Eastern Area
Area Guide
The eastern region of Saitama was historically a key waypoint between Tokyo’s Asakusa and Nikko, and today it continues to preserve the legacy of the Nikko Kaido route. Ancient pine groves line sections of this storied highway, once traversed by the world-famous haiku master Matsuo Basho. This area’s strategic location along the Edo River and other waterways fostered a rich trade and manufacturing industry that endures today. Visitors can immerse themselves in traditional craftsmanship through hands-on experiences in dyeing, tatami-making, and other skills. Meanwhile, modern attractions include the Metropolitan Area Outer Discharge Channel, an architectural wonder said to resemble an underground temple; and the vibrant shopping districts around Kasukabe Station, familiar to many as the setting of beloved anime Crayon Shin-chan.