Nagatoro in northern Saitama is famous for its dramatic Arakawa River gorge, where traditional flat-bottomed boats (kudari-bune) are poled through gentle rapids beneath towering rock walls covered in autumn maples. The 3-kilometre river journey takes approximately 30 minutes and offers intimate views of crimson and orange foliage reflected in clear green water. The historic Hodosan Shrine on the ridge above and the Nagatoro hiking trails provide excellent walking options before or after the cruise. The area is accessible in about 80 minutes from Ikebukuro on the Seibu Chichibu Line.
- Type
- Experience
- Category
- Autumn Leaves
- Season
- Autumn
- Month
- Late October to Mid November
- Region
- Kanto
- Prefecture
- Saitama
- City
- Nagatoro
Highlights
- ◆Traditional wooden boat cruise through autumn-lit gorge rapids
- ◆Sheer cliff walls draped in crimson and orange maples
- ◆Clear green Arakawa River reflecting autumn colour
- ◆Hodosan Shrine ridge trail for elevated foliage views
- ◆Easy day trip from Ikebukuro on Seibu railway