Chichibu, Saitama: A natural escape just 80 minutes from Tokyo. Travel
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Mountainwatch | Tom Hind
Discover the untapped potential of this rising destination
In 2024, Japan broke its own records with almost 37 million international visitors. It’s great news for the country’s deserving tourist industry, but for guests looking to escape the busiest destinations it calls for new, untapped areas to explore.
Saitama is typically regarded as a residential region for those commuting into central Tokyo, but the natural beauty of the west of the prefecture is quickly being recognised as an attractive destination for those looking to conveniently escape the urban hustle of Tokyo and the crowds in popular day-trip towns like Hakone and Nikko. I travelled just over an hour west of Tokyo to Chichibu, in western Saitama, to discover what this up-and-coming area has to offer before it starts pulling in the crowds.
How to get to Chichibu: A scenic and easy journey from Tokyo
Chichibu is the ideal base for exploring the natural side of Saitama prefecture. Easily accessible from Tokyo, the fastest connection is the Seibu Railway Limited Express from Ikebukuro to Seibu-Chichibu Station (80 minutes, AUD 18), passing through the attractive Iruma River valley. Those looking for a more luxurious trip could consider the special “52 seats of Happiness” service, a tourist train with dinner included (AUD 155 to 185).
By car, expect a journey of around two hours from Tokyo.
Chichibu can also be accessed from the west through Kumagaya, making it a suitable stop between Tokyo and the ski regions of Nagano, Gunma and Niigata prefectures if combining it with a snowsports trip.
Staying in Chichibu: Boutique comfort and traditional charm
As a developing destination, Chichibu does not yet have the breadth of accommodation options you’d find in neighbouring Tokyo.
NIPPONIA Chichibu: Historic character with modern touches
The newly opened NIPPONIA Chichibu brings an element of boutique luxury to this traditional town. Just 100m from the main shrine, principal venue of the Chichibu Yomatsuri (see below), NIPPONIA provides privacy and top-class hospitality within a small-hotel setting, each of the eight rooms preserving individual styles befitting the history of their spaces.
Large hinoki wood bath tubs in each room provide a soothing and private space to relax, while the hotel’s restaurant puts emphasis on local flavours with its impressive Japanese breakfast, dinner options and drinks offering.
Large hinoki wood bath tubs in each room provide a soothing and private space to relax, while the hotel’s restaurant puts emphasis on local flavours with its impressive Japanese breakfast, dinner options and drinks offering.
Miyamotoke Ryokan: From farmhouse to luxurious retreat
For a beautiful traditional experience, consider Miyamotoke Ryokan. Around 30 minutes from central Chichibu, this converted farmer’s mansion offers an authentic Japanese stay with warm hospitality. The owner and chef, a former sumo wrestler, brings the same dedication and precision to his seasonal kaiseki cuisine as he once did to the ring. Featuring traditional tatami rooms, private open-air baths, and a peaceful yet convenient location, it’s an excellent base for exploring Chichibu’s culture and nature.
Top things to do in Chichibu: Culture, nature, and adventure
Chichibu night festival: A spectacle of floats, fireworks, and folklore
Chichibu is most known within Japan for its annual Yomatsuri, or Night Festival, taking place each year on December 2nd-3rd. One of Japan’s big three festivals featuring floats, it’s the only one to take place during the snow season, offering an ideal opportunity to combine this important tradition with a snowsports trip in the Japanese Alps. The festival wards off the evil spirits through a procession of intricate floats, a 2.5h firework display, and streets bursting with local food and drink options. This UNESCO recognised event should not be missed!
Seasonal wonders: From ice festivals to cherry blossoms
Those visiting in January and February can also view the impressive Misotsuchi icicles, illuminated daily as part of the Otaki Ice Festival. Access is via car or bus from Chichibu with a journey time of around 45-minutes from central Chichibu. Entry is around AUD$4 per adult.
As the cherry blossom season arrives, take the opportunity to visit Sakura Lake, just 10 minutes from Chichibu. Particularly popular in March and April, but accessible throughout the year, the lake’s surrounding hills transition through the colours as the seasons progress, with monkeys playing in their branches.
The best way to experience this all is from the water, especially for active adults and families. Bencher Canoe provide expert guiding and tuition in high-quality single or catamaran canoes, with a truly unique opportunity for coffee and cake in the centre of the reservoir. AUD 50 for a three-hour session. More details are available on the official website.
In April and May the slopes of Hitsujiyama Park explode into a carpet of 400,000 pink flowers and mosses. Popular with locals and Tokyoites and just 10 minutes from Seibu-Chichibu station, it’s a magnificent sight with Mt Buko towering behind. You’ll also find stalls selling local foods and souvenirs to keep you fed and entertained during your visit.
Walking the Chichibu pilgrimage: A journey through time and temples
Those looking to combine an active holiday with cultural significance should consider the Chichibu Pilgrimage. Accessible almost all year round, the forests along the 100km route remain cooler during the humid months of the Japanese summer and transition to red and orange as autumn approaches.
You’ll pass through 34 Buddhist temples set amidst Chichibu and its surrounding hills and traditional villages, following paths used since the 13th century. The entire route should take 4-7 days to complete on foot but can also be enjoyed in shorter one-day sections or by bike.
Indoor experiences: Silk weaving, whisky bars, and more
The area around Chichibu offers some good activities for wet weather days, too. The Meisenkan museum documents the production of silk, the traditional industry of the area during the Meiji and Showa periods, with the opportunity for hands-on silk weaving and printing experiences.
For those staying overnight in the area, the Highlander Inn is a great place to end your evenings. Anyone familiar with bars in the Scottish Highlands could wake up after a few too many ‘drams’ in this bar and think they’d been transported across the world!
The cast-iron stools, dark wooden tables and exposed beams are uncanny of this bar’s namesake, which the building blends with a traditional Japanese-style courtyard to retain its national roots. The whisky selection is extensive, showcasing specialties including the local Ichiro’s Malt from Chichibu Distillery, and prices are especially reasonable with plenty of options for non-whisky drinkers too.
Why you should consider Chichibu as part of your next Japan trip
Chichibu offers an excellent blend of nature, culture, and adventure just beyond Tokyo’s urban boundaries. Whether hiking on historic pilgrimage trails, paddling across scenic reservoirs, or immersing in local festivals, this under-the-radar destination provides an active and authentic escape. For visitors seeking a unique extension to a Japan ski trip – or an off-the-beaten-path alternative – Chichibu should certainly be considered for an unforgettable experience without the crowds.
*All prices and conversions are correct as of February 2025. Check details on the individual websites of each attraction.
