Wellness in Saitama: Takedera Blowing Zen Meditation & Hot Spring
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Saitama Prefecture, adjacent to Tokyo, offers a diverse options of experiences that cater to wellness and mindfulness enthusiasts and it's only an hour away from Tokyo.
This unique offering takes you to Takedera in Hanno City, a distinctive temple where the harmonious blend of Shintoism and Buddhism converges with a vast bamboo forest. While immersing yourself in the tranquility of this spiritual sanctuary, meet your instructor, Mr. Aoyama, for a truly unique experience – learning the art of "suizen," or blowing Zen meditation. This practice is so rare that even many Japanese locals have never encountered it.
Later, your wellness journey continues to the Kirari Spa Villa by Miyazawa Lake. As one of Saitama's most popular spas, this villa boasts an extensive variety of pools. Spend your afternoon at the spa villa before returning to the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.
NOTE: Please note that tattoos are strictly prohibited at this particular spa facility.
Available options
Including Lunch (vegetarian)
Vegetarian lunch at Takedera: savor seasonal vegetables and herbs served with uniquely designed tableware made of bamboo.
Wellness in Saitama: Takedera Blowing Zen Meditation & Hot Spring
What's included
English-speaking guide (depart after drop-off at Kirari Spa Villa)
Takedera tour and introduction
Blowing zen "suizen" experiences
Round-trip transfer to/from Takedera
One-way transfer from Kirari Spa Villa to Hanno Station
Admission to Kirari Spa Villa
What's not included
(Option) Lunch (vegetarian) at Takedera
Available languages
Guide guide
JA
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
5.0
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Meet up with your guide and the driver or the Priest from Takedera "Bamboo Temple" outside of the South Exit of Hanno Station at 10:00 AM.
Important notes
Please present this ticket to your guide upon meetup at Hanno Station. The guide will handle the admission to Takedera, blow zen experiences, and admission to Kirari Spa Villa. If you have selected and paid for the optional lunch at checkout, lunch will be included as well.
About Saitama Prefecture
Saitama Prefecture, located just north of Tokyo, offers a mix of urban convenience and natural beauty. Known for its parks, museums, and as a gateway to the mountains, it's a perfect blend of modern living and traditional charm.
Top Attractions
Kawagoe
Known as 'Little Edo,' Kawagoe features well-preserved Edo-period buildings, traditional sweets, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Historical
Half day to full day
Budget to Moderate
Chichibu
A mountainous region known for its hiking trails, hot springs, and beautiful landscapes.
Nature
Full day to overnight
Budget to Moderate
Saitama Super Arena
A multi-purpose arena hosting concerts, sports events, and exhibitions.
Entertainment
2-4 hours
Variable
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kawagoe Mochi
A traditional sweet made from rice flour, often filled with red bean paste or other sweet fillings.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Saitama Gyu (Beef)
High-quality beef from Saitama, often grilled or served in hot pots.
Dinner
Contains meat
Soba Noodles
Buckwheat noodles served hot or cold, often with a dipping sauce or in a broth.
Lunch
Vegetarian (check for dipping sauce ingredients)
Popular Activities
Hiking in Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park
Canyoning in Mitake Gorge
Onsen (hot spring) visits
Strolling through Kawagoe's historical streets
Visiting temples and shrines in Nikko and Kamakura
Exploring traditional candy shops in Kawagoe
Boating on Lake Chuzenji in Nikko
Skiing and snowboarding in the mountains of Chichibu
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
Spring offers cherry blossoms and pleasant weather, while autumn provides cool temperatures and beautiful fall colors. These are the most popular times to visit.
10-25°C (50-77°F)
50-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
GMT+9
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Saitama is generally safe with low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas and on public transportation.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis and official tour operators.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services, especially in tourist areas.
Getting there
By air
- Narita International Airport • 80 km (50 miles)
- Haneda Airport • 30 km (19 miles)
By train
Tokyo Station, Ueno Station
By bus
Tokyo Station Bus Terminal, Buster Terminal Tokyo
Getting around
Public transport
Efficient and punctual train network covering the entire prefecture and connecting to Tokyo.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Omiya
Kawagoe
Chichibu
Day trips
Nikko
100 km (62 miles) • Full day
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful shrines, temples, and natural landscapes.
Kamakura
60 km (37 miles) • Full day
A coastal town known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha.
Kumagaya
50 km (31 miles) • Half day
A city known for its historical sites and the Kumagaya Onsen hot spring.
Festivals
Kawagoe Festival • Early October
Saitama Gold Theater Festival • Annual (dates vary)
Chichibu Night Festival • Early December
Pro tips
- Use an IC card like Suica or Pasmo for easy and discounted public transportation.
- Visit Kawagoe during festivals for a more authentic and vibrant experience.
- Explore the rural areas of Saitama for stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Try local specialties like Kawagoe Mochi and Saitama Gyu for a taste of the region's cuisine.
- Book accommodations and popular attractions in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
