Autumn Nagatoro Walking Course to Admire the Fall Foliage

Kanaishi Aqueduct Bridge is one of Nagatoro's top spots for spectacular autumn foliage. It spans the Arakawa River between Nagatoro Station and Nogami Station on the Chichibu Railway line, offering sweeping 360-degree views of brilliant fall colors from above. Looking down from the bridge, you can see the Arakawa River flowing below, and if you're lucky, you might spot a traditional Japanese boat making its way downstream. With panoramic views of Nagatoro's changing seasonal scenery, the bridge is also a popular hiking destination throughout the year.

About a 20-minute walk from Kanaishi Aqueduct Bridge lies Nagatoro Iwadatami, a nationally designated Place of Scenic Beauty and National Monument. This unique landscape was created by uplifted rock strata and looks like endless rows of tatami mats spread across the ground. The magnificent, colorful autumn foliage covering the Arakawa River is best appreciated from a sightseeing boat floating downstream. For those with plenty of time and energy, there's also a walking route that crosses from Kanaishi Aqueduct Bridge to the opposite bank and circles around the entire Iwadatami area. It takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes and lets you fully experience Nagatoro's spectacular natural beauty.

Mount Hodosan can be reached from Nagatoro Iwadatami in about 35 minutes on foot and by ropeway. Each year in mid-November, the ropeway gondola’s wide windows provide breathtaking views of Mount Hodosan and the town of Nagatoro, both painted in autumn colors. From the summit of Mount Hodosan, you can take in sweeping 360-degree views, with the Chichibu mountain range visible in the distance. At the mountain's base stands Hodosan Jinja Shrine, one of the three major Chichibu shrines. Walking along the approach, you'll encounter a white torii gate surrounded by brilliant autumn foliage, creating a striking contrast of colors.

Around 35 minutes from Mount Hodosan by foot and ropeway, Tsuki no Ishi Momiji Park is one of Nagatoro’s top autumn foliage locations and is listed among Japan’s top 100 autumn leaves spots. Every November, it attracts many visitors eager to see the peak fall colors, with evening illuminations adding a magical touch. The nearby Saitama Museum of Natural History features a maple forest where you can admire the autumn colors of numerous maple varieties.