11 Must-See Tourist Spots in Minano Town, Saitama Prefecture You Can’t Talk About Chichibu and Nagatoro Without Visiting Here!

Minano Town is located in Chichibu District, Saitama Prefecture. With Nagatoro to the north and Chichibu to the south, many of Saitama’s popular tourist areas are nearby. Of course, Minano Town itself is filled with attractions! The Arakawa River flows through the center of town, where you’ll find a boarding area for river trips. In the eastern part, there are many nature-rich spots for sightseeing.

Moreover, there is even a famous temple such as Kegon-ji, which is part of the Chichibu Pilgrimage Circuit. You haven’t truly experienced Chichibu and Nagatoro unless you’ve been to Minano Town.

1. Minoyama Park

Minoyama Park is a large park located about a 10-minute drive from Chichibu Railway Minano Station. Originally known as “Minoyama,” this park has been stylishly renamed “Minoyama Park.”

There are many charms of Minoyama Park. First, the flowers: from spring to early summer, cherry blossoms, azaleas, and hydrangeas make the mountain burst into color. Nearly 8,000 cherry trees are planted, and many people visit just to catch a glimpse of them.

Also, Minoyama Park is ideal for hiking. Stroll around the grounds while visiting Haruna Shrine and other spots. Immersing yourself in the nature of Chichibu will surely refresh your spirit.

And not to be forgotten is the breathtaking view. Along the hiking trails, there are numerous observation decks from which you can see various attractions of Chichibu. In particular, from the summit observation deck, you can enjoy the night view! The Chichibu Harp Bridge and the twinkling towns of Minano and Chichibu are truly beautiful.

2. Nagatoro River Boat Trip

A classic attraction in Nagatoro, the river boat trip lets you glide along the sparkling clear waters of the Arakawa River while listening to the boatman’s commentary. The Nagatoro boat trip course is divided into two sections: from Oyabana Bridge to Nagatoro Iwatatami, and from Nagatoro Iwatatami to Takasago Bridge. Since the Oyabana Bridge boarding area is located in Minano Town, here we describe the course from Oyabana Bridge to Nagatoro Iwatatami.

First, you’ll encounter the Arakawa Bridge. The red brick bridge perfectly complements the abundant nature, creating a stunning scene. Next, you’ll see the “Kame no Ko Iwa” (Turtle Child Rock). The large rock resembling a turtle is a true masterpiece of nature. And then, as a popular sightseeing spot, there is “Kotaki no Se,” where the rapid current provides an exhilarating boat ride.

If you plan to enjoy a boat trip in Nagatoro, start your journey from Minano Town!

3. Nijūsan Yaji

Located in the southern part of Minano Town, Nijūsan Yaji (also known as Iō-ji) is a temple familiar to locals as “Misawa no Sanya-sama.” This temple is associated with Prince Shōtoku. It is said that when the prince visited here, he carved and enshrined a Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha), which became the foundation of the temple’s history. The pillars of the main hall are adorned with vivid carvings of lions and elephants.

Furthermore, Nijūsan Yaji is the ninth temple on the Chichibu Jūsan Butsu Meguri (the Chichibu Thirteen Buddhas Pilgrimage). Also known as “Tomimai,” it is believed that visiting all thirteen temples will bring prosperity and happiness to a family. If you want to add a dose of happiness to your Chichibu and Minano trip, the Chichibu Thirteen Buddhas Pilgrimage is highly recommended.

4. Chichibu Kegon Falls

Chichibu Kegon Falls is located beyond Suisen-ji, the final temple of the Chichibu 34 Pilgrimage. Because it resembles the famous Kegon Falls in Nikko, it is called “Chichibu Kegon Falls.” Although it may not match the original in scale and force, the transparency of the clear water cascading into the basin is truly mystical! It is known as a spot in Minano where you can feel cool even in summer.

In autumn, the combination of the fall colors and the waterfall creates a spectacular scene that attracts many visitors. Additionally, near Chichibu Kegon Falls are hot springs such as Mangwan no Yu, one of Minano’s proud onsens. As a day-use hot spring facility, it’s a perfect place to take a break during your sightseeing in Minano.

◆ And, as a bonus, don’t miss the unique Fudō Myōō!

Above Chichibu Kegon Falls, there is a large statue of Fudō Myōō. Just look at its form, coloring, and expression—have you ever seen such a Fudō Myōō? Known as a manifestation of the Tathāgata, this fierce-looking deity is said to be determined to save people.

Many visitors come to Minano specifically to admire this rare Fudō Myōō.

5. Tenkuu no Poppy

Located on the border between Minano Town and Higashi-Chichibu Village, Tenkuu no Poppy is a celebrated tourist spot not only in Chichibu and Minano but also one of Saitama’s representative attractions. Nearly 15 million poppies are planted across a vast slope. The poppies burst into brilliant red blooms around the end of May. The contrast between the vivid red poppies, the blue sky, and the fresh green of early summer creates a mesmerizing scene. Many visitors come with their cameras to capture this beautiful spectacle.

Surrounding this red “carpet” of poppies are attractions such as Chichibu Highland Ranch and Aya no Kuni Ranch. If you’re touring the highland areas of Chichibu and Minano in early summer, Tenkuu no Poppy is a must-see.

