About Nagatoro Gorge

Nagatoro Gorge, located in the Chichibu region of Saitama Prefecture, is a popular tourist destination where visitors can enjoy natural beauty and outdoor activities. The gorge, carved by the Arakawa River, has beautiful rock pavements and crystal clear water, creating a magnificent landscape that enchants visitors with its seasonal scenery. Especially during the season of fresh green leaves and autumn foliage, the colorful scenery of mountains and rivers attracts many photographers and tourists who want to enjoy nature to the fullest.

The main attraction of Nagatoro Gorge is a large expanse of rocks called “iwadatami. It is a natural beauty of formations carved by the Arakawa River over a long period of time. Visitors can directly experience the rock pavement as they walk, and enjoy the spectacular view while listening to the murmur of the river. Walking on the rock pavement, you can feel the expanse and the power of nature, and especially the beauty of the shining surface of the water and the flow of the river when seen very close to the river is soothing.

Nagatoro Gorge also offers a variety of activities. One of the most popular is “line rafting,” a river rafting experience. Riding on a wooden boat, visitors can enjoy the magnificent scenery of the valley while navigating the rapids and gentle currents of the Arakawa River. While listening to the boatman's skillful steering and the guide's explanations, you will feel a sense of oneness with nature as you experience the powerful line rafting experience. Especially during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage season in fall, the scenery reflected on the surface of the river is extremely beautiful, providing a special memory of Nagatoro Gorge.

Nagatoro Gorge is also a great place for hiking and trekking. There are several well-maintained trail courses in the area, with routes that can be enjoyed by both beginners and advanced hikers. The hiking course to Hodo-san is especially popular, and from the top of the mountain, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Nagatoro cityscape and the Arakawa River. Hodosan Ropeway is also located at the top of the mountain, making it easy to enjoy the panoramic view from the top of the mountain.

In addition, Nagatoro Valley is not only rich in nature, but also in cultural attractions. The surrounding area still retains its old townscape, lined with traditional stores, eateries, and souvenir shops. In particular, local delicacies such as Chichibu soba (buckwheat noodles), miso fries, and warajikatsu-don (waraji pork cutlet served on top of a bowl of rice), which are specialties of the Chichibu area, are definitely worth tasting when you visit. Visitors can experience the richness of Nagatoro's climate by strolling through the area, experiencing its history and culture, and savoring the local delicacies.

The area around Nagatoro Gorge is also known as a good place for star gazing at night. Since there is little light pollution in the surrounding area, you can see a star-filled sky on a clear day. Astronomical observation and enjoying the silence of the river at night are also recommended.

All in all, Nagatoro Gorge is a sightseeing spot where the beauty of natural formations, fun activities, history and culture are interwoven. The scenery of Nagatoro, which shows different expressions depending on the season and time of day, will bring you new discoveries and impressions every time you visit.