Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park in Saitama, Japan, with our comprehensive travel guide. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, we've got you covered.


Note: As an AI language model, I do not have any personal travel experience in this area. This content is researched and written solely based on available resources.

Introduction to Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park

Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park is located in Saitama, Japan. Established in 1950, it spans across three prefectures- Saitama, Tokyo, and Yamanashi. Covering an area of 1255.78 km², the park is known for its stunning mountainous landscapes, dense forests, and numerous hiking trails. It is also home to several culturally significant shrines, temples, and museums.

List of Places to Visit in Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mitsumine Shrine: Located in Chichibu, Saitama, the shrine dates back over 2000 years and is dedicated to the deity of Mitsumine. It is believed to bring good fortune and health to visitors.
  • Chichibu Muse Park: A park and museum located in Chichibu, the area features numerous museums, an art gallery, a botanical garden, and a planetarium.
  • Ikaho Green Bokujo: A peaceful farm and nature park located in the mountains of Minano, Saitama. The farm provides a unique experience for visitors, including feeding animals, horseback riding, and strawberry picking.

Natural Attractions of Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mt. Kumotori: The tallest mountain in Tokyo, with an elevation of 2,017 m. The mountaintop offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding areas and mountain ranges.
  • Nagatoro River: A scenic river located in Nagatoro town, Saitama, the river offers a relaxing boat ride along with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Mitsuishi Rocks: Located in Chichibu, Saitama, the rocks are a famous landmark of the area with a height of 250 meters. The rust-colored rocks resemble the shape of three giant bears standing and looking out over the landscape.
  • Momiji-dani Suspension Bridge: A 320 m-long pedestrian suspension bridge located in Chichibu, Saitama. The bridge offers incredible views of the autumn foliage and rugged mountain landscape below.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park

  • Oku-Chichibu Hiking Trail: A 37 km-long trail located in the Oku-Chichibu area, the trail offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys of the area along with various species of flora and fauna. It is a great choice for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and hikers of all skill levels.
  • Mount Mitake Hiking Trail: Located in Sawai, Tokyo, the trail leads to the picturesque summit of Mt. Mitake. The trail takes you through dense forests, and you can witness the beauty of the Japanese mountains along the way.
  • Miharashi Hiking Trail: Located in Okutama, Tokyo, the trail offers visitors stunning views of Okutama lake and the surrounding mountains. It is an easy trail that takes about 90 minutes to complete.

Best Things to Do in Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Hot springs and onsen: Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park is home to several natural hot springs and onsen, a traditional Japanese bathhouse. These hot springs are perfect for relaxing after a long day of hiking.
  • Cycling and Mountain Biking: Cyclists and mountain bikers have numerous trails to explore, such as the upper reaches of the Arakawa River and the Okutama area.
  • River Rafting: The Nagatoro River is a popular destination for white water rafting, attracting visitors from all over the world.
  • Outdoor camping and picnics: The park has several designated campsites and areas where you can enjoy a day of picnics with friends and family.

Week-Long Itinerary for Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park

Day Activity
1 Visit the Chichibu Treasures Museum in Chichibu City.
2 Hike the Mount Mitake Trail in Tokyo.
3 Explore the Nagatoro River and go river rafting.
4 Visit the Mitsumine Shrine near Nagatoro.
5 Explore Chichibu Muse Park and Ikaho Green Bokujo.
6 Hike the Oku-Chichibu Hiking Trail in Saitama.
7 Relax at a local onsen and enjoy the natural hot springs.

Food and Drink Scene of Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chichibu soba: Made with 100 percent buckwheat flour, the soba noodles in Chichibu are thicker than traditional soba noodles, offering a unique taste with a chewy texture.
  • Tofu dishes: Saitama prefecture is known for producing some of the best tofu in Japan. The local tofu dishes include yudofu, a hot pot dish with boiled tofu, and tofu sushi.
  • Houtou: A local noodle dish from Yamanashi prefecture, made with thick, flat noodles and a variety of vegetables in a savory soup.

