Wako, Residential city in Saitama Prefecture, Japan
Wako is a residential municipality in Saitama Prefecture, positioned on the Musashino Terrace near the border with Tokyo. The Shirako River runs along one edge and marks the boundary with the neighboring Itabashi Ward.
Two villages named Shirako and Niikura merged in 1943 to form the town of Yamato within Niiza District. The settlement gained city status in 1970 and took its current name at that time.
Archaeological discoveries across Wako reveal extensive evidence of ancient settlements through Jomon period pottery and implements found at multiple sites.
Eight public elementary schools, three middle schools, and two prefectural high schools serve the local population throughout the municipality. The city is connected to Tokyo and neighboring areas by regional trains and roads.
The Myoten-ji temple preserves a statue of Nichiren and is known for Koyasu no Shimizu, a spring linked to prayers for safe childbirth. Believers receive blessed willow twigs there as part of this tradition.
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