Okutama
An easy escape to Tokyo’s mountainous backyard
Located on Tokyo’s western edge, Okutama is a hidden gem that offers a refreshing escape from the bustling city life. With its lush mountains, beautiful lakes, and a limestone cave, this serene destination provides exciting outdoor activities and a relaxing environment for travelers seeking some quiet time. Despite its proximity to the city center, Okutama remains a peaceful haven, making it a popular choice for day trips.
Don’t Miss: Fun outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and kayaking
One of the main attractions of Okutama is its abundant opportunities for outdoor activities. Hiking enthusiasts will be delighted to explore the various trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints and hidden gems. Mt. Mitake, one of the most popular hiking spots in the area, offers a refreshing hike through its moss-covered forest. The Rock Garden, a moss-covered area within Mt. Mitake, is a must-see for nature lovers.
For those who enjoy fishing, Okutama is a paradise. The Tama River, the longest river in the Tokyo area, runs through Okutama, providing ample opportunities for anglers to cast their lines and catch some fish. The cool and clear water of the river is home to various species of fish, making it a favorite spot for fishing enthusiasts.
Kayaking is another popular activity in Okutama. The calm and pristine lakes offer the perfect setting for a leisurely paddle. Lake Okutama, in particular, is a picturesque spot for kayaking. Its tranquil waters and stunning surroundings create a peaceful and serene atmosphere that is ideal for relaxation.
Take a sake brewery tour and sample a variety of rice wines
Okutama is also known for its sake breweries, where visitors can learn about the traditional brewing process and sample a wide variety of rice wines. One of the most popular breweries in the area is Ozawa Brewery. They offer free tours where visitors can witness the sake-making process and learn about the history and culture behind this traditional Japanese drink. After the tour, visitors can indulge in a sake tasting session, where they can sample more than 10 varieties of sake.
The brewery also has a cafe that serves delicious snacks like steamed buns, providing the perfect accompaniment to the sake tasting experience. For those who prefer a full meal, the brewery has a tofu restaurant where visitors can enjoy a traditional Japanese meal made with locally sourced ingredients.
Relax in a countryside coffee shop and admire the gorgeous colors of fall
If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, Okutama offers charming countryside coffee shops where you can relax and enjoy a cup of coffee while taking in the beautiful scenery. These coffee shops provide a tranquil atmosphere and a cozy ambiance, making them the perfect place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
One of the highlights of visiting Okutama in the fall is the opportunity to witness the stunning colors of autumn foliage. The forest surrounding the area transforms into a vibrant palette of red, orange, and yellow, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Taking a leisurely stroll through the forest and hearing the crisp sound of fallen leaves underfoot is an experience that truly embodies the beauty of the season.
How to Get There
Getting to Okutama is relatively easy, thanks to its convenient location and well-connected transportation system. The most common way to reach Okutama is by train. From central Tokyo, you can take the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station to Nakano Station. At Nakano Station, transfer to the Ome Line and continue your journey to Okutama Station. The entire trip takes approximately 90 minutes.
Alternatively, you can take the Chuo Line Holiday Rapid Okutama, which operates on weekends and offers a direct route from Shinjuku Station to Okutama Station. This option provides a more convenient and time-saving travel experience.
Once you arrive at Okutama Station, you can easily explore the area on foot or rent a bicycle. The compact size of the town makes it accessible to visitors, allowing them to conveniently navigate the various attractions and landmarks.
Mt. Mitake: Take a refreshing hike
One of the highlights of Okutama is Mt. Mitake, a popular destination for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. Mt. Mitake offers a range of hiking opportunities, catering to both beginners and experienced hikers. The mountain is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including rare plant species and various bird species.
For a refreshing hike, you can follow the Mukashi Michi Trail, which starts from Okutama Station and leads to Lake Okutama. This trail takes you through a scenic route, passing by traditional houses and offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Along the way, you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature and appreciate the beauty of the landscape.
Try a wide variety of sake
No visit to Okutama is complete without indulging in the local sake. The region is home to several sake breweries, where visitors can learn about the traditional brewing process and sample a wide variety of rice wines. One of the most renowned breweries in Okutama is Ozawa Brewery.
