Living Heritage - Towards UNESCO 2030
2026-07-26

Chichibu is more than just a destination; it is a living, breathing museum. As
we look toward the year 2030, our entire region is united in a passionate endeavor to
register Japan's "Onsen Culture" as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Our legacy thrives in the overwhelming energy of the Chichibu Night Festival—
already recognized by UNESCO in 2016 as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. It is
intricately woven into the vivid threads of traditional Meisen silk, and beautifully
carved into the wooden beams of our historic architecture. These are not relics of
the past, but the very pulse of our daily lives.
By choosing to stay in our hot spring village, you become a vital part of this ongoing
story. Your journey here is a profound act of sustainable tourism. Every visit
supports our local artisans, preserves ancient traditions, and ensures that
Chichibu’s vibrant culture continues to flourish for generations to come. Immerse
yourself in the soul of Chichibu, where your travels help protect a living masterpiece.
