Chichibu & Arakawa Boat Ride & Fruit Picking & Outlet Shopping

Just a stone’s throw from Tokyo, Chichibu offers a world of wonders waiting to be explored. From tranquil river cruises and fruit-filled orchards to bustling outlet malls, this charming region promises an unforgettable escape. Enjoy the natural beauty, savor local delicacies, and uncover a treasure trove of shopping delights. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Chichibu has something to captivate every traveler’s heart. Discover the secrets that this picturesque destination holds, and let the journey unfold before you.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Tokyo.

Key Points

• A day trip blending cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and shopping opportunities in the picturesque Chichibu region northwest of Tokyo.
• Serene boat ride along the scenic Arakawa River with views of the dramatic landscape and towering Mount Buko.
• Fruit picking experience in local orchards, allowing visitors to savor fresh, seasonal produce straight from the source.
• Delectable regional lunch featuring local Japanese cuisine and seasonal ingredients to recharge and rejuvenate.
• Outlet mall shopping excursion offering deep discounts on fashion, electronics, home goods, and more.

Overview of the Activity

This full-day excursion offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and shopping opportunities in the scenic Chichibu and Arakawa regions near Tokyo.

The day begins with a scenic river cruise along the Arakawa River, providing a tranquil introduction to the region’s natural beauty. Guests then enjoy fruit picking, with the chance to indulge in all-you-can-eat fresh, seasonal produce.

After a delicious lunch, the group heads to a popular outlet mall, where they can browse for bargains and souvenirs. Throughout the day, an English-speaking guide offers insights and commentary, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.

With convenient round-trip transfers, this activity is an excellent way to explore the highlights of this picturesque area outside the bustling capital.

Exploring Chichibu

Chichibu is a picturesque region nestled in the mountainous landscape northwest of Tokyo, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

The area boasts verdant forests, babbling brooks, and majestic peaks that captivate visitors.

One of the highlights is the Arakawa River, which winds through the dramatic landscape, offering visitors a serene boat ride to soak in the breathtaking scenery.

Plus, Chichibu is famous for its prolific fruit orchards, where guests can indulge in the joy of picking and tasting fresh, seasonal produce.

From the river cruise to the fruit picking experience, Chichibu provides a rejuvenating escape from the bustling city, inviting travelers to enjoy the region’s natural splendor.

Arakawa River Boat Ride

Gliding along the serene Arakawa River offers visitors a tranquil respite from the bustling city, as they soak in the region’s stunning natural beauty.

The leisurely boat ride takes guests through picturesque landscapes, with lush forests and rugged cliffs lining the riverbanks.

As the boat navigates the gentle currents, passengers can admire the towering Mount Buko in the distance, a prominent landmark that adds to the area’s breathtaking scenery.

This serene experience allows travelers to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life, seeing the peaceful ambiance of the Arakawa River.

It’s a delightful way to explore the natural wonders of the Chichibu region.

Fruit Picking Experience

After the serene boat ride along the Arakawa River, the tour shifts gears to a delightful fruit picking experience. Guests can look forward to indulging in a variety of fresh, locally grown produce, savoring the sweet flavors straight from the source.

Fruit	Description	Season
Apples	Crisp, juicy, and flavorful	Fall
Strawberries	Plump, fragrant, and vibrant	Spring
Grapes	Bursting with juicy goodness	Late Summer

The fruit picking activity allows visitors to enjoy the agricultural traditions of the region, connecting with the land and appreciating the care and effort that goes into cultivating these delectable treats.

Lunch and Refreshments

Following the fruit picking activity, guests indulge in a delectable lunch, savoring regional specialties and refreshing beverages.

The meal is served at a nearby restaurant, providing a chance to recharge and rejuvenate before the next segment of the tour. The menu features local Japanese cuisine, showcasing the flavors of the Chichibu region. Guests can expect dishes like soba noodles, miso soup, and grilled meats or seafood, all prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Complementing the meal are thirst-quenching drinks, including green tea, juices, and water. This midday respite allows participants to refuel and prepare for the upcoming boat ride and outlet shopping excursion, ensuring a well-rounded and enjoyable experience.

Outlet Shopping Excursion

The tour then takes guests to a renowned outlet mall, where they can indulge in a shopping spree and hunt for bargains on a variety of products.

The outlet mall features:

• Numerous name-brand stores offering deep discounts
• A wide selection of fashion, electronics, home goods, and more
• Ample space for browsing and exploring
• Convenient layout with easy access to all the shops

Visitors can spend their time freely exploring the mall, taking advantage of the incredible savings on offer. Whether it’s a new wardrobe, the latest tech gadgets, or household essentials, the outlet mall provides an excellent opportunity to stock up on must-have items at unbeatable prices.

Transfers and Logistics

The tour includes round-trip transfers from the hotel to the meeting point, providing a convenient and hassle-free transportation experience for participants. The pickup and drop-off location is the Robert Indiana Sculpture: LOVE, located in the heart of Shinjuku. The tour starts at 8:15 am, ensuring an early start to make the most of the day’s activities. The guide, fluent in English, accompanies the group throughout the journey, offering insights and assistance as needed.

Meeting Point	Start Time	Duration	Pickup/Drop-off	Transportation
Robert Indiana Sculpture: LOVE	8:15 am	Full day	Hotel	Air-conditioned bus

Inclusions and Additional Info

This full-day tour includes an array of engaging activities and conveniences to enhance the experience. Participants can enjoy fruit picking with an all-you-can-eat experience, a relaxing river cruise on the Arakawa River in Nagatoro, and lunch, all while being transported by an air-conditioned bus and accompanied by an English-speaking guide.

Not wheelchair accessible, but near public transportation.

Infants must sit on laps, and must be at least 6 months old and 60cm / 2ft tall to join.

Maximum of 38 travelers per tour.

Nonrefundable and can’t be changed, though tours may be canceled due to weather or low enrollment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants generally cannot bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a lunch and a fruit picking experience where visitors can eat as much as they’d like, so bringing outside food is typically not permitted.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

Yes, there are discounts available for children and seniors on this tour. Children under a certain age may be eligible for a reduced fare, while seniors can often receive a discounted price as well. Customers should inquire about specific pricing when booking.

Can I Opt Out of Any Activities and Get a Refund?

Unfortunately, this tour does not offer any refunds or ability to opt out of activities. The package deal is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. All inclusions must be experienced as part of the full-day excursion.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Needs Accommodations?

The tour operator can accommodate dietary restrictions and special needs, but travelers should inform them in advance. Lunch is provided, so specific dietary requirements can be catered for with prior notice.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The tour is non-refundable and can’t be changed. However, if it’s canceled due to poor weather or lack of participants, guests will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Recap

This excursion to Chichibu offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, culture, and retail therapy.

Visitors can enjoy a serene boat ride, indulge in seasonal fruit picking, and savor local cuisine.

Visitors can also discover bargains at a renowned outlet mall.

It’s the perfect way to escape the city and take in the rich heritage and picturesque landscapes of this captivating region northwest of Tokyo.