On Sunday, August 8, the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, which created many exciting stories, came to a close. Exciting matches were held in Saitama’s venues for basketball, football, shooting, and golf. During the Games, media from around the world reported on tourist attractions in Saitama. This release will introduce some of Saitama’s attractions which were featured in foreign media.
Omiya Bonsai Featured in the Süddeutsche Zeitung
Permanent Exhibition Commemorating the Olympics in the Omiya Bonsai Art Museum
Saitama City, where Saitama’s Olympic basketball and football venues were located, is also home to the Omiya Bonsai Village, famous as a mecca for bonsai. The Omiya Bonsai Village has the Omiya Bonsai Art Museum (https://www.bonsai-art-museum.jp/en/), the world’s first public bonsai art museum, and it attracts many foreign visitors. The Süddeutsche Zeitung ran an article about the Omiya Bonsai Village and the appeal of bonsai (https://www.sueddeutsche.de/stil/japan-bonsai-baeume-1.5359599?reduced=true).
To commemorate the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, a zelkova bonsai belonging to former Prime Minister Shigeru Yoshida, which was also displayed during the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, is being displayed.[Access] https://www.bonsai-art-museum.jp/en/access/
Reported on by AFP: Certified Guinness World Record! The Perfect Time to See Rice Paddy Art in Gyoda
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GY26f8hqbyI
Now is the perfect time to see the rice paddy art in Gyoda. Rice paddy art uses the paddy as a canvas, planting rice seedlings of different colors to draw giant pictures. The rice paddy art in Gyoda, Saitama has been certified for its size by Guinness World Records, and also has wonderful designs, delighting many people. There is an observation deck from which you can view the art in its entirety.
The art style used is different every year, but this year was inspired by ukiyo-e and kabuki, which had a major influence on famous painters as part of the Japonisme movement. The rice paddy art can be seen until mid-October.
Other popular attractions in Gyoda are Oshi Castle and ancient lotus flowers.[Access] https://en.chocotabi-saitama.jp/spot/20865?back=1
City Cast Volunteers Promoting the Attractions of Saitama During the Olympics and Paralympics
The Nippon Foundation Volunteer Support Center cooperated with local governments operating “City Casts” to create online experiences with locals promoting the appeal of prefectures and cities hosting event venues.
Attractions other than the ones mentioned in this release are introduced as well, so try out the Saitama online experience for yourself.
This project was made in collaboration with Airbnb.
■Saitama’s festival, shrine as power spot
Introducing popular tourist attractions in Saitama.
https://www.airbnb.jp/experiences/2738010
■Saitama, Japan’s Hidden Spots near Tokyo
Hidden Spots around the Saitama Super Arena and Saitama Stadium which are not found in guidebooks.
https://www.airbnb.jp/experiences/2726691
