This is a green, picturesque corner of Saitama Prefecture that perfectly combines proximity to the metropolis with untouched Japanese nature. On weekends, you can ride the SL Paleo Express - a steam locomotive.

The most popular times to visit are October–November for momiji, early December for Chichibu Yomatsuri, and January–February for Ashigakubo icicles.

Trip Plan

Ikebukuro - Seibu-Chichibu

You can take the beautiful yellow express train Laview to Seibu-Chichibu Station. Transfer to the local line at Ohanabatake Station and ride to Nagataro Station. Along the way, you’ll notice posters from the anime Anohana, since the story takes place here. There’s also a map of the locations at the tourist office to the right of the exit.

Nagataro Station

The first stop, Hodosan Jinja, a temple over 1900 years old, earned one star in Michelin Green Guide Japan for its sculptures.

There’s a cable car station nearby, and in just 5 minutes, you’ll be at the summit. You can sit on the terrace with a panoramic view of the mountains and Tittibu, visit the inner shrine, then after descending, stroll along Iwadatami Dori to pick up souvenirs or grab a bite, such as local pickles or grilled ayu (sweetfish). Next, head to Nagatoro Iwadatami — take a boat ride down the Ara River on a traditional wooden boat or simply walk along the stone slabs. In autumn, you can walk to Lunar Stone Maple Park to enjoy the fall foliage.

The way back

On the way back, return to Nagataro Station or, after the park, go to the nearest Kami-Nagatoro, and from there head to Ohanabatake. You can eat at the Seibu-Chichibu Ekimae Onsen Matsurinoyu stalls or pick up souvenirs before heading back to Tokyo.