Experience Japan from Above: A 1,000-meter High Hot Air Balloon Adventure & Local Tour Guide

As dawn breaks over the Watarase Wetland Reserve, sunlight bathes the sweeping grasslands and meandering rivers below, creating a mesmerizing vista best viewed from the basket of a hot air balloon. Through the Winning Balloon Club, visitors can embark on an unforgettable journey carried by the winds. At 1,000 meters above ground, you’ll witness a breathtaking panorama where four prefectures meet – layers of mountain ranges stretch to the horizon, vast plains unfold beneath you, and rivers twist like ribbons through the landscape. Here, far removed from the bustle of daily life, you’ll discover the harmonious beauty of Japan’s natural world. Each season paints the wetlands in different hues, from autumn’s golden grasslands to winter mornings shrouded in mysterious mist.

The prime ballooning season runs from October through April, with flights piloted by professionals who have competed in World Hot Air Balloon Championships. English-guided tours make this experience accessible to international visitors, perfect for creating lasting memories with your travel companions.

For those new to ballooning or pressed for time, the “tethered flight” experience offers a taste of balloon aviation. Rising 15-30 meters above ground while secured by ropes, you can enjoy close-up views of the wetlands and experience the unique sensation of floating while enjoying the crisp morning breeze.

For the perfect complement to your early morning balloon flight, we recommend booking a stay at SOLABASE, a charming guest house just minutes from the launch site. Run by a hot air balloon pilot, this renovated traditional Japanese house beautifully blends classic architecture with modern comforts, offering visitors an authentic taste of local hospitality. The property also features luxury glamping tents, fully equipped with modern amenities – an ideal option for first-time campers looking to experience Japan’s natural beauty in comfort.

With SOLABASE as your home base, you’ll have an easy early morning commute to the balloon launch site to begin your adventure. In the evening, gather around the BBQ with fellow guests and balloon enthusiasts, sharing stories and learning more about the fascinating world of hot air ballooning from those who know it best.
Lodging reservations:
https://www.solabase.com/en/stay

Address: 1663-1, Onofukuro, Kazo-shi, Saitama
To get to Watarase Wetland Reserve from central Tokyo, we recommend you take a train or a car.
Train: Take the Tobu Nikko Line to Yagyu Station and walk about 15 minutes.
Car: Approximately 20 minutes by car from the Kazo IC.
*Yagyu Station area is outside local taxi service zones. Taxi service is not available for transport to SOLA Base.

After your morning balloon flight (which concludes around 8:00 am), the day is yours to discover the area’s hidden gems. These three distinct tours showcase the region’s history, traditional culture, and natural wonders. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or authentic local experiences, there’s a perfect itinerary waiting for you.
Two recommended routes are centered around Gyoda City, just an hour’s drive from the Watarase Wetland Reserve – making them ideal follow-ups to your aerial adventure. Let your journey continue from the skies to the streets!

Oshi Castle in Gyoda City stands as a testament to medieval Japanese engineering, built during the Bunmei era (1469-1486) of the Muromachi period. Being the only fortress that the legendary warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi failed to conquer. In 1590, even when Ishida Mitsunari, one of Hideyoshi’s top generals, attempted to flood the castle, it earned its nickname “”The Floating Castle”” by remaining steadfast against the siege. Today, this historical marvel welcomes visitors as a heritage park, where you can stroll through centuries-old fortifications, including the original moats and earthen walls. The reconstructed “Gosankai Yagura” three-story turret now houses a fascinating museum, showcasing artifacts that bring the city’s rich history to life. The exhibits offer deep insights into the region’s historical evolution and cultural significance.

Address: 17-23, Honmaru, Gyoda-shi, Saitama
Access: 15 min. walk from Gyoda-shi Station of Chichibu Railway

Ninja & Samurai Experiences at Oshi Castle
Beyond exploring the historic castle grounds, visitors can immerse themselves in Japan’s “”bushido”” warrior heritage through two unique interactive experiences: the Oshi Castle Ninja Adventure and the Samurai Transformation Experience. Here’s what each offers:

●Ninja Experience at Oshi Castle
Step into the shadows as you don authentic ninja garb and master the art of “”shuriken”” (throwing stars) under expert guidance. This immersive adventure lets you explore the castle grounds as a mysterious shadow warrior, combining hands-on ninja training with an exciting castle tour. Each session blends historical education with fun, creating an unforgettable fantasy experience.
Reservations:
https://www.gyoda-kankoukyoukai.jp/en/archives/tour/oshi-castle-ninja-experience

●Transform into a Samurai at Oshi Castle
Experience the honor of becoming a Japanese warrior by donning samurai armor and wielding a Japanese sword. This immersive experience lets you step back in time and embody the noble spirit of Japan’s legendary samurai.
Reservations:
https://www.gyoda-kankoukyoukai.jp/en/archives/tour/oshi-castle-samurai-costmume-experience
These immersive experiences allow you to step back in time and embody the spirit of Japan’s legendary samurai and ninja. For an even more memorable experience, you can opt for a professional photography service where skilled photographers will capture your transformation with stunning shots throughout the castle grounds and in a traditional studio setting. To deepen your understanding of Japanese history, you can combine your costume experience with a multilingual guided tour of Oshi Castle, bringing the fortress’s rich past to life.

