Chichibu
Get in
JR Skinkansen trains depart Tokyo and Ueno stations 45 minute ride to Kumagaya , where you can transfer for a Chichibu Railway to Chichibu.
See
Hijiri ShrineThe large wado kaichin coins are the stand-out features of this shrine. The wado kaichin is known as Japan's first standardized coin.
Chichibu ShrineAn old shrine with colorful ornate carvings commissioned by Tokugawa Ieyasu. If it reminds you of Toshogu Shrine in Nikko, it's because the same sculptor was hired for both. The shrine hosts the famous Chichibu Night Festival every December (See "Do").
Hitsujiyama ParkA large park known for its shibazakura (phlox flowers) that bloom in the late spring.
Do
Chichibu Temple PilgrimageIn Chichibu and the surrounding area are a circuit of 34 temples, dedicated to Kannon, the goddess of mercy and compassion. These are traditionally visited by walking, but this would take more than a few days. A bicycle is a wonderful way to not only visit some of the temples, but also see some of the surrounding area.
Chichibu Night FestivalHeld every year on December 2nd and 3rd, with the main parade of floats on the 3rd.
NagatoroSail down the Ara River (荒川) on a traditional Japanese wooden boat, taking in the beautiful nature of Nagatoro.
SL PALEO EXPRESSTravel on steam locomotive
Eat
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Oomura
phone: +81 494-22-4147address: Miyakawacho 17-3This is a friendly soba restaurant. They also have very delicious tonkatsu pork cutlets. The mimosa salad is very good and has a lot of fried shrimp on it.