Distinctive rock formations
The stretches of rock shaped like rows of tatami mats are a signature sight of the area.
Nagatoro Iwadatami
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What kind of place is Nagatoro Rock Beds?
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With riverside rock formations and striking gorge scenery, this is a great spot for nature walks and river cruises.
Nagatoro Rock Beds is a nationally designated Place of Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument along the Arakawa River. See the distinctive rock formations, divided into terrace-like slabs, and the Chichibu Red Cliffs across the river. It is an easy walk from Nagatoro Station, and you can combine a stroll with a river cruise or a visit to nearby sights.
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Top 3 Highlights
Add a river cruise
A boat trip offers a different perspective on the gorge and its scenery.
Easy to reach from the station
Just a short walk from Nagatoro Station, it is easy to include on a day trip.
Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes with good grip for walking by the river.
- River cruise schedules can vary by season and conditions, so check in advance.
- Removing rocks or plants is not permitted.
Suggested Route
Walk from Nagatoro Station to explore the rock beds, then take a river cruise if you have time.
Nagatoro is located in the Chichibu district of Saitama Prefecture and is particularly famous for the "Nagatoro Iwadatami," a popular tourist destination. The Iwadatami stretches along both banks of the Arakawa River and has been designated as a national scenic spot and natural monument. On the opposite bank, the "Chichibu Red Cliffs" rise majestically, allowing visitors to enjoy the beautiful contrast of nature.
The Nagatoro Iwadatami is part of a geological zone called the Sanbagawa belt and is characterized by "gneiss" and "jointing" formed from schist. This geological phenomenon occurred approximately 85 to 66 million years ago, revealing metamorphic rocks shaped by pressure and heat. The Iwadatami is also referred to as the "Window to the Earth," making it a valuable location to observe rock structures deep beneath the surface.
The surrounding area offers seasonal attractions, with activities such as rafting on the Arakawa River and enjoying natural shaved ice being particularly popular. The Arakawa has sections known as "Toro," where the water pools in a striking blue color, which is the origin of the name "Nagatoro." The Iwadatami itself displays a variety of faces throughout the seasons, with Yukiyanagi blooming in spring and Wisteria in summer.
Nagatoro Iwadatami is conveniently accessible, located just a short distance from Nagatoro Station on the Chichibu Line. Visitors can also partake in activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and rafting. Furthermore, the area was designated as a scenic spot and natural monument in 1924, and collecting rocks and plants is prohibited. The designated area extends from Obanohashi Bridge to Takasagobashi Bridge, where many people enjoy the beauty of nature.
The Nagatoro Iwadatami is part of a geological zone called the Sanbagawa belt and is characterized by "gneiss" and "jointing" formed from schist. This geological phenomenon occurred approximately 85 to 66 million years ago, revealing metamorphic rocks shaped by pressure and heat. The Iwadatami is also referred to as the "Window to the Earth," making it a valuable location to observe rock structures deep beneath the surface.
The surrounding area offers seasonal attractions, with activities such as rafting on the Arakawa River and enjoying natural shaved ice being particularly popular. The Arakawa has sections known as "Toro," where the water pools in a striking blue color, which is the origin of the name "Nagatoro." The Iwadatami itself displays a variety of faces throughout the seasons, with Yukiyanagi blooming in spring and Wisteria in summer.
Nagatoro Iwadatami is conveniently accessible, located just a short distance from Nagatoro Station on the Chichibu Line. Visitors can also partake in activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and rafting. Furthermore, the area was designated as a scenic spot and natural monument in 1924, and collecting rocks and plants is prohibited. The designated area extends from Obanohashi Bridge to Takasagobashi Bridge, where many people enjoy the beauty of nature.
Nagatoro Iwadatami Movies
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Basic Information
- Spot Name
- Nagatoro Iwadatami
- Location
- 〒369-1300 Nagatoro, Chichibu-gun, Saitama Prefecture
- Access
- About a 7-minute walk from Chichibu Railway Chichibu Line "Nagatoro Station."
- Parking
- None
- Business Hours
- Nagatoro Line River Cruise
9:00 AM to around 4:00 PM
*From March 10 to March 17 and from November 24 to December 4, the hours are 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
*Hours may be shortened depending on the situation. - Fees
- Nagatoro Line River Cruise Fee
Adults (middle school age and older): 2,000 yen
Children (3 years and older): 1,000 yen - Contact Information
- Phone Number：0494-66-3311
- Official Website
Map
Detailed Information
Nagatoro Iwadatami in Saitama Prefecture is a natural work of art, where a beautiful ravine and dramatic rock formations create a stunning landscape. Said to be the birthplace of Japanese geology, its distinctive terrain known as “Iwadatami” stretches out like a painting. Massive rocks of various shapes are surrounded by a river, and on the opposite bank rises a rock wall several tens of meters high called the “Chichibu Red Cliffs.”
The rocks of Iwadatami are crystalline schist, formed by being pushed up from deep underground. Spanning about 80 meters in width and 600 meters in length, their surface forms a square, tatami-like pattern. These rocks were created by global-scale crustal movements that occurred deep within the earth, and they are also described as a “window into the Earth.”
Nagatoro Iwadatami is a place where you can enjoy scenery that changes with the seasons: cherry blossoms in spring, river play in summer, colorful leaves in autumn, and snowy landscapes in winter. Throughout the year, it offers a variety of expressions. Here, you can feel nature up close while enjoying activities such as river rafting and canoe tours.
Especially popular is the “Nagatoro Line Kudari.” This is a sightseeing boat ride that takes you down the Arakawa River flowing through Nagatoro Gorge. There are three courses, each offering a different perspective on the beauty of nature. Along the way, you can see the massive Iwadatami, the steep Chichibu Red Cliffs, and even naturally formed bowl-shaped potholes—true works of natural sculpture.
The surrounding area is also rich in attractions such as Nagatoro Onsen and Nagatoro Shrine, and you can enjoy delicious dishes made with local ingredients. From peaceful strolls while feeling the breath of nature to active outdoor experiences, this is a spot where every visitor can enjoy it in their own way—a perfect place to fully appreciate Japan’s beautiful natural scenery.
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