Togo Park・Chichibu Ontake Shrine (Saitama Prefecture) Complete Guide｜Famous Autumn Foliage Spot and Sacred Ground Associated with Admiral Togo
Togo Park and Chichibu Ontake Shrine, located in the mountainous area of Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture, is known not only as a famous autumn foliage destination but also attracts many worshippers and tourists as a sacred site of Ontake faith and a place associated with Admiral Heihachiro Togo. This article provides a detailed introduction to this hidden gem of Oku-Musashi, covering everything from its history to highlights and access information.
Chichibu Ontake Shrine｜A Sacred Site Enshrining the Divided Spirit of Kiso Ontake Mountain Faith
Chichibu Ontake Shrine is a shrine dedicated to Ontake faith that venerates Kiso Ontake Mountain in Shinano as its main shrine and enshrines its divided spirit. The main shrine is situated at the summit of Ontake Mountain (approximately 350 meters above sea level) in the northern part of Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture, and is affectionately known locally as “Ontake-san.”
History of the Shrine’s Founding and Its Founder Seihachi Kamoshita
The founding of Chichibu Ontake Shrine dates back to the 28th year of Meiji (1895). The founder, Seihachi Kamoshita, became a mountain ascetic at Kiso Ontake Mountain to cure his mother’s illness. After years of ascetic practice, Kamoshita felt gratitude for his mother’s recovery and, desiring to spread the divine virtues of the gods to many others, invited the divided spirit of Ontake Mountain to this location.
Kamoshita devoted the rest of his life to improving the mountain slopes and laid the foundation for what is now Togo Park. The grounds span fifteen thousand tsubo (approximately 50,000 square meters), with Togo Park serving as the sacred garden.
Ontake Faith
Ontake faith is a mountain religion that reveres Kiso Ontake Mountain as a sacred mountain. Since ancient times, it has been connected with Shugendo (mountain ascetic practice) and is believed to provide benefits such as healing from illness, abundant harvests, and family safety. Chichibu Ontake Shrine follows this tradition of faith, and many believers visit to worship.
The Origin of Togo Park｜Deep Connection with Admiral Heihachiro Togo
Togo Park, the sacred garden of Chichibu Ontake Shrine, was named after Admiral Heihachiro Togo, known as a hero of the Russo-Japanese War.
“Nelson of the East” Admiral Heihachiro Togo
Heihachiro Togo (1848-1934) was a naval admiral during the Meiji and Taisho periods who achieved a great victory as commander-in-chief of the Combined Fleet at the Battle of the Japan Sea during the Russo-Japanese War. Due to his achievements, he was called the “Nelson of the East” and received high acclaim both domestically and internationally.
Construction of Admiral Togo’s Bronze Statue
A bronze statue of Admiral Heihachiro Togo was erected within the park, which became the origin of the name Togo Park. Founder Seihachi Kamoshita held deep respect and admiration for Admiral Togo, and the statue was erected at this location to honor the admiral’s great achievements.
The statue has become a central attraction of the park, allowing visitors to recall the admiral’s accomplishments while enjoying the surrounding natural beauty.
Oku-Musashi’s Premier Autumn Foliage Spot｜Spectacular Views Woven by Approximately 1000 Trees
Togo Park is widely recognized as one of the most renowned autumn foliage destinations in Saitama Prefecture. When autumn arrives, approximately 1000 maple and Japanese maple trees planted throughout the park turn red and yellow, transforming the entire mountain into a landscape like a brocade picture.
Best Viewing Period for Autumn Foliage
The best time to view autumn foliage at Togo Park is typically from mid-November to early December. Due to the elevation difference across the vast grounds, the timing of color change varies by location, allowing visitors to enjoy the autumn foliage over an extended period.
The grounds, which utilize the mountain slope, present different appearances depending on the viewing angle and location due to the elevation change. Particularly on clear days, the contrast between the blue sky and the autumn foliage is beautiful, making it an ideal photography spot.
Togo Park Maple Festival
The “Togo Park Maple Festival” is held annually in November, attracting many tourists from within and outside the prefecture. During the period, special events and sales of local specialties are held, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the autumn tradition alongside autumn foliage viewing.
During the maple festival, parking lots are expected to be congested, so the use of public transportation or early morning visits are recommended.
Highlights of the Grounds｜A Space Where Nature and History Blend
Togo Park and Chichibu Ontake Shrine offer many attractions beyond autumn foliage.
Main Shrine and Worship Hall
The main shrine, situated at the summit, is a sacred place enshrining the divided spirit of Kiso Ontake Mountain. From the worship hall located at the end of the approach, a magnificent view opens up, offering a panoramic view of Hanno City and the Oku-Musashi mountains.
The grounds are wrapped in silence, providing a space where one can forget the hustle and bustle of urban areas and worship with a quiet mind.
Approach Path and Stone Steps
A natural approach path continues from the park entrance to the main shrine. While climbing the stone steps, visitors can experience nature through the seasons, and particularly during the new green season or autumn foliage, a walk that feels spiritually cleansing can be experienced.
Along the approach path, stone monuments and lanterns are placed, creating an atmosphere of historical significance.
Area Around Admiral Togo’s Bronze Statue
The area where Admiral Heihachiro Togo’s bronze statue stands is located in the center of the park, with benches and rest areas arranged nearby. During the foliage season, the colored trees surrounding the statue create beautiful scenery and become a popular spot for commemorative photographs.
