Chichibu

Situated in a beautiful natural environment with a historical atmosphere, Chichibu has a lot to offer visitors regardless of the season. In the spring you can view the grounds carpeted by Shibazakura (pink moss) flowers, which look like sakura (cherry blossoms) in Hitsujiyama Park. If you go by car drive on back past the fields of blossoms and you'll find an area to relax and enjoy a picnic lunch.

Of course, during the sakura season, which lasts a bit longer in Chichibu as compared to Tokyo, you can see a nice variety of cherry trees and other flowers as you make your way along the highway.

In the summer you can take boat tours on the Arakawa (Ara River). This river runs from Saitama Prefecture to Tokyo. You'll have your choice of a gentle boat ride or you can raft your way down the river with some runs through the rapids. Boat rides are available from March through mid-December while rafting operates year round.