Tokyo: Chichibu Valley Driving Tour to Buddhist Temples

Tokyo , Japan

Tokyo: Chichibu Valley Driving Tour to Buddhist Temples

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About this experience

First, you will meet the guide, Ryo in front of the entrance of Seibu-Ikebukuro Line(East side of JR Ikebukuro station).

After having 80min trip by an express train to Seibu-Chichibu station, your guide, Ryo will accompany you to 5 different Buddhist temples that has nice sceneries of nature and a variety of Buddhist deity statues by car. Ryo will explain the significance of Buddhism among Japanese people and how it is related to their lives.

Next, Ryo will also take you to a nice observatory that you can access after a short walk in the forest, and where you can see the whole valley of Chichibu city and the mountains. From that place, you can see a variety of Geographic features, such as the symbolic mountain of Chichibu, Mt. Buko.

At the end, you will visit Chichibu Shrine that is known for Chichibu Night Festival and you can learn how it is unique since the ancient times.

Available options

Tokyo: Chichibu Valley Driving Tour to Buddhist Temples

What's included

Bottled water

In-person Guide

Lunch

Air-conditioned vehicle

Coffee and/or Tea

Detailed itinerary

You will meet the guide in front of the entrance of Seibu-Ikebukuro station, then will take an express train to Seibu-Chichibu station for about 80min

You will meet the guide, Ryo in front of the exit gate of Seibu-Chichibu station.

The tour starts from the small shrine that is located between Chichibu Shrine and Mt. Buko.

You will visit a small museum space at Chichibu City Hall that introduces unique geographic features in the entire area of Chichibu city.

You will walk Dango-zaka Slope, which many magnificent floats pass when Chichibu Night Festival is held in December

Jigen-ji Temple, the 13th Buddhist temple for pilgrimage

Kinsyo-ji Temple, the 4th Buddhist temple for pilgrimage

You will be able to see beautiful rice fields in Yokoze Town.

Hashidate-do Temple, the 28th Buddhist Temple for pilgrimage

You will be able to explore a cave made of lime stone just next to the cafe, dating back from the 12th-century(optional).

The host will take you to a lovely cafe that has quality coffee and a variety of sweets so that you can have a relaxing coffee break halfway through the tour(approximately 30min).

The host will also take you to a nice observatory that you can access after a short walk in the forest, and where you can see the whole valley of Chichibu city and the mountains.

Ongaku-ji Temple, the 23rd Buddhist temple for pilgrimage

When you go back to the center of the city by car, you will be able to see the beautiful scenery from Chichibu-Koen Bridge.

Saiko-ji Temple, the 16th Buddhist temple for pilgrimage

Chichibu Shrine

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

You will meet the guide, Ryo in front of the entrance of Seibu-Ikebukuro Line(East side of JR Ikebukuro station).

About Tokyo

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a bustling metropolis that beautifully blends traditional culture with cutting-edge technology. Known for its neon-lit streets, historic temples, and world-class cuisine, Tokyo offers a unique experience that caters to every type of traveler.

Top Attractions

Senso-ji Temple

Senso-ji is Tokyo's oldest temple and one of its most significant. The temple's massive lantern and five-story pagoda are iconic landmarks.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (small fee for some areas)

Meiji Shrine

Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. It is surrounded by a beautiful forest.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free

Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing is the world's busiest pedestrian crossing and a symbol of Tokyo's bustling urban life. It's a must-see for its chaotic yet orderly nature.

Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (¥2,200 for Shibuya Sky)

Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in Japan and the second tallest freestanding structure in the world. It offers breathtaking views of the city.

Architecture 2-3 hours ¥2,100 to ¥3,100 (USD $15 to $22)

Odaiba

Odaiba is a man-made island in Tokyo Bay known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's a great place for families and tech enthusiasts.

Entertainment Half day to full day Varies by attraction

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sushi

Fresh raw fish served on vinegared rice, a staple of Japanese cuisine.

Dinner Contains fish, can be vegetarian with substitutes.

Ramen

Noodle soup with various broths and toppings, a popular comfort food.

Lunch/Dinner Vegan and vegetarian options available.

Tempura

Deep-fried seafood and vegetables, known for its crispy texture.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and deep-fried ingredients.

Okonomiyaki

Savory pancake with various ingredients, often topped with sauce and bonito flakes.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and can be made vegetarian.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Parasailing at Odaiba Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Traditional tea ceremonies Kimono rentals and photo shoots Boat tours on the Sumida River Beach activities at Odaiba

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn)

These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. However, these are also the busiest times for tourism.

10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Tokyo is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public order. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis and check fares before getting in.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Getting there

By air

Narita International Airport • 60 km (37 miles) from city center
Haneda Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center

By train

Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station

By bus

Tokyo Station Bus Terminal, Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Tokyo's subway system is efficient, clean, and punctual. It consists of multiple lines operated by Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Shibuya Shinjuku Asakusa Ginza Akihabara

Day trips

Nikko

120 km (75 miles) from Tokyo • Full day

Nikko is a city known for its beautiful shrines, temples, and natural scenery. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

Kamakura

50 km (31 miles) from Tokyo • Half day to full day

Kamakura is a coastal town known for its historic temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha statue. It's a great place to experience traditional Japanese culture.

Hakone

90 km (56 miles) from Tokyo • Full day or overnight

Hakone is a hot spring resort town known for its onsen (hot springs), scenic views of Mount Fuji, and the Open-Air Museum. It's a popular destination for relaxation and nature.

Festivals

Sannō Matsuri • Mid-June (every 2 years) Kanda Matsuri • Mid-May (every 2 years) Sumida River Fireworks Festival • Last Saturday of July

Pro tips

Use IC cards like Suica or Pasmo for convenient and discounted public transport.
Download useful apps like Google Maps, Japan Transit Planner, and Japan Travel by Navitime.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
Carry cash, as some smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.