Chichibu in Saitama Prefecture is only about 80 minutes from Ikebukuro by limited express, yet it remains an area where mountain scenery and centuries of culture are still deeply preserved. The gateway to this region is Seibu Railway’s Seibu-Chichibu Station.
Its excellent access from central Tokyo makes it ideal for day trips, and its secluded landscapes and traditional atmosphere are increasingly attracting international visitors looking for an authentic local experience in Japan.

A hot spring connected to the station for instant relief from travel fatigue
One major appeal of Seibu-Chichibu Station is its Seibu-Chichibu Ekimae Onsen Matsuri no Yu, directly connected to the station. The facility offers relaxing hot springs to ease travel fatigue, as well as a food court where you can enjoy local dishes. It is very convenient to stop by right after arriving or just before boarding your return limited express train.

Tourist information center and bicycle rentals
The tourist information center in front of the station offers brochures on must-visit attractions in Chichibu, accommodation options, and restaurants, as well as information on the latest seasonal events, festivals, and flower blooming seasons. Here, you can also rent bicycles to explore the streets of Chichibu.

Seibu Railway offers discount tickets aimed at international travelers to make your trip to Chichibu smoother and more cost-effective.

1. SEIBU 1Day or 2Day Pass
Sold by Seibu Railway, this pass allows unlimited rides on all Seibu lines (excluding the Tamagawa Line) for one or two days. It is very convenient and cost-effective for round trips from Ikebukuro Station or for visiting tourist attractions along the Seibu lines. When purchasing or exchanging the pass, please present a passport issued outside Japan or a Residence Card.

2. SEIBU 1Day Pass + Nagatoro
This pass is recommended for those wishing to enjoy sightseeing in wider areas of Chichibu. It offers unlimited rides for a day on all Seibu lines (excluding the Tamagawa Line) as well as a designated section of the Chichibu Railway (Nogami/Nagatoro to Mitsumineguchi Stations). This great-value pass covers major tourist attractions in the Chichibu area, making it the perfect ticket for visitors wanting to enjoy Nagatoro's nature and river rafting. A separate limited express surcharge is required when boarding limited express trains.

Chichibu is dotted with must-visit scenic spots where you will feel Japan's rich nature and historical faith.

1. Mitsumine Shrine, a powerful spiritual site
Mitsumine Shrine sits deep in the mountains at an elevation of 1,100 meters and is famous nationwide as a powerful spiritual site. It is one of the highlights of a visit to Chichibu. From Seibu-Chichibu Station, it takes about 75 minutes by Seibu Sightseeing Bus. Please note that during the autumn foliage season, the number of private vehicles increases and the surrounding roads often become congested, so even buses may take longer than usual to reach the shrine.

2. Misotsuchi no Tsurara Icicles: Enjoy ice art only in winter
Misotsuchi no Tsurara Icicles are formed naturally along the riverbank during the harsh winter months. Renowned for their sheer power and beauty, these massive icicles have become a winter tradition in Chichibu. They are illuminated at night during winter to create a magical scene. To access the Misotsuchi no Tsurara Icicles, take the Seibu Sightseeing Bus on the Mitsumine Shrine Line, and get off at the Misotsuchi stop.

03_Kanzo-otoshi Mountain Stream, Chichibu City

Various seasonal festivals and events are held in Chichibu throughout the year, but the largest and most popular is the Chichibu Night Festival, held every December 2nd and 3rd.

The splendid Chichibu Night Festival, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage
The Chichibu Night Festival is counted among Japan's Three Great Float Festivals, alongside Kyoto's Gion Festival and Hida's Takayama Festival. Its yatai float ritual and Kagura dance are also on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
The stars of the festival are six floats called kasahoko and yatai, well decorated with lanterns and adorned with vividly colored carvings and embroidery. Renowned for their gorgeous appearance, they are also called the “Moving Yomeimon Gate.” The floats parade through the night streets, accompanied by the powerful performance of the Chichibu Yatai-bayashi music.

The festival's climax and crowds
The festival culminates on December 3rd, when magnificent fireworks light up the night sky during the main event, and the floats, illuminated by lanterns, are pulled up the steep slope of Dango-zaka. This event attracts many visitors each year.
The area is especially crowded during the day on December 3rd, from around 11 AM to 2 PM, and during the night, from when the procession departs Chichibu Shrine shortly after 7 PM until around 10 PM, when it arrives at the temporary shrine.
On festival days, extensive traffic restrictions are enforced in central Chichibu, so we recommend traveling by train and checking the schedule for extra trains (running until around midnight on December 3rd).

Chichibu is an area that perfectly blends history, culture, nature, and hot springs, offering international visitors a place to discover Japan's profound charm while being easily accessible from central Tokyo. Utilize the cost-effective transportation tickets while planning your trip to Chichibu to enjoy the spectacular and lavish Chichibu Night Festival and the breathtaking seasonal views.