Chichibu Steam Locomotive and Nagatoro River Cruise Day Trip

What's included

What you'll see and do

1. After meeting your tour conductor travel approximately 3 hours by comfortable sightseeing bus to Yorii Station. Board the nostalgic Chichibu SL Paleo Express, a steam locomotive that recreates the atmosphere of Japan's classic railway era. The train travels through the scenic countryside of the Chichibu region, offering a relaxing journey and a chance to experience one of Japan's few regularly operated steam trains. The train ride lasts approximately 26 to 30 minutes. Please note that the boarding section may be adjusted depending on operating conditions. Autumn foliage is typically at its best from mid-November through late November.

   30 minutes here · Admission included

2. Arrive in Nagatoro, a scenic area renowned for its striking river gorge and beautiful natural landscapes. During your stay, enjoy a boat cruise along the river, where you can admire the dramatic cliffs, rock formations, and seasonal scenery from the water. The river journey offers a different perspective of the gorge and is one of Nagatoro's most popular experiences. You will also have free time to explore the famous Iwadatami Rock Terraces, a remarkable geological formation designated as a National Natural Monument. The broad rock surfaces along the river create one of the most distinctive landscapes in the region. An included lunch features a local specialty rice bowl topped with miso-marinated pork, a popular dish in the Chichibu area. Autumn foliage is typically at its best from mid-November through late November.

   120 minutes here

3. Continue for 10 minutes by bus to Hodosan Shrine, one of the three major shrines of the Chichibu region. Surrounded by nature and seasonal colors, the shrine has long been known as a place of worship and is regarded as one of the Kanto region's notable spiritual sites. Enjoy free time to explore the shrine grounds and appreciate the tranquil atmosphere. Autumn foliage is typically at its best from mid-November through late November. After sightseeing, begin the return journey to Tokyo.

   60 minutes here

Where it starts and ends

Options you can book

• Depart from Ikebukuro

  Starting point: Ikebukuro Sunshine Bus Terminal, Japan, 170-0013 Tokyo, Toshima City, Higashiikebukuro, 3-chōme−1−１ サンシャイン 文化 会館 1F

• Depart from Tokyo

• Depart from Shinjuku

  Starting point: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Large Bus Parking Lot Entrance, 2-chōme-2-5 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan

• Depart from Ueno

  Starting point: Parks Ueno Store, 7-47 Uenokōen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0007, Japan

Before you book

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Languages

ja, en

Ticket

Mobile Only

Runs on

Tue, Sat, Sun

Group size

Up to 15 travelers per booking

Operated by

Club Tourism International Inc.

Know before you go

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• This tour is operated for both Japanese and foreign customers. A Japanese tour conductor will accompany the group and provide key information using a translation app. Please note that the tour conductor is not a tour guide and will focus on sharing essential information during the tour.
• Infant (0-2 years old) are free of charge with no arrangement
• Delays, shortenings or omissions made to the itinerary due to traffic, weather or other circumstances that are beyond the control of the tour operator are not subject to refund.
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be contacted 5 days prior to your travel date and offered an alternative or full refund.
• According to traffic conditions etc, the order of the itinerary may be changed and the bus arrival may be delayed
• The best time to view autumn leaves varies depending on the weather and temperature of the season. The tour schedule is based on the condition of the autumn leaves in the past years. However, there are some cases where you are not able to enjoy the scenery as in the photo. Please note there will be no refund regardless of the conditions of the autumn leaves. If the conditions of the autumn leaves are poor, visiting times may be shortened. Typical Peak Season: mid to late November.
• Please note that we are unable to accommodate special dietary requests, including food allergies. If you have specific dietary needs, we recommend making your own meal arrangements. No refunds will be provided for meals.
• Delays or non-participation due to public transportation delays will be subject to cancellation fees. The tour will depart at the scheduled time listed.
• The boarding section of the Chichibu SL Paleo Express may be changed depending on reservation availability.
• The order of the itinerary may be adjusted based on the scheduled boarding time of the steam locomotive.
• In the unlikely event that the steam locomotive (SL) becomes inoperable due to mechanical issues, the train will be pulled by an electric locomotive (EL) instead. In such cases, the reserved-seat fee of ¥900 will be refunded.
• Your tour conductor will provide information regarding the designated boarding section of the SL. The itinerary and schedule may be adjusted according to the train's operating schedule and boarding time.
• Reserved seats will be provided; however, seat assignments will be determined by the tour operator. You may be asked to share a table or seating area with members of another group.

Photos