Hello, this is _hiroyuki.ta. This time, I went on a touring trip to Lake Chichibu from central Tokyo on a Harley Sports Glide (FLSB). We’ll introduce you to Lake Chichibu in detail, how to get there, what to see, where to park your bike, etc.
What is Lake Chichibu?
Lake Chichibu is an artificial lake located in Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture. The lake was created by Futase Dam, which was built at the uppermost reaches of the Arakawa River, and was named “Lake Chichibu” by Her Imperial Highness Princess Chichibu in 1962. It is designated as Chichibu-Tama Kai National Park, where you can enjoy beautiful natural scenery and seasonal scenery.
Route to Lake Chichibu
The route to Lake Chichibu is as follows.
- From central Tokyo, take the Shuto Expressway and exit onto National Route 4.
- Go north on National Route 4 and enter National Route 16 at Kasukabe City.
- Go west on National Route 16 and enter National Route 299 at Sakado City.
- Go north on National Route 299 and enter National Route 140 at Chichibu City.
- Go west on National Route 140 and arrive at Lake Chichibu in the Otaki area.
This route covers approximately 120km and takes approximately two and a half hours. Along the way, there are many mountain passes and curves on National Routes 299 and 140, and the scenery is spectacular, making it a fun road for bikers. However, please be aware that there may be snow or ice in the winter.
Highlights of Lake Chichibu
Lake Chichibu has the following highlights.
- Futase Dam: This is the dam that created Lake Chichibu, and is a gravity arch dam with a height of 95m. From the top of the dam, you can see Lake Chichibu and the surrounding mountains.
- Chichibu Fisheries Cooperative: You can enjoy fishing for carp and smelt at Lake Chichibu. This fishing cooperative rents out fishing spots and boats, so even beginners can easily go fishing.
- Mitsumine Shrine: This shrine is located about 7km from Lake Chichibu. It has been worshiped since ancient times, and the guardian wolf, not the guardian dog, is enshrined there. From the precincts, you can see the mountains of Okuchichibu.
- Nakatsu Gorge: A valley located approximately 7 km from Lake Chichibu. It is hailed as one of the most beautiful views in Okuchichibu, and is especially spectacular during the fall foliage season.
Lake Chichibu motorcycle parking lot
There are the following motorcycle parking lots around Lake Chichibu.
- Roadside Station Otaki Onsen Gorokan: This roadside station is located southeast of Lake Chichibu. Free bike parking is available. You can also buy souvenirs and meals.
- Lake Chichibu parking lot: This is the parking lot located northwest of Lake Chichibu. Both motorcycles and regular cars can be parked for free. Great view of Lake Chichibu.
- Mitsumine Shrine Parking Lot: This is a parking lot near Mitsumine Shrine. There is a fee, but you can park your bike for 100 yen. Convenient access to the shrine.
summary
This time, I went on a touring trip to Lake Chichibu from central Tokyo on a Harley Sports Glide (FLSB). Lake Chichibu is a man-made lake rich in nature, where you can enjoy leisure activities such as fishing and boating. There are also attractions in the area such as Futase Dam and Mitsumine Shrine. There are several motorcycle parking lots, so you can visit with peace of mind. Lake Chichibu is a particularly recommended touring spot in Saitama Prefecture. Please give it a try by bike.
秩父湖（英語）：Chichibu Lake
