J ● T| Japanese Traditions and culture

Located at the westernmost point of Tokyo is the town of Okutama. The natural beauty here is so stunning that you might wonder if this is really still part of Tokyo! There are plenty of sights to see here, and it’s not as well-known as tourist hotspots like Kamakura or Hakone, so visitors from abroad are often pleasantly surprised.

In this article, we’d like to introduce five must-visit spots in Okutama.

１）First up: “Hikawa Gorge”

When you exit Okutama Station and turn left, you’ll come across Oku-Hikawa Shrine, known for its “Sanbon-sugi” (three towering cedar trees). Going down the hill next to the shrine, you’ll reach Hikawa Gorge. The sight of the vast nature that unfolds before you from the riverside is simply breathtaking.

There’s a suspension bridge that only allows one person to cross at a time, and you can move around by climbing on large rocks, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll (although heels and sandals are not recommended!). The crystal-clear river is surprisingly cold even in the summer, and you can enjoy barbecuing on the riverbank.

２）A hidden gem that you won’t want to leave! “Okutama Kogyo Ice Factory”

You may wonder why you would visit a factory when you came to Okutama to enjoy nature, but the sheer presence of the building that suddenly appears in the mountains is amazing!

With a rusted giant iron exterior, passages and stairs crisscross the building like a movie set. You can’t help but think of that scene in Laputa: Castle in the Sky where Pazu catches Sheeta as she falls from the flying ship.

If you go around to the south side of the station, you can also see the factory up close. It’s so run-down that you might think it’s an abandoned factory, but it’s surprising to know that it’s still in operation.

It’s no wonder that it’s considered a holy site for urban explorers.

３）NIHARA limestone cave

４）Absolutely want to capture in a photo! ‘Okutama Lake and Ogouchi Dam

15-minute bus ride from Okutama Station takes you to Lake Okutama, located upstream of the Tama River. As Japan’s largest reservoir, the vast lake is definitely worth seeing. There is also a floating bridge on the lake that allows you to walk across it!

It’s quite impressive to think that the water used for daily life in Tokyo comes all the way from here.

５）A healing spot loved by locals: “Moegi no Yu” what is hot spring

It is a hot spring facility that uses 100% source water pumped from deep underground in Okutama. The open-air bath has a superb view and you can soak in the hot water while looking down at the mountain stream. There may be a wait during busy times, but there is a dining area and an outdoor footbath where you can relax and it is recommended.

How was it?

In addition to the places introduced in this article, there are many other fun spots in Okutama.

On weekends and holidays, you can get there in 90 minutes from Shinjuku by taking the “Holiday Rapid” train.

Please come and be healed by the great nature of Okutama!