RoadSaitama · Chichibu CityVOL.0 · 2026-W43
Prefectural Route 210 through Nakatsu Gorge
Start at the foot of Takizawa Dam and follow the valley to the deep reds just before Mochioke Tunnel.
The way in starts at Takizawa Dam in Okuchichibu, a 132 m concrete gravity dam completed in 2008. Near the dam you leave Route 140 and follow the Nakatsugawa-Mitsumineguchi-Teishajo Prefectural Road up the Nakatsu River valley.
Nakatsu Gorge, a prefectural scenic site, runs about 10 km along this tributary of the Arakawa. The road has two lanes but many curves, passing a famous maple called Joro Momiji and cliffs up to 100 m high. The prefecture singles out the deep red foliage just before Mochioke Tunnel; leaves usually turn from late October to mid-November. There is a small parking area near Aihara Bridge, with a public restroom and a shop just before the bridge. People on foot cross the road to see the leaves, so watch for them.
Right now traffic alternates on one lane near the Oname rock shed, and the Ogurasawa–Deai Tunnel section closes after heavy rain. Return the same way to Route 140 and rest at Michi-no-Eki Otaki Onsen.
Highlights HIGHLIGHTS
- 01
Takizawa Dam
A 132 m gravity dam completed in 2008; the area marks the entrance to the prefectural road into Nakatsu Gorge.
Source：MLIT Kanto Regional Development Bureau, Arakawa-Joryu River Office ktr.mlit.go.jp - 02
Joro Momiji and 100 m cliffs
A named maple and 100 m cliffs line the two-lane prefectural road.
Source：Chichibu Tourism Association chichibuji.gr.jp - 03
Before Mochioke Tunnel
Deep red foliage the prefecture calls spectacular; usually late October to mid-November.
Source：Saitama Prefecture pref.saitama.lg.jp - 04
Aihara Bridge
A small parking area nearby, with a public restroom and a shop just before the bridge.
Source：Chichibu Tourism Association chichibuji.gr.jp
Sources and official information SOURCES
- OfficialSaitama Prefecture pref.saitama.lg.jphttps://www.pref.saitama.lg.jp/b1007/chisei-dorokisei.html
- SourceMLIT Kanto Regional Development Bureau, Arakawa-Joryu River Office ktr.mlit.go.jphttps://www.ktr.mlit.go.jp/arajo/arajo00145.html
- SourceChichibu Tourism Association chichibuji.gr.jphttps://www.chichibuji.gr.jp/event/kouyou/
- SourceSaitama Prefecture pref.saitama.lg.jphttps://www.pref.saitama.lg.jp/b0112/kanko-tiiki-info/enjoy-fall.html
Written by the APEX DRIVE editors from facts in the official sources above (not a copy of the official text).Last checked: . Details may change. Please check the official page before you go.