At Ozawa Brewery, visitors can take a free tour of the facility and witness the intricate process of sake-making. The tour provides an insight into the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into producing this beloved Japanese beverage. After the tour, visitors can enjoy a sake tasting session, where they can sample different types of sake and discover their unique flavors and characteristics.
The brewery also has a cafe that offers a range of snacks and light meals. Visitors can enjoy delicious steamed buns or opt for a full meal at the brewery’s tofu restaurant. The cafe and restaurant provide a relaxing ambiance and a chance to savor the flavors of local cuisine while surrounded by the natural beauty of Okutama.
Explore Nippara Limestone Cave
For those seeking an adventure, a visit to Nippara Limestone Cave is a must. This natural wonder is a labyrinth of underground passages and caverns, filled with stunning rock formations that date back millions of years. The cave is illuminated with multicolored lights, creating a surreal and ethereal atmosphere.
As you navigate through the cave, you will encounter Buddhist figures and objects of worship, adding a spiritual element to the experience. One of the figures is believed to have the power to grant prayers related to love, making it a popular spot for couples and those seeking romantic blessings.
The temperature inside the cave remains a cool 11 degrees Celsius year-round, providing a refreshing escape from Tokyo’s scorching summer heat. Exploring the cave is an exhilarating and awe-inspiring adventure that allows visitors to appreciate the wonders of nature and the geological history of the region.
Have some river fun
Okutama is blessed with the presence of the Tama River, the longest river in the Tokyo area. The river runs through the town, offering a range of water activities and recreational opportunities. Whether you’re looking to have a relaxing picnic by the riverside or engage in more adventurous pursuits like fishing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or rafting, the Tama River has something for everyone.
The serene and picturesque surroundings of the river provide the perfect backdrop for a leisurely day out. You can pack a picnic basket, spread out a blanket by the riverside, and enjoy a peaceful meal while soaking in the natural beauty of the surroundings. The cool and clear water of the river also presents an excellent opportunity for fishing enthusiasts to cast their lines and try their luck at catching some fish.
For those seeking a more thrilling experience, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and rafting are popular choices. The calm and gentle flow of the river makes it suitable for beginners, while the stunning scenery adds an extra element of enjoyment to the water activities.
Cross Lake Okutama’s floating bridge
Lake Okutama is one of the area’s hidden gems, offering a serene and picturesque setting for nature lovers. One of the unique features of the lake is the Mugiyama Floating Bridge, a floating pontoon bridge that provides a fun and exciting way to cross the lake.
The bridge is supported by empty oil drums, giving it a distinctive appearance and earning it the nickname “Drum Bridge.” As you walk across the bridge, you can feel it wobbling under your feet, adding a sense of adventure and thrill to the experience. Crossing the Mugiyama Floating Bridge allows you to savor the stunning view of Lake Okutama and the surrounding mountains, providing a memorable and Instagram-worthy moment.
Admire the foliage in fall
One of the best times to visit Okutama is during the autumn season when the forest foliage transforms into a vibrant display of colors. From early October to mid-November, the landscape is adorned with hues of red, orange, and yellow, creating a breathtaking sight that attracts visitors from near and far.
Taking a leisurely stroll through the forest during this time allows you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. The crisp sound of fallen leaves underfoot adds to the sensory experience, creating a soothing and tranquil ambiance. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast looking to capture the stunning colors or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Okutama in the fall offers a memorable and enchanting experience.
Conclusion
Okutama is a hidden paradise located on Tokyo’s western edge. With its lush mountains, beautiful lakes, and a limestone cave, this serene destination offers a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking for adventure or a traveler seeking a peaceful retreat, Okutama has something for everyone.
From hiking and fishing to sake brewery tours and admiring the fall foliage, Okutama provides a wide range of activities and experiences that cater to various interests. Its convenient location and well-connected transportation system make it easily accessible, allowing visitors to explore the area and immerse themselves in its natural beauty.
So, if you’re looking for an easy escape to Tokyo’s mountainous backyard, Okutama is the ideal destination. Discover the hidden gems, immerse yourself in nature, and create unforgettable memories in this tranquil and picturesque paradise.
Address And Maps Location:
Nishitama District, Okutama, Tokyo
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