Japanese paper learning center

Ranzan Valley is one of the famous scenic spot in Saitama prefecture known for its Iwadatami rock terraces, clear stream of the Tsukikawa River, and a rich natural environment. Especially in the area called Hosohara, which extends from Mt. Ohira, the river channel is large and turns 180 degrees, creating a unique peninsula-like terrain. You can see the beautiful scenery of the valley and the surrounding red pine forest. The beautiful scenery of the valley is very similar to Arashiyama in Kyoto so that when Dr. Seiroku Honda, the first person in Japan to hold a Ph.D. of forestry, visited and said, "This is “Arashiyama of Musashi no kuni.”  From the fact that he muttered at the time, it is the origin of the name of the town “Ranzan-machi” which is another way to pronounce the kanji-signs for Arashiyama.   In the early summer, you can enjoy the scenery that you wouldn’t believe it's just an hour away from the centre of the city with fresh greenery, the sound of the river flowing, and the birds chirping. In autumn, please enjoy the colours reflected on the surface of the water and the fiery red maple trees. *Best time to see the autumn leaves: Mid-November to early December

The Sennen no Sono Lavender Field spans approximately 6.5 hectares and boasts around 22,000 lavender plants, including more than 10 different varieties such as Grosso, Hidcote, and Avonview (16 types in 2023). In late May, visitors can enjoy the enchanting sight of red, pink, and white poppies blooming alongside early-blooming lavender. By mid-June, a portion of the field transforms into a golden sea of wheat known as "Nourin 61." Towards the end of June, visitors can witness the spectacle of wheat harvesting. The annual Ranzan Lavender Festival takes place from early to late June, offering a wonderful opportunity to experience the beauty of the lavender field. *Please note that access to the fields is restricted after the festival as they undergo harvesting.

From handcrafting Japanese paper to seasonal experiences and workshops related to the Japanese paper, hand-making soba and udon, purchasing specialty goods of Japanese paper and agricultural products. There is also a plentiful food court full of the local village cuisine such as the salted grilled char and oyaki. Furthermore, there is a paper-making house with a thatched roof inside the Japanese garden, which makes you feel like you’ve gone back in time to the Edo period. The area is designed to allow for a relaxing time.

This is a day trip hot spring facility that was built by relocating an ancient house. Located close to the Tokigawa River, if you soak in the footbath on the engawa (Japanese-style terrace), you will be able to clearly hear the calming sound of the small stream. There is an area for BBQ nearby, and you can enjoy it without any equipment. After the BBQ, heal, recharge, and wash off your sweat in the hot spring.

This is a facility made in 2006 for “farmers” x “merchants” as a base for revitalizing the area. The line-up consists of fresh vegetables and locally produced processed foods. If you plan on using the “Kawa-no-Hiroba Barbecue (River Square Barbecue Area)”, please contact us in advance. We await you alongside our mascot character, “Norabitan” which is based on the town’s local delicacy: “Norabō-na (Norabō greens)” and “Ao-Nasu (Blue eggplant)”.