Home of Kumagaya City, Saitama Prefecture is located just north of Tokyo. The majority of its area is considered a suburb of Tokyo, whilst the western area is rural and mountainous – the perfect escape from the urban. Saitama has always had a close relationship with Tokyo, or Edo, as its principal food supplier in the 17th century, and you’ll find a wealth of Edo heritage in the area.

There’s lovely 19th century architecture and plenty of traditional performing arts here. Kumagaya itself is nestled between two rivers – from beside the Arakawa you can see Mt Asama, and occasional glimpses of Mt Fuji. There is a great rugby history here too – Kumagaya hosts the annual national high school rugby tournament.