A Perfect Day Trip from Tokyo: Explore Nature, History & Culture in Gyoda

Just about an hour from Tokyo by train, Gyoda in Saitama is a charming city filled with water, greenery, and deep Japanese history. It’s perfect for a quick day trip: dreamy hanachōzu displays, massive rice-paddy art, samurai armor dressing at the famous Oshi Castle, and plenty of photo-worthy stops. The city is also known as Japan’s top producer of tabi socks, with historic “tabi warehouses” still lining the streets. If you want to experience a blend of nature, culture, and classic Japan, Gyoda is well worth the visit.

Hanachōzu: Flower-Filled Water Basins Around the City
Rice Paddy Art: Fields Turned into a Giant Canvas
Step Into Samurai History at Oshi Castle
Tabi Culture: A Craft Tradition Recognized as a Japan Heritage Site

Hanachōzu: Flower-Filled Water Basins Around the City

Hanachōzu—temizu basins decorated with colorful flowers—can be found at shrines and temples throughout Gyoda. They’re refreshed in tune with the seasons, so check the official site for the latest spots. The floating flowers create a magical, highly Instagrammable scene. At Oshi Castle, the basins are also lit up at night for a completely different atmosphere.

Rice Paddy Art: Fields Turned into a Giant Canvas

Gyoda’s famous rice paddy art transforms huge fields into massive artworks using four varieties of rice. Planting happens in mid-June, and the best viewing season runs from mid-July to mid-October—especially late July through late August when the colors are at their peak. Get the full view from the Gyoda Tower inside the Ancient Lotus Hall(Kodaihasu-kaikan). Nearby, you can also see ancient lotus flowers grown from 1,400-year-old seeds, which bloom from mid-July to early August—a perfect time to enjoy both lotus blossoms and rice paddy art together.

Step Into Samurai History at Oshi Castle

Oshi Castle, built in the Sengoku era, is one of Gyoda’s signature historical sites. Today, the grounds include a museum where you can explore the city’s rich past. You can also book a samurai armor dressing experience right in front of the castle. Putting on the full armor makes you feel like a real warlord from the era. Reservations are online, and the experience runs outside the July–September summer period. Step into the romance and drama of Japan’s Sengoku era at this storied castle.

Tabi Culture: A Craft Tradition Recognized as a Japan Heritage Site

Gyoda is Japan’s leading producer of tabi—traditional split-toe socks once essential for kimono wear. Many old factories and warehouses have been preserved as “tabi gura,” giving the town a nostalgic, artisanal feel. At the Tabi & Lifestyle Museum, you can learn about the history and craftsmanship behind tabi, join tours, and watch live demonstrations. Tabi also make a unique, culturally rich souvenir from your trip.