Chichibu Geogravity Park

"While Kyoto is the most famous producer of kimono textiles, it’s far from the only one in Japan. Nestled amidst spectacular mountains, kimono textiles have also been crafted in the Chichibu region for around 2,000 years. Sericulture, the cultivation of silkworms for silk production, flourished in mountainous regions like Chichibu where rice cultivation was limited. Initially, silk was used as clothing for commoners, with stronger varieties prized by warriors. Over time, advancements in design gave rise to Chichibu meisen silk, renowned for its beauty and popularized nationwide from the Taisho to early Showa period (1912-1945) as fashionable attire for women. Textile work, including sericulture, employed about 70% of Chichibu's population during this period, establishing it as the region's primary industry. In the charming old highway town of Ogano is the over 100-year-old Suzaki Ryokan, which offers a kimono dressing experience to let visitors partake in this cherished tradition.

Nestled among mountains and rivers, Chichibu is a natural wonderland just a 90 minute train ride from central Tokyo.Our expert guides, who are passionate about and love the Chichibu area, will take you on a journey where you will discover the town's beloved attractions, hidden alleys, and recommended eateries and stores. Chichibu's seasonal charms vary so much that you will want to return in every different season. As a former center for silk production, Chichibu boasts an abundance of historical buildings that served as homes and workplaces for wealthy silk merchants.

The Chichibu Night Festival boasts a rich history spanning approximately 300 years. It is renowned as one of Japan's three major float festivals and earned its place on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2017. Why not immerse yourself in the allure of this historic festival? At its heart are six splendid floats, with the float-pulling experience being the most cherished aspect. This unique opportunity allows you to join hands with locals in moving the exquisite floats, dating back to the 1700s, creating unforgettable memories. Knowledgeable guides are available to share fascinating tales about the Chichibu region and the Chichibu Night Festival in multiple languages. Discover the festival's stories that resonate in every nook and cranny of this vibrant community, gaining insight into the profound connection between Chichibu's residents and the festival. Furthermore, you can enhance your festival experience by delving into the background of how the people of Chichibu have coexisted harmoniously with this grand tradition. As an added bonus, you'll receive original tenugui (hand towels) and work gloves as souvenirs during the float-pulling activity. Day's Itinerary (1) Guided tour of Chichibu and explanation of the Chichibu Night Festival (30 mins) (2) Tour and guide of Chichibu Shrine (10 mins) (3) Float pulling experience (120 mins) The event will be held on December 2, 2024 (Mon)

Chichibu Whisky Premium Tour : Experience the essence of Chichibu Whisky and traditional culture on a 2-night, 3-day journey! Start your adventure with an overnight stay in an Old Folk-House Hotel, a beautiful example of traditional Japanese architecture. Explore the exclusive "Venture Whisky Chichibu Distillery," not open to the public. Engage in a unique activity crafting coasters from Whisky barrel materials, surrounded by the nature of Chichibu. Enjoy nature beside a campfire and on boats with warm blanketed kotatsu-tables. The tour ends with a Chichibu bar-hop, where you can savor Chichibu Whisky in local bars and fully immerse yourself in the rich culture of Japanese Whisky.

Indulge in a luxurious ""Chichibu Bar Hopping Tour"" aboard a special train. The program is rich with experiences, starting with a private reservation of the ""Fifty Two Seats of Happiness Express,"" a sightseeing restaurant train where you'll enjoy a special lunch paired with premium Japanese whiskey ""Ichiro's Malt,"" meticulously curated by the chef. Following this, an exclusive tour awaits at the typically restricted ""Venture Whisky Chichibu Distillery."" Afterward, you can savor an overnight stay at a traditional Japanese architectural gem, the ""Old Folk House Hotel."" The journey concludes with a special Chichibu Bar Hopping experience, as you disembark from the train to relish Chichibu Whiskey at local bars to your heart's content.