Omiya, a lively city in Saitama Prefecture, Japan, mixes urban excitement with cultural richness. Famous for its historical sites, innovative industries, and vibrant arts scene, Omiya ensures an unforgettable experience—a city where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly.
Grab your bike, and let’s roll into the heart of this lively city!
Distance from Central Tokyo to Omiya by bike: ~32 km / ~20 miles (~2h10)
Omiya Station（大宮駅）
Omiya Station is like the go-to spot, hooking up the city with the wider Kanto region and beyond. Being an important hub for the East Japan Railway Company (JR East), it’s the main stop for millions of people going places every year. But it’s not just about trains—Omiya Station also has a mix of shops, tasty eats, and a lively vibe.
JR Omiya Station – Saitama – Japan Travel
Omiya Park（大宮公園）
Omiya Park is a laid-back spot away from the city hustle. It’s pretty massive, covering about 67 hectares, with lovely greenery, peaceful ponds, and winding pathways. You can take a relaxed stroll, have a picnic under the tall trees, or simply enjoy the calm vibes of nature. Plus, there’s more to do—sports fields, playgrounds, and even a zoo for some family fun. Whether you’re after a quiet moment, a family day out, or just some time in nature, Omiya Park guarantees a memorable experience for everyone who steps through its gates.
Omiya Park | See & Do | Saitama City near Tokyo
Omiya Park Zoo（小動物園）
Omiya Park Zoo is like a little getaway into the animal world. You can meet all sorts of creatures, from fun-loving capybaras to awesome monkeys.
Omiya Park small Zoo | Saitama Park and Greenery association
Omiya Bonsai Village and Bonsai Art Museum（大宮盆栽村 (盆栽園集合地域)）
Omiya Bonsai Village is an interesting spot for people who love bonsai and nature. It’s been around since 1925, showing off these tiny masterpieces that people have been carefully growing for ages. It’s like a mix of nature and human art.
Inside the village, there’s the Omiya Bonsai Art Museum, where you can check out over 120 bonsai trees that have been doing their thing for centuries. It’s not just about looking at them – you also get the lowdown on how bonsai works, from picking the right plants to doing those delicate pruning moves. It’s a fun way to dive into the world of bonsai.
Omiya Railway Museum（鉄道博物館）
The Omiya Railway Museum is a great tribute to Japan’s rich railway history. It opened in 2007 and displays a wide collection of over 30 railway cars, simulators, and models, showcasing the evolution of Japanese railways from their early days to the present. Explore the museum through its five distinct stations: Rolling Stock, Science, Jobs, Future, and History, each offering a unique perspective on the world of railways with interactive exhibits, multimedia presentations, and hands-on learning experiences.
Musashi Ichinomiya Hikawa Shrine（氷川神社（武蔵一宮））
The Musashi Ichinomiya Hikawa-jinja Shrine is like a living storybook with over 2,000 years of history, making it one of the oldest and most important shrines in the Kanto region. You can feel the shrine’s history as you stroll around its natural paths and gravel spots, which give off an authentic vibe. Whether you’re here for some spiritual vibes or just to appreciate the craft, Musashi Ichinomiya Hikawa-jinja Shrine is a nice dive into Japanese history and culture.
Musashi Ichinomiya Hikawa Shrine – Japan Travel Planner
Exploring Omiya City: A Scenic Bicycle Journey from Tokyo to Tradition and Modernity
Omiya City in Saitama Prefecture, a hidden gem in close proximity to Tokyo, is a unique blend of traditional charm and modern allure that’s surprisingly accessible by bicycle from Tokyo. This feature adds to its appeal, offering a refreshing and eco-friendly travel option for visitors. The heart of Omiya is home to the enchanting Omiya Bonsai Village, a serene retreat dedicated to the ancient art of bonsai, where meticulously nurtured miniature trees showcase the intricacy of this traditional practice. For train enthusiasts, the Railway Museum is a must-visit, displaying a comprehensive collection of trains that span Japan’s rich railway history. Omiya Park, with its vibrant seasonal blooms, offers a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls or picnics, especially under the cherry blossoms. The historic Hikawa Shrine, with over 2000 years of history, provides a tranquil space for spiritual reflection amidst the city’s bustling environment. Each of these attractions, easily reachable by a scenic bike ride from Tokyo, collectively weaves a tapestry of diverse experiences, making Omiya City an unmissable and accessible destination in the heart of Saitama.
