illuminations reflecting on the water. The Higashi City Library often hosts late-night book clubs and craft workshops. For relaxation, visit Higashi Riverside Café, where you can sip hand-brewed coffee while listening to the gentle flow of the river. The town’s peaceful ambiance makes it ideal for unwinding after a busy day.

Top photo locations in Higashi include the Higashi River Cherry Blossom Path (spring), Laceleaf Cypress Grove in autumn, and the Higashi Bridge Night View. In spring, blooming cherry trees create a dreamy tunnel effect; in fall, the cypress trees blaze in red and gold hues. The Higashi City Hall Plaza features modern sculptures and green spaces, great for composition. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the seamless blend of nature and urban design—perfect for travel photographers.

A recommended one-day itinerary: Start at 9 AM with a bike ride along the Higashi River Greenway to Higashi Nature Park. Stop for lunch at Higashi Central Market, trying Higashi Wagyu Bowl and Eel Rice. At 1 PM, visit the Higashi City Museum to explore regional history. Then head to the Higashi River Night Light Festival (if in season) or relax at Higashi Riverside Café. Return by evening. Total time: ~6 hours—ideal for a peaceful, immersive rural escape.

Yes, Higashi is pet-friendly, with many guesthouses and restaurants welcoming pets. Stay at Higashi River Pet-Friendly Cottage, which provides pet beds, bowls, and outdoor walking areas. Public parks like Higashi Nature Park and Omiya Urban Green Belt have designated pet zones. The Higashi River Greenway allows pets on leashes, with water stations and resting points. Always check accommodation policies and carry your pet’s vaccination records for a stress-free trip.