The Location of Saitama Prefecture

Saitama Prefecture is located in the central part of Japan, situated within the Kanto Plain, making it an inland prefecture. About one-third of its land area is mountainous, with the remaining area consisting of flatlands. The prefecture is blessed with abundant water resources, including the Arakawa and Tone rivers, as well as clear streams such as Nagatoro.
The climate in Saitama is characterized by hot, humid summers, with Kumagaya City being particularly famous for experiencing temperatures over 40°C on some days. In contrast, winters are dry and cold, with seasonal winds common in the area. The prefecture experiences relatively few wind-related disasters and enjoys many clear days.
Saitama is known for its agricultural production, particularly vegetables grown for the Greater Tokyo Area, with Fukaya onions being a notable specialty. Due to its proximity to Tokyo and excellent transportation links, Saitama also serves as a residential area or "bedtown" for the capital.

Nagatoro, known for its stunning gorges and nature.

Like other prefectures, Saitama is facing challenges related to a declining birthrate and an aging population, leading to expected labor shortages. The number of foreign workers in Saitama is approximately 80,000, with the majority coming from Vietnam, China, and the Philippines. About 30% of these workers are employed in manufacturing, while others work in service industries, wholesale and retail, and construction.
In terms of residency status, nearly 40% are in Japan based on familial or personal ties, making this the largest group. This is followed by those engaged in activities outside their designated visa status, who account for just over 20%, and technical interns and those in specialized or technical fields, each accounting for just under 20%. These foreign workers play an important role in supporting Saitama's labor market across various sectors.