Local Beverages

  • Sake: Sake is a traditional Japanese fermented rice wine that is produced in many parts of Japan, including Saitama, Tokyo, and Yamanashi.
  • Shochu: Another traditional Japanese alcohol, shochu, is often made from barley, sweet potatoes, or buckwheat.
  • Green Tea: The areas surrounding the park are famous for producing green tea, offering visitors an opportunity to sample the local teas.

Where to Stay in Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Okutama Lodge: A mountain lodge located in Okutama, Tokyo, with beautiful scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Chichibu Kanko Hotel: A hotel located in Chichibu, Saitama, offering traditional Japanese rooms and relaxing hot springs.
  • Shimoyoshida Youth Hostel: A hostel located in Yamanashi, providing budget-friendly accommodation for visitors.

What to Buy in Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Wooden crafts: The area has a long tradition of producing beautiful wooden crafts such as furniture, toys, and other everyday items.
  • Local food products: Visitors can buy a variety of local food products such as soy sauce, tofu, and soba noodles.
  • Japanese sake: Saitama and Yamanashi prefectures are known for their high-quality sake production, offering visitors a chance to sample and purchase different varieties.

Local Culture and Customs of Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park

The local people in Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park take pride in their heritage and culture. Visitors are expected to respect local customs and traditions, including taking off shoes before entering homes and temples, following proper etiquette in onsen, and greeting locals with a polite bow.

Best Time to Visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park

The best time to visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park is from late autumn to early winter, between November and March. During these seasons, the park is covered in colorful autumn foliage, followed by a blanket of snow, and the temperature is perfect for outdoor adventures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Bring appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities.
  • Take care of the environment and dispose of trash responsibly.
  • Try the local food and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Enter restricted areas.
  • Vandalize or damage natural resources.
  • Take flora or fauna from the park.
  • Leave trash behind.

Safety and Health

Safety in Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park

It is recommended that visitors inform someone of their hiking or outdoor adventure plans before heading out. Also, visitors should be prepared for sudden weather changes and carry appropriate gear with them at all times.

Health in Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park

Visitors are advised to carry water and snacks during outdoor activities to keep hydrated and energized. The park has several restaurants and food stalls that offer local food, but visitors should make sure to inquire about any potential allergies beforehand.

Getting to Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park

  • Haneda Airport (HND) - Tokyo: The closest major airport to the park, located approximately 80 km away.
  • Narita International Airport (NRT) - Tokyo: Located approximately 150 km away.

Bus Stations Near Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park

  • Seibu-Chichibu Station: The station is served by the Chichibu Railway Line, connecting Tokyo to Seibu-Chichibu in Saitama. It is the best option for those visiting Chichibu City.
  • Nishi-Akitsu Station: A closer alternative for those visiting the Nagatoro River area.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Renting a car is a convenient way to explore the park, offering visitors the freedom to travel around at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park

The best way to get around the park is by car or bicycle. Local buses and trains are also available, but they have limited schedules and may not be convenient for all visitors. Taxis are an option in some areas, but they can be expensive.

Where to Go Next from Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Lake Kawaguchi: Located in Yamanashi prefecture, the lake is one of the Fuji Five Lakes and offers stunning views of Mount Fuji.
  • Nikko National Park: Located in Tochigi prefecture, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful nature and ancient cultural landmarks, including the famous Toshogu Shrine.
  • Kamakura: Only an hour’s drive south of Tokyo, Kamakura is a coastal town famous for its numerous temples, shrines, and beautiful beaches.

Conclusion

Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers a wide range of activities, breathtaking scenic views, and culturally rich experiences. With our comprehensive travel guide, visitors can plan an unforgettable trip to the park and enjoy all that it has to offer.

Waterfall, Mt. Mitsumine Waterfall, Mt. Mitsumine Mitsumine Shrine Mitsumine Shrine