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[Near Tokyo 1-Day Model Course] Discount Train Passes on the Seibu Railway for a Refreshing Summer Trip
Summer in Japan means nothing but refreshingly cool nature destinations and tasty eats under the brilliant blue skies and dazzling sun thanks to this plan below. Hop on the Seibu Railway for a trip near Tokyo that feels like a dream. Keep scrolling for a model course to the Nagatoro area, the go-to spot for larger-than-life nature escapes and cooler temperatures outside the city. As an extra perk, we’ll also throw in some ideas from the Tokorozawa & Honkawagoe area, the place to go for new takes on architecture, honest-to-goodness authentic townscapes, and must-try summer bites.
Two Model Plans for Fresh Japan Summer Vibes on the Seibu Railways
- Plan 1: A Breath of Fresh Air in Nagatoro, Hugged by Nature
- Plan 2: True “Cool” to Discover at the Revamped Old District of Tokorozawa & Honkawagoe
- But Wait, There's More! Three Must-Do Experiences Around Seibu Chichibu Station
- Three Exclusive Discount Passes for Foreign Visitors on Seibu Railway
- Wrap-up
Plan 1: A Breath of Fresh Air in Nagatoro, Hugged by Nature
Located in the northwestern part of Saitama Prefecture, the Nagatoro area is famous for the fast-flowing Arakawa River. It boasts stunning natural landscapes and numerous spots where you can feel the full awe of nature’s power. Whether you're traveling solo or exploring with family, this area has something for everyone to love. Using the Seibu Railway's Limited Express Laview, you can travel directly from Seibu Ikebukuro Line's Ikebukuro Station (SI01) to Seibu Chichibu Station (SI36), the gateway to Chichibu City, in as little as 77 minutes without changing trains! From there, a 20-minute transfer to the Chichibu Railway will bring you to Nagatoro. It's a convenient distance for a quick visit during your Tokyo sightseeing, making it an ideal spot for a day trip.
1. Experience the Scenic "Nagatoro River Boat Ride"
Kick off your trip by heading over to the ticket office near Nagatoro Station to arrange your Nagatoro River Boat Ride. With this one-of-a-kind experience you’re in for a chance to slip down the river while enjoying the breathtaking scenery of the Nagatoro Gorge (Iwadatami Rocks). There are two kinds of 3km courses: Course A takes you from Oyahana Bridge to Iwadatami, and Course B takes you from Iwadatami to Takasago Bridge. Course A features all the thrills of Kotakinose rapids, while Course B has the broader Okawase rapids, offering different levels of excitement.
2. Refresh with Shaved Ice at "Asami Reizo" After Your Activity
After the boat ride, head to the popular sweet shop Asami Reizo. Walk right from Nagatoro Station, pass through the white torii gate, and you’ll find it. Established in 1980 by a traditional natural ice maker, this shop offers natural ice shaved ice. The fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth ice pairs perfectly with their homemade, additive-free syrups. You can swing by Asami Reizo Hodosan Path Shop near Nagatoro Station or the Asami Reizo Kanasaki Main Shop in Kaminagatoro.
3. Escape to the Cooling Shroud and Mystique at Hodosan
After a treat of shaved ice it’s time to head to the Hodosan Ropeway station to reach the summit of Hodosan. From the ropeway, you can take in the expansive views of Hodosan’s natural beauty and the town of Nagatoro below, making it a perfect photo spot. Once you arrive at Hodosan Summit Station, walk about six minutes and climb the 100 stone steps to reach Hodosan Shrine Okumiya. Surrounded by lush greenery, the shrine exudes a sacred and serene atmosphere that provides a refreshing sense of coolness.
Plan 2: True “Cool” to Discover at the Revamped Old District of Tokorozawa & Honkawagoe
Ever on the cusp and just steps from Tokyo, step into the picture-perfect best of past and present preserved at this traditional warehouse district at Tokorozawa and Honkawagoe, known lovingly as "Little Edo". Get here easily by using the Seibu Railway's Limited Express Red Arrow, providing direct trave; from Seibu Shinjuku Station (SS01) to Tokorozawa Station (SS22/SI17) in as little as 28 minutes, and to Honkawagoe Station (SS29) in just 44 minutes. This makes it an easy day trip from Tokyo.
