Chichibu district

Chichibu district is an administrative region in western Saitama that encompasses five municipalities with diverse landscapes. The area features forested mountains, river valleys, and scattered communities connected by local roads and rail lines.

The district gained historical importance in 708 when copper deposits were discovered, prompting the launch of Japan's first era name and early coinage. This mining activity shaped the region's economy and connected it to the broader Japanese state.

The Chichibu shrine serves as a spiritual gathering place where visitors encounter traditional religious practices woven into everyday community life. The seasonal celebrations and local customs shape how residents connect with their surroundings throughout the year.

The region is primarily rural and requires a car or local buses to travel between settlements. Visitors should plan extra time for navigation, as municipalities are spread across mountainous terrain with winding roads.

In 1884 a major peasant uprising took place here, one of the most significant revolts during that period in Japanese history. The event deeply affected local communities and shaped their future trajectory.

Location: Saitama Prefecture

Inception: March 17, 1879

GPS coordinates: 36.02361,139.01500

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:03