The Tabi Capital of Japan
Welcome to Gyoda, the birthplace of Japan’s tabi footwear tradition. Here, master craftsmen still create these distinctive split-toe shoes through meticulous handwork, from cutting cotton fabric to the final detailed stitching. Every pair tells a story of dedication to perfection. Gyoda’s tabi-making heritage dates back to the 18th century, when the local feudal lord encouraged samurai families to develop the craft. The city soon became Japan’s tabi manufacturing hub, producing over 80% of the nation’s supply. This rich history earned Gyoda recognition as a Japan Heritage Site in 2017 under the title “”Gyoda: City of the Tabi Storehouses.””

While modern manufacturing has largely replaced traditional methods, several Gyoda workshops proudly preserve the art of hand-crafting tabi. These workshops serve as both working studios and living museums, safeguarding centuries of craftsmanship. During the guided tour, visitors can explore historic workshops to observe the traditional tabi-making process, visit the “”Tabi Warehouse District”” with its remarkably preserved historic storehouses, and soak in the nostalgic atmosphere of old Japan. Throughout your journey, our guides will help you discover the fascinating connection between Oshi Castle and the city’s tabi culture.
For tabi-making experience reservations:
https://saitama-supportdesk.com/experiences/post-24857/

Born from hope in 2020, amid the challenges of the pandemic, Gyoda Hachiman Shrine began placing flowers in their “chozuya” traditional water basins to lift visitors’ spirits. This simple act of beauty quickly blossomed into a citywide movement. Soon, Sakitama Shrine, local businesses, and residents joined in, transforming the city with fragrant floral displays that brought warmth and color to every corner.

Today, hanachozu has become one of Gyoda’s most cherished attractions. From the 1st through the 14th of each month (with special dates from the 15th to month-end in November and January), the city comes alive with these elegant water-and-flower arrangements. You’ll find these artistic displays everywhere – from the historic grounds of Oshi Castle to Gyoda Hachiman Shrine, and throughout the shopping districts and residential areas, creating a lively and romantic atmosphere throughout the city. Since 2021, the experience has expanded to include evening illuminations. Under the theme “”Light of Hope,”” these nighttime displays transform the hanachozu into magical scenes of light and color, creating an enchanting atmosphere for both locals and visitors alike.
For hanachozu experience reservations at Oshi Castle:
https://saitama-supportdesk.com/experiences/post-24764/

Roadside Station Kazo-Watarese
Roadside Stations are rest facilities located along major roads throughout Japan. The Roadside Station Kazo-Watarase in Kazo City, Saitama Prefecture, is a multipurpose complex where visitors can enjoy tourist attractions, take a break from their journey, and go shopping. The station’s observation deck offers a breathtaking panorama of the Watarase Wetland Reserve, including Lake Yanaka – Japan’s largest heart-shaped reservoir. Inside, you’ll find a vibrant farmers’ market showcasing the region’s freshest produce and local specialties. The on-site restaurant transforms these ingredients into delicious meals and sweet treats, offering a true taste of the area’s culinary heritage. At Roadside Station Kazo-Watarese, visitors can also rent bicycles and canoes, making it a convenient base for exploring the surrounding nature and culture.

Address: 1745-1, Onofukuro, Kazo-shi, Saitama
Access: 10-minute walk from Yagyu Station on the Tobu Nikko Line

●Cycling Adventures
The roadside station serves as an ideal starting point for exploring Kazo and its surroundings by bicycle. With rental bikes readily available, you can choose your own adventure – whether it’s a leisurely ride through local neighborhoods or an ambitious long-distance journey along scenic routes. Along the way, take time to discover hidden local gems, from charming cafes to authentic restaurants serving Saitama’s regional specialties.

PIXTA

Your journey through Saitama combines the thrill of soaring above the Watarase Wetland Reserve with immersive cultural experiences on the ground. Start your day floating among the clouds, taking in breathtaking aerial views of the landscape. Then descend to explore centuries of history – perhaps transforming into a samurai warrior, discovering traditional crafts, or uncovering local treasures unknown to most visitors. Each moment offers a new perspective on this fascinating region, from its natural wonders to its rich cultural heritage.