Having one of the most advanced transportation networks of Japan, Saitama is the biggest city and the center of Saitama Prefecture, located in the Kanto region in the north of Tokio. Having a population around 1.300.000, Saitama is located 20-25 kilometres away to the city centre of Tokio. The cities of Urawa, Omiya and Yono merged and were named “Saitama” in 2001. Then, the town Iwatsuki was also included in the borders of Saitama Prefecture in 2005. Saitama is a leading city not only for its advanced industry, trade and tourism sectors but also for its internationally reputed universities and offering an economic and wealthy life. Omiya Station in Saitama is known as the transportation center of Great Tokio Area. Thanks to its well-advanced railway system, you can easily travel to each region in Japan from Saitama. Moreover, the worldwide famous Saitama Super Arena is both the stadium of the prestigious baseball team Seibu Lions and the place where the matches of AFC Champions League were held in 2007. Besides, many world stars such as Whitney Houston, Lady Gaga and Coldplay have performed in Saitama. You can try many interesting, yet unknown tastes of Japanese cuisine in Saitama, where the deep-rooted traditions have been protected until today since Edo period, also known as Tokugawa period. This region is one of the biggest wheat producers of the world and the most famous specialties you will come across here are noodle and eels. In addition, it is possible to find snacks such as sweet potato candies, miso potatoes, rice crackers etc. almost everywhere. You can taste both traditional and modern Japanese food in Saitama.
