River Rafting Adventure Two Hours From Tokyo
Embark on an exciting river rafting journey just two hours from Tokyo Station! Begin your adventure by boarding the lightning-fast shinkansen bullet train from Tokyo/Ueno Station to Kumagaya Station, after which a peaceful local train will take you to Kami-Nagatoro Station, making the total journey under two hours. After arriving at Nagatoro, head to Outdoor Center Nagatoro to join an adrenaline-packed whitewater rafting tour. Then enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque rocky paths of Iwadatami in the Nagatoro Gorge followed by lunch in the Nagatoro township. Next, visit the Trick Art Museum, accessible by shuttle bus from Nagatoro Station, then ascend the summit of Mt. Hodosan via ropeway and revel in breathtaking panoramic views. Conclude your Nagatoro trip with a stop by the tranquil Hodosan Shrine.
Start
Ueno Station (7:30 AM)
Approximately 2 hours : From Ueno Station, take the shinkansen bullet train for approx. 30 minutes to Kumagaya Station, then take a train on the Chichibu Railway for approx. 50 minutes to Kami-Nagatoro.
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Unleash your spirit of challenge! Experience an exhilarating rafting adventure in Nagatoro, Saitama, just 120 minutes from the heart of Tokyo!
Experience a rafting tour at one of the foremost spots for rafting
Experience the thrill of rafting just two-hours away from Tokyo! Dive into a 7-kilometer adventure, navigating the exciting rapids nestled between the majestic Chichibu Red Cliffs and the unique natural monument, Iwadatami, an exclusive experience you can only find here. The term "Iwadatami" translates to "rock tatami" or "rock platform." It refers to a natural formation of rocks that resemble the layout of traditional Japanese tatami mats, the key scenic spot along the river. Our certified Rafting Association of Japan Guides, a.k.a RAJ Guides ensure a safe, secure, and, most importantly, enjoyable journey. This half-day escapade, lasting approximately 3 hours, includes photo data to capture those unforgettable moments. With the tour content changing daily based on the water levels, each day brings new and unpredictable thrills! You'll never know what excitement awaits you, making every outing a unique and exhilarating experience. Don't worry if you don't speak much Japanese as English speaking RAJ Guides are also available to make sure the adventure is as enjoyable as it is memorable!
Approximately 15 minuntes : From Kami-Nagatoro, walk to Iwadatami
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Exploring Ishidatami in Nagatoro Gorge - A Scenic Natural Treasure of Japan
Stroll around the heart of Nagatoro at Ishidatami, where rocky landscapes unfold like traditional tatami mats. Cliffs and waterfalls line the opposite shore, while the Arakawa River flows gently in between, forming serene blue pools which are the inspiration for the name “Nagatoro” in Japanese. Indulge in a meal while immersed in the natural allure of the river.
10-minute walk
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Nagatoro Trick Art Yurin Club
This Japan-themed trick art museum features four distinct zones like the Edo Time Slip and Ninja House Experience, letting both children and adults have a blast. Originally constructed in 1928 as a recreation center for the Chichibu Railway Company, the Yurin Club was later relocated to this site in 1980. Visitors can also find a plaque inscribed by Eiichi Shibusawa, the "father of Japanese capitalism," who played a significant role in founding banks and corporations in Japan.
10-minute walk
3:15 PM - 4:00 PM
Mt. Hodosan
Take in the scenery from above with a 5-minute ride on the ropeway from Sanroku Station at the base of Mt. Hodosan. The mountain is considered one of the best spots for plum trees in the Kanto region, and it also has cherry blossoms and a small zoo, making it a popular family destination. At the summit lies the inner sanctum of Hodosan Shrine, which holds a deep historical significance in the Chichibu area alongside Mitsumine Shrine and Chichibu Shrine.
10-minute walk
4:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Hodosan Shrine
Hodosan Shrine is known for its large white torii gate. Its founding is said to date back about 1900 years, when the mountain was given its name “Hodosan,” which means the "mountain that stops fire." Hodosan Shrine is believed to give blessings that protect against fire and theft.
Approximately 2 hours : Walk 10 minutes to Nagatoro Station, then take the Chichibu Railway for 40 minutes to Kumagaya Station, followed by the shinkansen bullet train for 30 minutes to Ueno Station
Goal
Ueno Station (7:00 PM)