Things To Do
in Chichibu
Chichibu is a mountainous city in Saitama Prefecture, northwest of Tokyo, known for its pristine river valleys and sacred mountains. It's a year-round gateway to nature, with mossy parks in spring, vibrant foliage in autumn, and snowy trails in winter. The city blends centuries-old shrines and traditional festivals with modern cafes and scenic viewpoints along the Arakawa River.
Accessible via Seibu Railway and express buses, Chichibu offers a compact, walkable town center with easy access to outdoor adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by visiting the Chichibu Shrine, an iconic site that showcases traditional Japanese architecture and serene surroundings. After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere, stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, where you can admire the old merchant houses and quaint shops. Don't forget to stop by a local café for a traditional Japanese breakfast featuring fresh rice and miso soup.
In the afternoon, explore the Chichibu Railway Museum, where you can learn about the history of rail transport in the region. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverbanks, taking in the beautiful natural scenery and perhaps stopping for a picnic lunch. As the day progresses, visit the nearby Seibu Chichibu Peony Garden, where you'll be treated to stunning floral displays.
As the sun sets, head to a local izakaya for dinner to savor Chichibu's renowned local cuisine, including grilled fish and seasonal vegetables. Engage with the friendly locals and learn about their culture over a few glasses of sake. Conclude your day with a peaceful stroll under the starry sky, soaking in the tranquil ambiance of this charming town.
Start your morning with a hike up to the Mitsumine Shrine, located at the top of a mountain, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is surrounded by lush forests, and the serene atmosphere is perfect for a reflective start to your day. Upon reaching the shrine, take time to appreciate the intricate architecture and spiritual significance of this sacred site.
After descending, treat yourself to a delicious lunch at a local soba noodle shop, where you can enjoy handmade noodles and various dipping sauces. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby Nagatoro River, where you can rent a kayak or take a leisurely boat ride to admire the stunning rock formations. The tranquil waters and scenic beauty make for a perfect outdoor adventure.
In the evening, relax at a local onsen (hot spring), where you can unwind and soak in the natural mineral waters after a day of exploration. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the sound of nature, making it a perfect end to your day. For dinner, try a local specialty, such as Chichibu's famous pork, served in a cozy atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $3-5 |
| 🍜Mid-range lunch or dinner | $15-25 |
| 🏨One-night hotel | $70-130 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs and groceries | $20-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and easy access from Tokyo
- Rich cultural heritage including Chichibu Shrine and festivals
- Seasonal flower displays and scenic rivers
- Wide range of outdoor activities in a compact area
- Smaller nightlife and less English-speaking services in rural areas
- Seasonal sites may require planning around opening times
- Winter travel can require snow gear and careful driving
- Limited high-speed connectivity in remote parts
- "こんにちは" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "すみません" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "お願いします" - Please
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "いくらですか" - How much is this?
- "トイレはどこですか" - Where is the toilet?
- "英語を話せますか" - Do you speak English?
- "写真を撮ってもいいですか" - May I take photographs?
Places to Visit in Chichibu
Visit one of these nice places.
The vermilion torii gates and lanterns create a dramatic scene as the sun sets over the shrine.
Vibrant moss phlox carpets during late spring, photographable from hill slopes with city views.
Unique block-like rock formations and river flow provide compelling landscape compositions.
Mountain ridges and quarry vistas frame panoramic countryside scenery.
Food in Chichibu
Chichibu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled rice cakes brushed with a sweet-savoury miso glaze; a rustic staple found at markets and stalls around Chichibu.
Must-Try!
Buckwheat noodles served hot in winter or cold in summer, often accompanied by light toppings and local herbs.
Seasonal freshwater fish sourced from nearby streams, commonly offered at riverside restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls along the Arakawa river offering dango, yakitori, taiyaki, and fresh produce.
Local vegetables, pickles, and prepared foods ideal for a quick lunch or picnic.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Speak softly in public, especially on trains and in temples; remove shoes where required; bow as a polite greeting.
Shower before entering, no swimsuits, and keep quiet to respect other bathers.
Safety
Tipping in Chichibu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; polite service is expected; round up or leave small change if asked.
Cash is widely accepted; credit cards are increasingly supported in towns and tourist sites; Suica/PASMO IC cards work on trains and some shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days, blossoms in town and Hitsujiyama Park; best time for walking and riverside photography.
Hot and humid; pack hydration; forest trails stay cooler; enjoy river activities near Nagatoro.
Colorful foliage in forests and on hills; many viewpoints offer stunning color displays.
Snow in higher elevations; some trails require winter gear; peaceful with fewer crowds.
Chichibu at Night
Hiking in Chichibu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular mountain hike with quarry views and forest scenery; moderate difficulty.
Forest paths leading to a sacred shrine; year-round appeal.
Riverside trails in the Nagatoro area along the Arakawa River.
Airports
How to reach Chichibu by plane.
Major international and domestic hub; easy access to Chichibu via train and highway.
Another major international gateway; longer transfer to Chichibu but frequent express trains and buses.
Regional airport in Nagano Prefecture; convenient for accessing northern Chichibu and Mitsumine area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families with children making weekend trips; a popular demographic for outdoor activities.
Active older population in town; many retirees explore nature trails.
Domestic travelers from Tokyo and other regions seeking nature and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime and local school and community leagues.
Local clubs and casual games in parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chichibu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes use dashi stock, so ask for no dashi or miso without fish; seek tofu, vegetables, and soba options; in larger towns vegetarian options are more common.