Chichibu is an underrated gem for travelers seeking authentic rural Japan combined with spiritual sites, scenic landscapes, and a laid-back atmosphere. Unlike larger tourist hotspots, Chichibu offers a quieter, more personal look into Japanese culture and nature. Whether you’re interested in visiting ancient Buddhist temples, exploring shrines in the mountains, or cruising along river valleys, this area has a rich variety of experiences. One standout is the Chichibu Valley Driving Tour to Buddhist Temples, which offers a peaceful route through history and natural beauty, guided by someone who knows the stories behind these sacred sites.
Another excellent option is the Chichibu Mitsumine Shrine and Nagatoro 1 day private tour, which combines mountain spirituality with fun river activities and free time for shopping. For those who want a comprehensive day trip, the Tokyo: Nagatoro, Mitsumine Shrine & Waterfalls One-Day Tour offers a full itinerary of waterfalls, historic shrines, and beautiful views—all within a manageable 10-hour day.
Below, we’ll explore these three tours in detail, helping you find the one that best suits your interests and travel style.
1. Tokyo: Chichibu Valley Driving Tour to Buddhist Temples
This 6-hour guided driving tour offers a chance to visit some of the most notable Buddhist temples in the region, including those founded in the 13th century. Perfect for those interested in Japanese religious traditions, this tour combines cultural insight with scenic views of the Chichibu Valley. The guide, Ryo, shares deep knowledge about Japanese religious views and local customs, making this a very enriching experience.
Starting from Ikebukuro, you’ll travel by train for about two hours before heading into the countryside. The itinerary includes a visit to historical temples, with a special viewpoint to appreciate the valley’s expansive beauty. Along With temple visits, you’ll stop at a local café for coffee and enjoy sightseeing at various viewpoints. The tour culminates with a visit to the Chichibu Shrine, where you can learn about local spiritual practices.
What makes this tour stand out is its small group size—limited to four participants—allowing for a more personalized experience. The focus on cultural and religious history makes it ideal for travelers interested in Japan’s spiritual side, especially those who want a relaxed, immersive journey.
Bottom Line: If you want an intimate, history-rich exploration of Chichibu’s temples and natural scenery, this guided tour offers a balanced mix of culture and nature in a convenient half-day format.
2. Chichibu Mitsumine Shrine and Nagatoro 1 day private tour
For around $161 per person, this 10.5-hour private tour is tailored for those wanting a full day of sightseeing in the Chichibu area. The tour combines a visit to the majestic Mitsumine Shrine, which is set high in the Kumotori Sacred Mountains, with a river cruise at Nagatoro, and some leisure time in the town center.
The Mitsumine Shrine is famous for its striking architecture and mountain setting, making it a must-see for nature lovers and spiritual seekers alike. After exploring the shrine, you’ll enjoy the Arakawa River’s famous Nagatoro river cruise, which offers stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and riverbanks. The tour also provides time to stroll through Chichibu’s charming town, with options for lunch and shopping, plus a visit to a local sake shop.
This private option is ideal for travelers who want flexibility and a more personalized experience. The guide’s local knowledge ensures you visit the most photogenic spots and get insider tips. The inclusion of the river cruise adds a fun, relaxing element that complements the spiritual and cultural sites.
Bottom Line: This tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive day trip with a mix of mountain shrines, river adventures, and local culture, offering good value for a full, immersive day.
3. Tokyo: Nagatoro, Mitsumine Shrine & Waterfalls One-Day Tour
Spanning about 10 hours, this full-day bus tour from Tokyo offers a curated experience of Nagatoro’s scenic beauty, the impressive Mitsumine Shrine, and the spectacular waterfalls and ice formations of Oku-Chichibu. It’s perfect for those who like a bit of everything—nature, history, and local flavor—without worrying about the logistics of planning multiple stops.
The tour begins in Shinjuku and includes a scenic bus ride through rural landscapes. You’ll visit Nagatoro, where you can walk, shop, or simply enjoy the river views, and then head to Mitsumine Shrine for a chance to admire traditional architecture amid mountain scenery. The trip also features a stop at Oku-Chichibu Great Falls and the famous Misotsuchi Ice Pillars, especially striking in winter.
A key highlight is the local lunch, featuring specialties like Nagatoro soba or a bento box, which makes the day more enjoyable and authentic. The tour operates for a minimum of five people, with final confirmation upon booking, so it’s a good choice for small groups or families.
Bottom Line: If you want an all-in-one experience with easy transportation from Tokyo and varied sightseeing—waterfalls, shrine visits, and scenic walks—this tour delivers a full day of memorable sights with convenience.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider the following. If your main interest is deep culture in Buddhist temples, the Chichibu Valley Driving Tour is ideal. For a full-day private experience that includes mountain shrines and river cruises, the Chichibu Mitsumine Shrine and Nagatoro 1 day private tour offers flexibility and personalized attention. If you prefer a guided group tour from Tokyo with a mix of waterfalls, shrines, and scenic views, then the Nagatoro, Mitsumine Shrine & Waterfalls Tour is your best bet.
Also, think about your travel style—do you want a small, intimate experience, or a full-day adventure that’s easy to book from Tokyo? Budget and time are factors too; the private tour tends to be more expensive but offers customization, while group tours might be more economical.
Final Thoughts
Chichibu’s diverse offerings—from spiritual temples and mountain shrines to river cruises and waterfalls—make it a compelling destination outside Tokyo. For travelers interested in Japanese culture, nature, or history, these tours provide rich experiences without overwhelming logistics. The small-group and private options give a more personal touch, while the full-day Tokyo departure tours maximize sightseeing in a single day.
If you’re planning a trip, consider booking early—especially for private tours—and pick one that matches your interests and energy level. Whether you’re after serene temple visits, scenic river adventures, or a full day of exploring waterfalls, Chichibu offers a rewarding taste of rural Japan that’s worth making time for.