Okutama, situated on Tokyo’s western frontier, is renowned for its scenic beauty and adventurous offerings. Just a stone's throw from the bustling heart of Tokyo, Okutama promises the quintessential Japanese experience with serene landscapes, exhilarating outdoor activities, and a glimpse into traditional culinary delights.
What is Okutama
Okutama, lying on Tokyo’s western edge, boasts mountains, pristine lakes, and a limestone cave. Here, visitors can indulge in a plethora of outdoor activities and also find a tranquil environment perfect for those seeking quiet moments. A day trip from central Tokyo is easily manageable.
Access
You can easily reach Okutama by train in about 90 minutes from central Tokyo.
From Shinjuku Station, take the JR Chuo Line heading, change to the Ome Line at Tachikawa Station and get off at Okutama Station and the cost is around 1,200 yen.
The Chuo Line Holiday Rapid Okutama is available on weekends, so you can go directly from Shinjuku Station to Okutama Station.
What you can do
Revel in nature and unwind.
Engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, kayaking, SUP, and more.
Experience an onsen (hot spring).
Visit a sake (rice wine) brewery.
Food must to eat
Yamame Yamame, a renowned river fish in Japan, dwells in rivers originating from tall mountains. It can be savored salt-grilled or as sashimi.
Dashimaki Teisyoku Ranway stands out as a culinary destination specializing in "dashimaki," a traditional Japanese rolled omelette.Authentic Japanese Cuisine: Ranway promises an authentic Japanese dining experience, focusing on dashimaki. Celebrated for its fresh ingredients, meticulous techniques, and visual appeal, Japanese cuisine finds a faithful representation at Ranway.
Dashimaki Speciality: Dashimaki, a rolled omelette, demands skill and precision. Ranway’s dedication to it showcases their commitment to this culinary art.
Variety of Flavors: Check their website for various dashimaki flavors and fillings, catering to both traditional and adventurous palates.
Sample trip idea
9:30 am: Depart from Shinjuku station, arrive at Kori station by 11 am. Board the JR Chuo Line (Special Rapid Service) for Tachikawa, then transfer to the JR Ome Line for Okutama. Travel time is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Begin with a "Dashimaki Teisyoku" lunch at Ranway.
Visit Manseihashi, close to Ranway. This magnificent bridge offers panoramic views. Consider having lunch in the vicinity.
Proceed to Okutama lake. After savoring lunch and views at Manseihashi, take a train to Okutama station followed by a bus to the lake. Here, explore the scenic vistas, especially from the Mugiyama Floating Bridge, locally dubbed the "Drum Bridge" due to its oil drum supports.
Wind down at Okutama Onsen Moegi-no-yu, 10 minutes from Okutama station. Revel in the natural hot spring baths, both indoor and outdoor, while appreciating the vistas of Okutama River.
Head back to Shinjuku.
Other Sightseeing Spots
If time permits, consider exploring:
Hatonosu Gorge: A picturesque spot in Okutama, the gorge is famed for its rock formations, turquoise waters, and lush surroundings.
Ozawa Brewery: Learn about the art of sake-making in this traditional brewery in Okutama.
Nippara Limestone Cave: A natural limestone cave in Okutama, it's an adventurer's delight, displaying stalactites and stalagmites.
In summary, Okutama is a nature lover’s paradise, offering stunning mountains, rivers, and lakes, all easily accessible from central Tokyo.
Comments