Things To Do
in Honjō
Honjō is a small city in Saitama Prefecture just north of Tokyo, known for its calm residential neighborhoods, riverside walks, and agricultural heritage. The town blends traditional streets with modern conveniences, making it easy to explore on foot or by short train ride. Life here moves at a relaxed pace, inviting leisurely meals, local markets, and scenic day trips into the surrounding countryside.
Visitors are welcomed by friendly locals, seasonal festivals, and comforting, wholesome regional flavors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Honjō City Museum, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of the region. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of the historic center, admiring the well-preserved traditional architecture. Don’t forget to stop by a local café to enjoy a refreshing matcha and a delightful pastry.
In the afternoon, visit the renowned Honjō Castle ruins, where you can explore the scenic park and enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Next, wander over to the nearby Shinto shrine, where you can participate in traditional rituals and appreciate the serene surroundings. Take some time to capture beautiful photographs of the cherry blossoms if you're visiting in the spring.
As the sun sets, head to a local izakaya to enjoy a selection of authentic Japanese dishes paired with regional sake. Engage with friendly locals and learn about traditional customs while savoring your meal. After dinner, take a relaxing walk along the riverbank, soaking in the tranquil evening ambiance under the stars.
Begin your day with a refreshing hike at the nearby Akagi Mountains, where the fresh air and stunning views will invigorate your spirit. Spend the morning exploring the lush trails, surrounded by vibrant flora and fauna, before enjoying a packed breakfast amidst nature. The sound of the birds and rustling leaves creates a peaceful atmosphere perfect for reflection.
After your hike, visit the beautiful Lake Kameyama, where you can rent a kayak or paddleboat to explore the serene waters. Enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains as you glide along, soaking up the tranquility of the landscape. Pack a picnic lunch to savor by the lakeside, surrounded by nature's beauty.
Return to Honjō in the evening and unwind at a local onsen, where you can soak in the natural hot springs that have been cherished for centuries. The warm water will rejuvenate your muscles after a day of outdoor activities. Enjoy a light dinner at the onsen restaurant, featuring seasonal ingredients and traditional Japanese flavors.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel room (per night) | $60-120 |
| 🛍️Groceries (weekly) | $50-120 |
| 🎟️Museum/attraction ticket | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm pace and friendly locals
- Good base for Tokyo-day trips and nature escapes
- Affordable compared with major urban centers
- Wholesome, seasonal cuisine and markets
- Fewer marquee tourist attractions than larger cities
- Limited nightlife and English-language resources in some areas
- Public transit connections are reliable but can be slower than central Tokyo
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "お願いします" - Please
- "いくらですか" - How much is this?
- "トイレはどこですか" - Where is the restroom?
- "英語を話せますか" - Do you speak English?
- "おすすめは何ですか" - What do you recommend?
- "水" - Water
- "クレジットカードは使えますか" - Is a credit card accepted?
- "食べられますか" - Can I eat here?
Places to Visit in Honjō
Visit one of these nice places.
A long, calm riverside walk with golden-hour reflections, ideal for landscape and street photography.
Shinto shrine grounds with torii gates set among trees, offering tranquil compositions and seasonal lighting.
Lanes lined with traditional storefronts and latticework, perfect for capturing old-town charm.
A small hill with a viewpoint offering cityscapes at dusk and night shots of illuminated streets.
Food in Honjō
Honjō Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy pork cutlet over rice with onion and egg, a staple in casual eateries.
Must-Try!
Beef and potato stew with soy-sauce sweetness, common in homes and family-run restaurants.
Rice bowl topped with light, crisp tempura vegetables or seafood.
Buckwheat noodles with seasonal toppings such as greens, mushrooms, or tempura.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market offering fresh vegetables, fish, tofu, and prepared foods—great for lunch on the go.
Stalls near the train station serving yakitori, taiyaki, and grilled fish skewers.
Occasional weekend stalls with seasonal fruit, pickles, and homemade snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Honorific bowing is polite; use formal language when speaking to strangers or elders. Address people by their family name with appropriate suffix.
Shoes are typically removed before entering homes and certain traditional spaces; watch for entry mats and signposted rules.
Speak softly on trains and buses; avoid loud phone conversations and eating in more formal carriages.
Keep sidewalks clean; use designated trash bins for disposal as waste sorting is common.
Safety
Tipping in Honjō
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected as standard. A small gratuity is usually unnecessary and can be politely declined.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in markets and smaller shops. Credit cards are common in larger restaurants and urban areas. Mobile payments (e.g., IC cards, Apple Pay) are increasingly convenient, and ATMs are widely available for cash when needed.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with occasional heavy afternoon showers. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and seek shade in parks or indoors during peak heat.
Crisp days with colorful foliage. Great for long walks and sunset photography along the river.
Cool to cold, often dry with occasional frost. Layered clothing and a warm beverage make for comfortable exploring.
Mild temperatures and cherry blossoms in bloom. Ideal for courtyard photos, markets, and outdoor cafes.
Honjō at Night
Hiking in Honjō
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A flat, scenic riverside walk suitable for easy day hikes and birdwatching.
A moderate circuit through pine and cedar forests with scenic overlooks of farmland and towns.
Gentle paths through rice fields and rural villages, best in spring and autumn.
Airports
How to reach Honjō by plane.
Tokyo’s domestic and international hub, about 70-90 minutes away by rail and road depending on connections.
Chiba-based international gateway, typically 90-120 minutes away by train or car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families taking advantage of solid schools and a safe, community-focused environment.
Commuters travel to Tokyo for work; local towns provide residential charm with easy access to the capital.
A significant portion of residents are retirees who value healthcare facilities, parks, and quiet neighborhoods.
Nearby universities and research centers attract students and visiting scholars.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A very popular sport in schools and local leagues; fans enjoy community games.
Local clubs and school teams play regularly; easy to catch a casual match in regional stadiums.
Martial arts practices, such as judo or kendo, are common in community centers and dojos.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Honjō.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes rely on dashi stock or fish-based flavors. Look for soy-based miso soups, tofu dishes, tempura vegetables, and veggie donburi, and always ask about dashi or broths to suit a vegetarian diet.