![[Misotsuchi Icicles] A fantastic winter scene! Ice art in Saitama](https://cdn.jeepe.jp/uploads/public_image/image/1975/normal_a712ab97-ddc4-4d68-a086-b57cb99470c5.jpg "[Misotsuchi Icicles] A fantastic winter scene! Ice art in Saitama")
What is Misotsuchi no Tsurara?
Misotsuchi no Tsurara are spectacular winter icicles located upstream of the Arakawa River in Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture.
Famous as a natural ice art, large icicles form along the riverbank from January to February, when the cold becomes severe.
Sometimes, you'll even find ice walls as tall as 10 meters and as wide as 50 meters!
Additionally, at night, the icicles are illuminated, offering a different, mystical scenery to enjoy.
It's a popular winter travel destination because it's accessible for a day trip from the Kanto region!
The Charm of Misotsuchi no Tsurara
1. Natural Ice Art
The icicles are formed as spring water from the Arakawa River freezes in the winter cold and gradually grows.
These are not artificially made; the natural ice curtains are breathtakingly beautiful!
- The transparency and bluish-white glow of the ice create a scene from another world.
- The shape of the icicles changes every year, offering new discoveries with each visit.
2. Enchanting Light-Up
The night-time light-up event bathes the icicles in colorful lights, creating a magical atmosphere.
Lights in blue, pink, and purple reflect on the ice, presenting a different beauty from the daytime.
The light-up is held annually, but as it's limited to a specific period, it's best to check in advance.
- Light-up period: Typically mid-January to mid-February
- Light-up hours: 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM (subject to change depending on weather conditions)
3. More than Just Icicles! Plenty of Nearby Attractions
When visiting Misotsuchi no Tsurara, it's recommended to enjoy the surrounding attractions as well!
① Chichibu's Three Great Icicles Tour
Apart from Misotsuchi, Onouchi Hyakkei Icicles (Ogano Town) and Ashigakubo Icicles (Yokoze Town) are also famous.
Known as the "Chichibu Three Great Icicles," they're a special spot only enjoyable in the winter.
② Mitsumine Shrine
A shrine famed as a power spot in Chichibu.
Located at an altitude of 1,100 meters, it exudes a mystical atmosphere.
③ Chichibu Onsen
To warm up a chilled body, Chichibu Onsen is recommended.
Particularly "Mangan no Yu" and "Hoshizora no Yu" are hot springs surrounded by beautiful nature, perfect for relaxation.
Access to Misotsuchi no Tsurara
Access by Train and Bus
- Tokyo Station → Seibu Chichibu Station (Seibu Limited Express about 1 hour 20 minutes)
- Seibu Chichibu Station → Mitsumineguchi Station (Chichibu Railway about 40 minutes)
- Mitsumineguchi Station → Tsurara Entrance (Seibu Kanko Bus about 20 minutes)
- Arrive with a 10-minute walk from the Tsurara Entrance bus stop
Access by Car
- About 1 hour 30 minutes from Kan-Etsu Expressway "Hanazono IC"
- Free parking available (arrive early during winter as it gets crowded)
Useful Information for Travelers
Recommended Attire
The area around Misotsuchi no Tsurara is very cold, so warm clothing is essential!
- Thick coats or down jackets
- Gloves, scarves, knitted hats
- Non-slip shoes (as you may walk on ice, shoes with grips are best)
Admission Fees
- Daytime Viewing: Free
- Light-Up Viewing: 300 yen (as a maintenance cooperation fee)
Wi-Fi Information
- There's little free Wi-Fi in the area, so downloading maps in advance is recommended
Language Support
- Tourist brochures available in English, Chinese, and Korean
- There may be English-speaking staff at the tourist information center
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
Summary
Misotsuchi no Tsurara is a representative winter scenic spot of Chichibu, Saitama.
During the day, enjoy the natural ice art, and at night, immerse yourself in a fantastical world with the light-up.
Alongside Chichibu sightseeing, savor the mysterious scenery unique to winter!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can you see the icicles every year?
A: The bigger they grow, the colder the year. However, in warmer years, they may be smaller. Check official information!
Q: What’s the best time to visit?
A: Both daytime, under the blue sky, and night-time with the light-up offer different atmospheres, so both are recommended!
Q: Can small children visit?
A: While paths are maintained, they can be slippery. Ensure proper cold-weather gear and caution.
Q: Are there places to eat nearby?
A: There are eateries offering Chichibu specialties like "Waraji Katsudon" and "Miso Potato". The area around Chichibu Station also has plenty of gourmet spots!
Enjoy a magical winter experience at Misotsuchi no Tsurara!
