Enjoy Autumn Leaves in Chichibu: A 2-Day Trip

Purpose of the Trip Experience the autumn foliage in Chichibu! Visit Mitsumine Shrine! Enjoy a riverboat ride in Nagatoro! Day 1 Take a train to Seibu-Chichibu Station. From there, take a bus to Mitsumine Shrine, which takes about 90 minutes. Mitsumine Shrine is a sacred place surrounded by rich nature. The shrine also has accommodation facilities if you wish to stay overnight. For lunch, enjoy Chichibu's specialties at Oshima-ya: waraji katsu (pork cutlet) and soba noodles with walnut sauce. Afterward, take a bus back to the station and visit Chichibu Shrine and Chichibu Imamiya Shrine. These shrines are surrounded by autumn foliage, making them a must-visit in the fall. Head to Chichibu Ogano Onsen Ryokan Ryosangaku, where you have a reservation. The ryokan offers a free shuttle bus from the station. Note that the area around the ryokan has no convenience stores or shops, so it's recommended to buy necessities near the station. The ryokan features hot spring facilities. Day 2 Take the shuttle back to the station and head to Nagatoro Station by train. Enjoy a thrilling riverboat ride down the Arakawa River, experiencing the dynamic currents and the natural beauty of Nagatoro. The boatman skillfully navigates the boat manually. After the boat ride, walk to Hodosan Shrine, located in a lush natural setting, about a 20-minute walk away. Near the second torii gate, you can walk along the Okumiya Sando path and take the ropeway from Hodosan Base Station to the summit. If you choose not to take the ropeway, it’s about a 50-minute hike to the top. Next, walk to Tsuki no Ishi Momiji Park. As the name suggests, the autumn leaves here are stunning, making it a highly recommended spot during the fall season. On your way back, stop by the Chichibu Souvenir Market, directly connected to Seibu-Chichibu Station, to pick up some souvenirs before heading home. Transportation You can explore the area using trains and buses, so a car is not necessary. However, buses can get quite crowded, so allow extra time in your schedule. Tips Most attractions in the Chichibu area are outdoors, so bad weather can be challenging. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Accommodation Chichibu Ogano Onsen Ryokan Ryosangaku Offers shuttle service. About a 10-minute drive from Chichibu Station. Features hot spring facilities. Instagram-Worthy Spots Mitsumine Shrine: The shrine’s majestic architecture and autumn foliage. Tsuki no Ishi Momiji Park: Beautiful autumn leaves.