Saitama Prefecture, home to the nostalgic castle town "Little Edo" Kawagoe and scenic Chichibu, has nurtured a rich heritage of trade and gastronomy. This model course begins with historic "Kawagoe Unagi" (grilled eel). Walk along the dramatic stone layers of Nagatoro Gorge, then check into "Chichibu Onsen Hananoya", an elite ryokan where every room features a private open-air bath. Dinner showcases dynamic local mountain game (boar and venison) Kaiseki. The next day, visit the mystical Mitsumine Shrine and feast on traditional "Musashino Udon".
Day 1: Little Edo's Famous Grilled Eel and an Elite All-Private-Bath Ryokan
Begin at Omiya Station. Retrieve your rental car and head to the historical "Ichinoya" in Kawagoe, operating since 1832. Taste legendary grilled eel prepared using a secret steaming and grilling technique that yields an exceptionally fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Afterward, drive to the scenic "Nagatoro Iwadatami Gorge". Stroll along the massive natural crystalline schist rock terraces lining the Arakawa River.
In the afternoon, check into "Chichibu Onsen Hananoya" nestled in a serene forest. Unwind in your suite's private outdoor hot spring bath. Dinner features their flagship Chichibu Kaiseki course, highlighting tender local boar or venison hotpot and sweet seasonal vegetables harvested from nearby mountains.
Day 2: The Spiritual Mountain Sanctuary and Gunma-border Chewy Udon
Wake up early to drive up to the grand "Mitsumine Shrine", a famous ancient sanctuary standing 1,100 meters above sea level. Walk beneath the majestic cypress trees and historic colorful shrine gates often wrapped in mysterious mountain mists.
Return toward Omiya for lunch at the legendary "Fujidana Udon". Feast on authentic "Musashino Udon"—exceptionally thick, chewy wheat noodles served with a hot, savory dipping broth loaded with sweet leeks and tender pork belly. Wrap up your amazing escape at Omiya Station.