Chichibu Fudasho
A Spiritual Pilgrimage Route in Saitama
Explore Chichibu’s beautiful nature, ancient historical sites, and spiritual power spots along a route taken by travelers for centuries. Whether you are seeking a spiritual renewal or a quiet trek through the beauty of rural Saitama, close to Tokyo, the Chichibu Fudasho might be just what you’re looking for. The Chichibu Fudasho is a 100 kilometer long pilgrimage route connecting 34 of the area’s Kannon Buddhist temples, with a history dating back almost 800 years. The popularity of the route peaked in the Edo Period, when many of the city’s common folk traveled here to gain wisdom and clarity by participating in the pilgrimage.
A Path for Both Body and Soul
Today, people enjoy the Chichibu Fudasho not just for spiritual enlightenment but also for the health benefits of hiking and the pleasure of being outdoors. You can choose portions of the route to hike, cycle, or even travel between by car. Choose a section and make a day hike out of it, or pick a few favorite temples and cycle or drive between them; the choice is yours! As you travel, you’ll meet pilgrims dressed in traditional white garments and conical hats as well as casual hikers with brightly colored packs and aluminum hiking poles. Exchange a friendly “Konnichiwa!” as you pass them on the trail.
Each of the 34 temples is unique in both design and location. Some temples feature exquisitely carved panels and decorative features created by woodcarving master artisans from Japan’s past. Some hold treasures from Japan’s Buddhist history hidden in the depths of dimly lit main halls. Some temples require challenging hikes up steep stairs into the mountains.
You will travel from temple to temple, learning about Chichibu’s long and unique history while taking in the beautiful scenes of the Japanese countryside: golden rice paddies, forested mountain trails, and clear streams fed by mountain springs. You might even forget that you’re just a train ride away from central Tokyo!
Access to Chichibu Fudasho
You can reach Chichibu in Saitama from Ikebukuro Station using the Seibu Ikebukuro Line trains to Seibu-Chichibu Station. Consider the Limited Express Laview, a comfortable, futuristic train that whisks you from Ikebukuro to Chichibu in about an hour and 20 minutes. Several of the temples are walking distance from the station, the closest being No. 13, Jigen-ji Temple.
Contact
Tel: +81 494-22-4525
Business hours
08:00 - 17:00
MAP
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