Saitama Japan Travel Guide
Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT) is a primary international gateway to Japan. Tokyo Haneda International Airport (HND) acts as a major international and domestic gateway, positioned closer to Saitama City.
Both NRT and HND have wide-ranging facilities. These include duty-vat-free shopping, diverse restaurants, currency exchange services, ATMs, luggage services, and the airport hotels. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout both airports.
Many direct flights connect NRT and HND to major global hubs.
Lower prices are attainable during rainy season (June) and winter (Jan-Feb, non-holiday).
Domestic carriers include JAL, ANA, and various LCCs. Find deals on Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.
Especially during peak seasons, secure your flights well before travel.
Use flight search websites to find the best deals.
Omiya The station in Saitama City functions as a junction for Shinkansen (bullet trains) and numerous JR (Japan Railways) and private railway lines.
Numerous highway coach services connect Saitama City (e.g., Omiya Station, Saitama Shintoshin Bus Terminal) to other major cities across Japan. Companies like JR Bus and Willer Express operate these services.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention is for foreign visitors to drive within Japan. You also need a valid driver's license from your home country. Find car rentals on DiscoverCars.com.
Roads are generally safe and well-signposted, often with English translations. Japan drives on the left-hand side of the road. Chauffeurs are typically courteous. Stay aware of pedestrians and cyclists, notably in residential areas.
An International Tourist Tax, a ¥1,000 "Kokosai Kanko Zei," is part of airfare or boat tickets for departures out of Japan. This tax supports tourism infrastructure. This tax applies to most departures.
Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND) airports offer extensive amenities for departing travelers. These include duty-free shops, diverse restaurants, lounges, and relaxation areas. These facilities enhance the leaving experience.
The ¥1,000 tourist tax supports Japan's tourism infrastructure.
Allow plenty of time for airport procedures for a stress-free departure.
Offers shops, restaurants, and waiting areas for train departures.
Japan is an island nation without land borders. Therefore, border crossing information related to land routes does not concern travel to or from Saitama City. Every international arrivals and departures are via air or sea ports.
The main focus for international travelers reaching Japan, and subsequently Saitama City, remains on air travel through Tokyo's Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND) airports, or via international cruise ports in Tokyo or Yokohama.
Standard immigration at NRT/HND with passport and visa (if applicable).
Border control at cruise ports follows similar procedures.
Passport, visa (if needed), return ticket, and proof of funds.
For Saitama City, your journey to Japan will entirely by air or sea. Plan your international travel through Tokyo's major airports.
