Nagatoro

Attraction

Last updated September 07, 2026 Reviewed by the Japan Voyage editorial team

Part of Chichibu

Prefecture

Saitama

Type

Attraction

N/A

0 reviews

Restaurant Train Access Cafe

About This Destination

Scenic river gorge along the Arakawa River featuring thrilling boat rides through rapids, dramatic rock formations, and vivid autumn foliage.

Nagatoro is a river town in Chichibu District, Saitama Prefecture, centered around a dramatic gorge carved by the Arakawa River. The most popular activity is the traditional wooden boat ride through the rapids, where boatmen navigate the swift currents using long wooden poles while passengers enjoy views of towering rock formations. The Iwadatami rock terraces, layers of crystalline schist sculpted by millennia of erosion, are a designated Natural Monument and the area's geological highlight. In autumn, the gorge transforms into a corridor of brilliant red and gold foliage, best viewed from the river or the Hodosan Ropeway. The nearby Hodosan Shrine offers panoramic views of the valley. Nagatoro is easily accessible from Tokyo in about two hours via the Chichibu Railway.

Location

Prefecture: Saitama

Address: Nagatoro, Saitama, Japan

Nearest Station: Nagatoro Station

Best time to visit: Spring for cherry blossoms and summer for river boating down the Arakawa rapids; autumn foliage as well

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Food Options: Riverside restaurants serve ayu (sweetfish) grilled on charcoal and soba noodles. Kakigori (shaved ice) shops are popular in summer. Local specialties include miso-glazed potato and galette crepes.

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Nagatoro from Tokyo?

From Ikebukuro, take the Seibu Line to Seibu-Chichibu, then transfer to the Chichibu Railway. Alternatively, take the Tobu Tojo Line to Yorii and switch to the Chichibu Railway; the journey takes roughly 2 to 2.5 hours.

What is Nagatoro famous for?

Nagatoro is best known for its traditional river boat rides (the Nagatoro Line Kudari) down the Arakawa River, gliding past the striking Iwadatami rock terraces. The area also has Hodosan Shrine and a ropeway up Mt. Hodo.

How much do the Nagatoro river boat rides cost?

The Nagatoro Line Kudari river boat rides cost around ¥2,000 for adults. The boats typically run from spring through autumn, with the autumn foliage season being especially popular.

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