🌿 A Day Trip to Chichibu — A Nature and Culture Getaway Just a Short Ride from Yokohama —

Did you know that Chichibu, a nature-rich town nestled in the mountains of Saitama Prefecture, is an easy day trip from Yokohama?
Chichibu offers a mix of beautiful rivers, scenic mountains, and traditional Japanese culture. It’s accessible by train or car and makes a great destination for families with small children.

In this article, we’ll introduce a recommended day trip course to enjoy Chichibu to the fullest.


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🚆 Getting There from Yokohama

By Train (Recommended!)

Yokohama → Ikebukuro (via Tokyu/Fukutoshin Line) → Seibu-Chichibu Station (via Seibu Limited Express Laview)

  • Travel time: Around 2 hours and 30 minutes
  • Enjoy comfy seats and scenic views along the way.

By Car
Kan-Etsu Expressway → Hanazono IC → Chichibu

  • Travel time: Around 2 hours (if traffic is light)

⛩️ Morning: Experience Japanese Culture at a Shrine

Chichibu Shrine
Just a 10-minute walk from Seibu-Chichibu Station. This is the most famous shrine in Chichibu.

  • Beautiful, colorful wooden carvings
  • Popular “Children’s Protection” charms
  • Learn traditional manners like washing hands and bowing
    A peaceful time for the whole family.

🛶 Late Morning to Lunch: Explore Nature at Nagatoro

Nagatoro’s Iwadatami Rocks
A natural “rock tatami” formed over thousands of years!
In the Nagatoro area of Chichibu, you’ll find an incredible rocky landscape called Iwadatami. It’s a rare geological formation created over millions of years.

🌿 What is “Iwadatami”?
“Iwadatami” refers to large, flat rocks along the Arakawa River.
They stretch for about 500 meters and look like a giant stone floor!
You can even see exposed rock layers from over 200 million years ago. It’s a designated national natural monument.

In Each Season:

  • Spring: Cherry blossoms
  • Summer: River walks and exploring
  • Autumn: Vibrant foliage
  • Year-round: A great outdoor adventure for kids

🚤 Popular Activity:

Nagatoro River Boat Ride (Line Kudari)
Take a slow ride in a traditional wooden boat near the Iwadatami rocks.
There are calm courses safe for small children. Enjoy views of the rocks and mountains from the boat—it’s a family favorite!


🍱 Lunch: Try Local Delicacies

Near Nagatoro and Chichibu Stations, you’ll find many restaurants serving local specialties:

  • Waraji Katsudon: Giant pork cutlet with sweet and savory sauce. Very filling!
  • Buta Miso Don: Charcoal-grilled pork with miso. Juicy and satisfying!
  • Soba & Udon Noodles: Light and easy for kids to eat. (Note: Check for allergies.)
  • Kakigori (Shaved Ice) & Miso Potatoes:
    • Kakigori made from natural ice is refreshing in summer.
    • Miso Potatoes are a local snack with crispy fried potatoes topped with sweet miso sauce—originally eaten by farmers during breaks.

🍇 Afternoon: Fruit Picking at a Farm

Visit a Tourist Farm (Fruits, Shiitake Mushrooms, and more!)
Chichibu is full of farms where you can enjoy hands-on harvest experiences with your kids. Taste fresh seasonal produce!

  • Blueberries: Late June to August
  • Grapes: August to October

For details, check the Chichibu Tourism and Forestry Association website:
http://www.cknk.jp/


♨️ Before Heading Home: Relax in a Hot Spring

Seibu-Chichibu Ekimae Onsen “Matsuri-no-Yu”
Right next to the station, this hot spring facility is perfect for refreshing after a fun-filled day.

  • Multiple clean baths
  • English-friendly signs
  • Gift shop and restaurant—great for waiting time before the train!

Official Site: Seibu-Chichibu Ekimae Onsen Matsuri-no-Yu


🧭 Summary

Chichibu is a nature- and culture-filled destination that’s friendly to families living in Japan.
Easily accessible by train and full of fun for kids!

Tips & Notes

  • Many places are stroller-friendly, but some areas like shrines or trails may have steps.
  • Boat rides may be canceled in bad weather—check ahead.
  • Weekends can get crowded, so starting early is a good idea!

Enjoy Japanese traditions and nature with your family in Chichibu!


🏕️ Staying Overnight? More Great Spots:

Nagatoro Camping Village
Cabins, playgrounds, and a free public bath (with outdoor bath and shampoo provided).
A small stream runs through the grounds—great for kids to explore.
Well-equipped and comfortable even for families with babies.

Mitsumine Shrine
This shrine honors gods from ancient Japanese mythology.
Many families visit to pray for health and safety.

  • Panoramic views from the mountain
  • Beautiful, colorful shrine buildings
  • Statues of wolves (considered protective animals in Japan)
    Note: Mountain paths can be steep. Wear comfy shoes. Baby carriers are helpful instead of strollers.

Hodosan Small Animal Park
Located at the 497-meter summit of Mt. Hodosan, this park opened in 1960 as a monkey park.
Meet Japanese macaques, deer, and more in a natural setting.
Popular with kids—breathe in the mountain air and enjoy quality time with animals!

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Author of this article

In my company, "Fukuwarai," we sell traditional countryside ingredients like miso and soy sauce, primarily targeting Japanese customers. However, we also introduce these delicious Japanese delicacies to foreigners.

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