6. Suichū-ji

The Chichibu 34 Pilgrimage is a famous Kannon (Guanyin) pilgrimage alongside the Shakadō and Saikoku 33 Kannon pilgrimages. The Chichibu 34 Pilgrimage involves visiting temples in Chichibu City, Yokose City, Minano Town, and Ogano Town. Because these temples are densely clustered in Chichibu District, it is known as an easy pilgrimage.

The 34th temple of the Chichibu 34 Pilgrimage is Suichū-ji, located in Minano Town. Suichū-ji also serves as the final stop of the “Hyakukannon Meguri” (the Hundred Kannon Pilgrimage), which spans the Sakado, Saikoku, and Chichibu regions. At its center is a statue of Senju Kannon (Thousand-Armed Kannon), flanked by Amida Nyorai representing the Western Pure Land and Yakushi Nyorai representing the Eastern Lapis Lazuli World. This arrangement of statues is a typical feature of a hundred Kannon temple.

There are many highlights within the temple grounds. First, in front of the Kannon Hall is the “O-Suna Fumi,” where worshiping the principal image is said to confer the same merit as visiting all the Kannon temples. Also, the “Water-Crawling Cave” is believed to purify those who pass through it after completing the pilgrimage, allowing them to return to the secular world cleansed.

If you’re interested in a spiritual sightseeing experience in Chichibu, the Chichibu 34 Pilgrimage is perfect—so be sure to push through until you reach Suichū-ji.

7. Hodosan

Hodosan is a mountain that towers along the border between Minano Town and Nagatoro Town. According to legend, after Yamato Takeru enshrined a deity, a great forest fire threatened the mountain—but a shrine was established in thanks for his salvation. In addition to the main hall, there are subsidiary shrines such as Okumiya and Hōgyoku Inari Shrine, creating an atmosphere charged with spiritual energy.

Hodosan’s appeal isn’t limited to its shrines. There is also the Hodosan Small Animal Park, where you can interact with cute monkeys and deer in nature. Hodosan is also famous for its beautiful plum blossoms. At the Plum Hyakka-en (Plum Hundred Flowers Garden), many varieties of plum trees are planted, offering a delightful sight as you hike the mountain. In addition, the Rokubai-en (Waxberry Garden) is another popular attraction, where the yellow flowers of the waxberry captivate visitors with their fragrance.

Since Hodosan is equipped with a ropeway, it’s an easily accessible mountain. With so many attractions, it’s very convenient for sightseeing.

8. River Terrace Nagatoro

A red brick tourist spot where an SL (steam locomotive) runs, located beneath Oyabana Bridge overlooking the Arakawa River. This is the riverbed of the Arakawa River, where many tourists enjoy barbecues and river play.

This is River Terrace Nagatoro—a new tourist attraction that opened in May 2015. Managed by Chichibu Railway, its services are set to expand. River Terrace Nagatoro is a must-see attraction in Minano Town!

9. Mukuge Natural Park

Mukuge Natural Park is a park where you can enjoy seasonal flower views. In summer, approximately 100,000 mukuge (hibiscus) bloom, spreading large, impressive hibiscus flowers across the area. In February, you can also see the rare “Chichibu Kurenai” flowers. The sight of yellow flowers blooming through the snow is truly moving to visitors.

Furthermore, at Mukuge Natural Park, you can participate in experiences such as making pressed flowers or wreaths. If you’re touring Minano Town with your family, Mukuge Natural Park is an essential stop.

10. Minano Muku Shrine

Minano Muku Shrine is located about a 10-minute walk from Chichibu Railway Minano Station. This shrine is known for its traditional lion dance and kagura, which are designated as important intangible cultural properties, and the traditions are carefully preserved to this day.

At Minano Muku Shrine, there is a unique ema (votive tablet) called the “Nodame” ema. Ema featuring illustrations from the popular manga Nodame Cantabile are sold on the shrine grounds. In fact, the author of Nodame Cantabile, Chitose Ninomiya, is a native of Minano Town and even serves as the town’s tourism ambassador. Minano Muku Shrine is a must-visit for manga fans and music lovers alike.

11. Ōtsuka Kofun

Beside the Arakawa River flowing through Minano, there is a large kofun (ancient burial mound). Known as Ōtsuka Kofun, it is designated as a historic site by Saitama Prefecture. This kofun stands 6 meters tall with a diameter of 30 meters, making it one of the largest in the Chichibu area.

The Chichibu region is home to many ancient burial mounds. Touring these kofun and soaking in the romance of ancient times is a great way to experience Minano.

◎ Summary

We have introduced 11 tourist spots in Minano Town, Saitama Prefecture. From river boat trips and the Sky Poppy to other must-see attractions essential to experiencing Chichibu’s tourism, Minano offers mountains, rivers, waterfalls, beautiful flowers, and historic shrines and temples waiting for you. In addition, Minano is famous for its many vineyards and grape picking—peaking from summer to autumn—making it an ideal souvenir stop for your journey.

Furthermore, Minano Town is well-equipped with hot springs! Near Suichū-ji, there are onsens that help relieve travel fatigue. With cozy cottages and charming guesthouses surrounded by nature, accommodations in Minano are never a problem. Be sure to check out Minano’s tourist information before exploring Chichibu and Nagatoro!