Chichibu – Nature, Temples & Netflix Fame

Chichibu, tucked into the mountains of western Saitama Prefecture, is a hidden gem that blends small-town charm, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural scenery. While it may have gained international attention thanks to the popular anime Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day, which was set in and around the town, Chichibu’s appeal runs much deeper than its pop culture fame. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, locals smile warmly at visitors, and every season paints the landscape with a different palette—from mossy greens and mountain mists to pink phlox fields and golden autumn leaves.

Easily reachable from Tokyo yet still under the radar for many travelers, Chichibu offers a peaceful break from the city without the crowds. It’s an excellent destination for couples seeking a quiet day surrounded by nature, or families looking for a slower-paced outing with space to breathe. Kids will love exploring the wide-open spaces of Chichibu Muse Park, spotting statues and carvings at ancient shrines, or tasting local treats from one of the cozy cafés or soba shops scattered throughout town. The nearby Hitsujiyama Park is especially magical in spring, when the shibazakura (moss phlox) bloom in bright pink waves across the hillside. Whether you're a culture-seeker, nature lover, or just in need of a day to recharge, Chichibu offers a refreshing blend of the old and the outdoors—just 90 minutes from Shinjuku.

Getting There

From Shinjuku Station: Take the Seibu Ikebukuro Line Limited Express Red Arrow to Seibu-Chichibu Station (about 95 minutes, ¥1,500).

From Shibuya Station: Take the JR Yamanote Line to Ikebukuro, then transfer to the Seibu Line (about 2 hours total, ¥1,500).

Places to Visit

• Hitsujiyama Park – Famous for its pink moss phlox fields in spring. Great picnic spot with Mt. Buko as a backdrop.
  
• Chichibu Shrine – Over 2,000 years old, this shrine features detailed carvings, including a tiger that supposedly inspired Tiger and Dragon folklore.
  
• Chichibu Muse Park – A huge recreational park with play areas, forest trails, and musical fountains. Perfect for kids to burn off energy.
  
• Chichibu Meisen Museum – Learn about traditional silk weaving and even try your hand at it. A cultural hands-on bonus.
  
• Chichibu has it’s fair share of art museums and also a local festival museum which was fun to check out - they have life size replicas of the things used in the local town festival which is a yearly occurrence. It’s called the Chichibu Festival Exhibition Hall
  
• Bukou Shuzo Sake Brewery – For adults looking to sample a bit of local flavor, the Bukou Shuzo Sake Brewery offers free tours and tastings of their handcrafted sake. It’s a warm, welcoming spot where you can learn about traditional brewing methods passed down through generations—and maybe even take home a bottle or two as a souvenir. This is a small, family-run sake brewery with tastings and warm staff. Adults will appreciate this peaceful detour
  

If you have more time definitely check out the Icicles of MIsotsuchi if you are there the right time of year (January/February)

Places to Eat

1. Bamboo Chichibu – Soba specialists with delicious tempura sets and a calm atmosphere.
   
2. Banba Curry – Homey curry shop with retro vibes and hearty servings.
   
3. La Fattoria – Italian-style countryside dining with pasta, pizza, and rustic charm.
   
4. Café Pekepon – Quirky, cozy café with hand-drip coffee, light bites, and anime-inspired decor.

Sample Itinerary

10:30 AM – Arrive in Chichibu and head to Hitsujiyama Park.
12:00 PM – Visit Chichibu Shrine and have lunch at Bamboo or Banba Curry.
2:00 PM – Explore Muse Park or visit the Meisen Museum.
3:30 PM – Stop by Bukou Sake Brewery for a taste and souvenir.
4:30 PM – Relax with coffee at Café Pekepon before heading back.

Whether you're chasing temples, pirate ships, sakura-covered hills, or a steaming bowl of ramen by the sea, these day trips from Tokyo are packed with adventure, culture, and plenty of photo ops. They're all easy to access from central Tokyo—and even easier to enjoy when you have a comfy base to come home to. At Tokyo Family Stays, our spacious, fully equipped homes are perfect for families, couples, or groups looking for convenience, comfort, and local charm and are perfect home bases to take short trips to Nikko, Kawagoe Hakone, Yokohama or others - , there's no shortage of great escapes. Whether it’s a first-time visit or your fifteenth, Tokyo and its surroundings always have something new to discover—and we’d love to host you while you explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is the best time to visit Hitsujiyama Park for the moss phlox season?

The famous “Shibazakura Hill” at Hitsujiyama Park is usually at its peak in late April to early May. Bright carpets of pink, purple, and white moss phlox cover the hillside, making it one of the most colorful spring experiences near Tokyo.

2. Is Chichibu suitable for a day trip with kids?

Yes, definitely! Chichibu is about 90 minutes from Tokyo by train, making it a very doable day trip. Families love the flower parks, nature walks, Chichibu Shrine, and local treats like miso potato. Kids will also enjoy riding the Seibu Limited Express trains, which feel like part of the adventure.

3. Are there any guided tours available in Chichibu for first-time visitors?

Yes, guided tours are available in both Japanese and English. Some focus on seasonal highlights like the moss phlox or autumn foliage, while others explore shrines, sake breweries, and cultural sites. Tours can be booked through travel agencies or platforms like Klook, Viator, or even local tourism offices.

We also recommend you check out some of our respected partners, Arigato Travel, Rakuten Travel Experiences, and Unseen Japan, close to when you are travelling.

4. Can you visit the Chichibu Festival Exhibition Hall year-round?

Yes. The Chichibu Festival Exhibition Hall is open year-round and introduces the famous December Chichibu Night Festival (a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage). Families can enjoy festival floats, traditional music, and even VR experiences of the lively parade.

We definitely recommend heading to the 2nd floor for a very different view.

5. How long should I spend at the Bukou Sake Brewery tasting?

Allow approximately 30–45 minutes for the tour and tasting. While adults enjoy sake sampling, kids can sip locally made juices or explore the shop. It’s a nice, short cultural stop that won’t tire little ones out. Plus, it's a great place to pick up some souvenirs to take home!

6. Are there vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Chichibu?

Yes, though options may be limited compared to Tokyo. Look for soba noodle shops (zaru soba with dipping sauce is usually vegetarian-friendly), seasonal vegetable dishes, and tofu-based meals. Some cafés and modern restaurants in town also cater to vegetarian diets, and often, if stuck, Italian restaurants almost always have vegetarian options along with Indian restaurants, so these shouldn’t be overlooked when outside of Tokyo!

7. Do I need to book tickets in advance for the Seibu Limited Express to Chichibu?

We recommend booking in advance, especially during the flower season (April–May) or weekends. Reserved seating ensures a smooth, comfortable ride for families. Tickets can be purchased at Seibu Line stations or online.

8. Is Chichibu accessible with a stroller or wheelchair?

Yes, though with some caveats. Train stations like Seibu-Chichibu are stroller- and wheelchair-friendly. Attractions such as Hitsujiyama Park have paved paths, but some areas may be steep or uneven, and it is more hilly than most parts of Tokyo. Shrines and older cultural sites may have steps. Overall, it’s manageable if you plan routes carefully.

At Tokyo Family Stays, we love recommending Chichibu for families who want a slower-paced getaway surrounded by nature and culture. From flower fields to festival traditions, it’s a refreshing contrast to Tokyo’s hustle—perfect for making family memories in just one day.