Sacred Garden Walking Trails
The vast sacred garden has several walking trails where visitors can leisurely enjoy nature. From the trails, one can observe different plants and birds depending on the season, making it an attractive spot for nature enthusiasts as well.
Access Information｜How to Get There by Car or Train
Here is information on how to access Togo Park and Chichibu Ontake Shrine.
Access by Train
When Using Seibu Ikebukuro Line:
- Get off at Seibu Ikebukuro Line “Agano Station,” then walk approximately 17 minutes northwest
- The route from the station to the shrine involves a gentle uphill, but the natural scenery along the way can be enjoyed while walking
Walking access is recommended for those with confidence in their physical fitness or those who want to enjoy a leisurely stroll. We recommend visiting with comfortable walking shoes.
Access by Car
Via Kan-Etsu Expressway:
- Approximately 30 minutes from “Hanno-Hidaka IC” on the Kan-Etsu Expressway via National Route 299
Via Showa Expressway:
- Approximately 35 minutes from “Sayama-Hidaka IC” on the Showa Expressway via National Route 299
A parking lot with capacity for approximately 100 vehicles is equipped and is free to use during normal times. However, congestion is expected during the autumn foliage season and maple festival period, so please plan to arrive early.
GPS Navigation Settings
Address: 580 Sakashita, Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture
Phone: 042-978-0072 (Shrine Office) / 042-978-1717 (Shrine)
Basic Information｜Hours, Admission Fee, and Inquiries
Operating Hours
- Park: Always open (24 hours accessible)
- Shrine Office: 8:00 AM～5:00 PM
Admission Fee
- Admission: Free (open year-round)
Contact Information
- Shrine Office: 042-978-0072
- Shrine: 042-978-1717
- Official Website: http://www.togo-koen.jp/
Facility Information
- Parking: Approximately 100 spaces (free)
- Restrooms: Multiple locations within the grounds
- Rest Areas: Available
Recommended Nearby Spots｜Tourist Attractions in the Hanno Area
When visiting Togo Park and Chichibu Ontake Shrine, you can create a more fulfilling travel experience by also touring nearby tourist attractions.
Naguri Onsen
The Naguri district of Hanno City has day-use hot spring facilities and hot spring inns. After walking and exploring Togo Park, it is also recommended to refresh yourself at Naguri Onsen. Nearby inns offer kaiseki cuisine, allowing you to enjoy a luxurious time.
Tove Jansson Akebono Children’s Forest Park
This is a park that recreates the world of Moomin and is a popular spot with families. It is approximately 30 minutes by car from Togo Park.
Tenran Mountain and Takone Mountain
These are symbolic mountains of Hanno City and are popular hiking courses. The views from the summit are wonderful and are recommended for those who want to enjoy experiential tourism.
Hanno Riverbed
The riverbed along the Naguri River offers barbecue and river play. During summer, it is crowded with many families.
Four Seasons of Charm｜Enjoyable During Seasons Other Than Autumn Foliage
Togo Park and Chichibu Ontake Shrine are famous as an autumn foliage destination, but there is value in visiting during other seasons as well.
Spring’s Fresh Greenery
From April to May, the trees throughout the grounds bud simultaneously, enveloped in vivid fresh green. The contrast between young leaves and blue sky is beautiful, and visitors can enjoy worshipping and strolling in a refreshing atmosphere.
Summer’s Deep Green
In summer, the area is covered in deep green, with cool shade, making it ideal as a summer retreat. The temperature is lower than in urban areas, allowing visitors to enjoy coolness in nature.
Winter’s Silence
In winter, there are fewer visitors, and the grounds are wrapped in silence, allowing for peaceful worship with a quiet mind. On snowy days, a silver-white world unfolds, offering a fantastical landscape.
Worship Etiquette and Precautions
Proper Worship Procedure
As Chichibu Ontake Shrine is a sacred site of Ontake faith, general Shinto shrine worship procedures should be followed.
- Bow once before passing through the torii gate
- Purify hands and mouth at the water ablution basin
- Perform two bows, two claps, and one bow at the worship hall
Dress and Belongings
- Wear comfortable shoes as the approach has stone steps
- Bring a jacket as temperatures drop during the foliage season
- It is recommended to bring beverages for hydration
Photography
Photography within the grounds is generally permitted, but please be considerate of other worshippers. Some areas, such as inside the main shrine, are off-limits for photography, so please follow posted signs.
Summary of the Charm of Togo Park and Chichibu Ontake Shrine
Togo Park and Chichibu Ontake Shrine is loved by many people as a sacred site embraced by the nature of Oku-Musashi and as a famous autumn foliage destination. It is a leading tourist attraction in Saitama Prefecture, combining the history of Ontake faith, its connection with Admiral Heihachiro Togo, and the natural beauty of each season.
Access from the metropolitan area is relatively good, making day trips possible. Not only during the foliage season but also during the new green season and quiet winter, you can discover different charms for each season.
Worshipping with a quiet mind, touching the beauty of nature, and reflecting on history—would you not like to spend such a luxurious time at Togo Park and Chichibu Ontake Shrine? A wonderful experience and memorable scenery await you at this hidden gem in Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture.
