Chugendaira Park Observation Deck

The dam constructed on the Arakawa River in Yorii Town is called the "Tamayodo Dam," and the artificial lake created by the Tamayodo Dam is known as “Lake Tamayodo (Tamayodoko).” Visitors can enjoy activities such as canoeing and rafting on this peaceful lake known for its highly transparent water and surrounded by forest. It is also a famous spot for autumn leaves in Yorii Town.

Hachigata Castle is a quintessential castle from the Warring States period and was selected as one of the 100 famous castles of Japan. The castle is said to have been built in 1476 by Nagao Kageharu, a retainer of the Yamanouchi Uesugi clan and leader of the Kanto region, and the castle was later expanded to its current size by the Odawara clan. When the feudal lord Toyotomi Hideyoshi attacked and besieged the castle in 1590, the soldiers inside held out for one month before giving up, surrendering the castle in exchange for their lives. The castle was later demolished and abandoned, but you can still see a large number of ruins that remain largely undisturbed, reminding us of the strong fortress of the past.

The Edohigan Sakura tree located in Hachigata Castle Park is a natural town monument. This cherry blossom tree is estimated to be over 150 years old, and flowers bloom beautifully on its umbrella-shaped canopy of branches every year around the end of March. You can also enjoy the evening illuminated cherry blossoms during peak season!

The Arakawa Line downstream boating in Chichibu Nagatoro allows you to ride upon the beautifully layered stone riverbed, which is designated as a national natural monument. It is a relaxing course with a couple of thrills along the way, but perfectly safe for children and seniors to enjoy as well. While listening to the boatman's entertaining speech, you can enjoy the cherry blossoms in the spring, the cool breeze in the summer, the beautiful colors of autumn, and the warmth of the kotatsu (heated table) boat in the winter. In other words, a perfect outdoor activity regardless of the season!

Presenting the theme, "From the past to the future: traveling 300 million years through Saitama's history of people's coexistence with nature," Saitama Museum of Natural History stores various resources related to nature, and displays the fossils of giant shark, “Megalodon," and mysterious sea animal, “Paleoparadoxia," discovered in Saitama Prefecture. The museum is constructed into two halls: the "Geology Exhibition," where visitors can learn about various fossils, rocks and minerals, geological strata and earth formations, and the "Biology Exhibition," featuring large dioramas of the four major forests of Saitama and the animals that live in them. Nagatoro area is a perfect example of the nature in Saitama, and here you can enjoy detailed explanations of its characteristics for a deeper understanding. You can also enjoy simulations and free audio guides. (For more information regarding the facility, please refer to the URL below.)