Seibu Chichibu Station

Seibu Chichibu Station serves as the western gateway to the Chichibu region in Saitama Prefecture, positioned approximately 70 kilometers northwest of central Tokyo. Opened in 1969 as the terminus of the Seibu Chichibu Line, the station marked a significant expansion of rail access to this mountainous area, transforming what was once a remote pilgrimage destination into an accessible getaway for urban residents. The station building itself underwent major renovation in 2017, adopting a modern design that incorporates local timber and stone to reflect the natural character of the surrounding landscape.

The station functions as the primary access point for exploring Chichibu's rich cultural heritage and natural attractions. Within walking distance lies Chichibu Shrine, one of the region's most important Shinto sites dating back over 2,100 years, famous for its intricate carvings and the annual Chichibu Night Festival held every December, recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event. The station also provides convenient access to the Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park, where visitors can explore hiking trails, limestone caves, and the scenic Arakawa River valley. The area is particularly renowned for its spring shibazakura (moss phlox) displays at nearby Hitsujiyama Park and autumn foliage throughout the mountain valleys.

Inside the station complex, travelers will find a tourist information center offering maps and guidance in multiple languages, along with a compact shopping area featuring local products including Chichibu whisky, miso, and traditional textiles. The station forecourt includes a footbath facility using local hot spring water, allowing visitors to relax immediately upon arrival. Several restaurants serve regional specialties such as walnut soba and miso potato, highlighting the area's agricultural traditions.

From Ikebukuro Station in Tokyo, the Seibu Limited Express Red Arrow provides direct service to Seibu Chichibu in approximately 78 minutes, with reserved seating requiring an additional express fee of around ¥710 beyond the base fare of approximately ¥790. Regular express trains without reserved seating take roughly 90 minutes. The station has no admission fee as it is a functioning railway terminal, though individual attractions in the area maintain their own pricing structures. Coin lockers are available in multiple sizes for storing luggage during day trips.