1. The stone architecture of "Tokorozawa Sakura Town" provides a cool and refreshing welcome.
About a 20-minute bus ride from Tokorozawa Station, Tokorozawa Sakura Town is a multifaceted facility centered around the Kadokawa Culture Museum, where you can experience Japanese pop culture. Not only is the impressive "Bookshelf Theater" worth a visit, but the museum itself, designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma, is a must-see! The 40-meter-tall rock façade provides a refreshing sight against the blue sky.
2. Unbeatable taste of Unagi at "Kawagoe Ichinoya" Following Japanese Tradition
An age-old Japanese custom is to eat eel during the hot summer. On this trip, top off your tour across Tokorozawa Sakura Town with a chance to indulge in a luxurious unagi meal. Take the Seibu Shinjuku Line from Tokorozawa to Honkawagoe and visit the famous traditional unagi restaurant "Kawagoe Ichinoya”. The unagi bowl (unaju) with its secret sauce is one tasty treat you won’t soon forget.
3. Cool Down with Sweet Potato Sweets in Honkawagoe
Kawagoe is famous for its sweet potatoes and matcha. Among the various shops offering sweet potato desserts, you can enjoy a variety of unique flavors. If your travel plans are slated for the hot summer season, a local sweet potato ice cream is one key way to cool down.
4. Relax with the Enmusubi Wind Chimes at Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine
A summer highlight in Koedo Kawagoe is the Enmusubi Wind Chimes. Around 1,500 Edo-style wind chimes are illuminated in the precincts of Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, creating a space that billows with fantasy. The sound of the wind chimes and their beautiful colors provide a soothing experience (limited-time event).
But Wait, There's More! Three Must-Do Experiences Around Seibu Chichibu Station
1. Trout Fishing at Komatsuzawa Leisure Farm 【Yokoze Station (SI35)】
Try your hand a trout fishing, an age-old crowd favorite at Komatsuzawa Leisure Farm. Enjoy this activity amidst the serene natural surroundings.
2. Waraji Katsudon 【Seibu Chichibu Station (SI36)】
A Chichibu specialty, Waraji Katsudon, features two large pork cutlets served atop of a bed of rice.
3. Butamiso Don 【Seibu Chichibu Station (SI36)】
Miso-marinated pork grilled to perfection in this rice-based bowl of perfection.
Three Exclusive Discount Passes for Foreign Visitors on Seibu Railway
There are three exclusive discount passes for foreign visitors. The "SEIBU 1Day Pass+Nagatoro" offers unlimited rides for one day on all Seibu Railway lines (except the Tamagawa Line) and the Chichibu Railway section between Mitsumineguchi Station and Nogami/Nagatoro Station. The "SEIBU 1Day Pass" provides unlimited rides for one day on all Seibu Railway lines (except the Tamagawa Line). Lastly, the "SEIBU KAWAGOE PASS" offers a discounted round-trip to the Kawagoe area (Honkawagoe Station) from either Seibu Shinjuku Station, Takadanobaba Station, or Ikebukuro Station. Choose the pass that best suits your destination.
The "SEIBU 1Day Pass+Nagatoro," "SEIBU 1Day Pass," and "SEIBU KAWAGOE PASS" can all be purchased at the Seibu Tourist Information Center Ikebukuro, located at Ikebukuro Station, the starting point for the Limited Express Laview, or at the ticket office for the Limited Express Red Arrow at Seibu Shinjuku Station. When purchasing, you will need to present your passport or residence card (copies or photos are also acceptable). For more details, please check the website below!
Wrap-up
The utmost of Japanese cool awaits, even during this summer with these model plans: immerse yourself in the great outdoors in Nagatoro and enjoy the blend of old and new streets and gourmet delights in Tokorozawa & Kawagoe. Easily accessible and affordable via Seibu Railway, these destinations make perfect side trips before or after your Tokyo sightseeing!