Higashimatsuyama City, located in Saitama Prefecture, has developed as a residential area in the greater Tokyo area. Since the opening of the Higashimatsuyama Interchange, the city has also focused on industry. It is also the first city within Saitama Prefecture to be incorporated. Local specialties include yakitori and pears. Tourist attractions include the Saitama Children's Zoo and Higashimatsuyama Peony Garden. In early spring, over 9,100 hydrangeas and peonies bloom at Higashimatsuyama Peony Garden. With 350 varieties, simply looking at them is soothing. The annual Higashimatsuyama Fireworks Festival is planned by the citizens of Higashimatsuyama. This citizen-participation fireworks festival is overwhelming, with both the sound and the sheer number of fireworks launched.