Saitama Super Arena

Spend winter in Japan the right way at the Sweet Potato Expo at Keyaki Hiroba plaza located just outside Saitama Super Arena. From big-time yakiimo makers to independent food trucks, discover 31 of the best sweet potato vendors and vote for your favourite in the National Yakiimo Grand Prix. Eat sweet potatoes the traditional way – straight out of the stone oven – or try them in soup, chips, pies and croquettes. The event this year features a free area where visitors can casually enjoy sweet potato desserts and dishes, while the main venue, showcasing sweet potatoes from across Japan, requires an entry fee.

What better way to warm up in winter than by savouring a hot bowl of noodles? Popular ramen restaurants from across Japan are gathering at Saitama Super Arena’s Keyaki Hiroba outdoor square for a massive ramen festival. The event is split into two parts, with each half showcasing a different selection of ramen. Don’t miss regional delights such as the ginger soy-sauce ramen of Menya Aishin from Niigata, or a ramen from Mie prefecture’s Nodogurotsukemen Smile that uses locally sourced Matsusaka pork slices, Kuwana mochi wheat noodles and Ise lobster for its broth. Closed on March 4th and 5th. Check the event website for more details. (Japanese only)