Tokyo, a city synonymous with skyscrapers, crowds, and vibrant nightlife, is often associated with the hustle and bustle of urban life. But beyond its concrete jungle lies a side that few travelers discover: a breathtaking expanse of natural beauty that will leave you speechless.
Escape to the Mountains: Okutama’s Tranquil Embrace
Imagine lush forests whispering secrets, steep mountains reaching for the sky, and pristine rivers reflecting the beauty of the surrounding landscape. This is Okutama, a hidden gem nestled within the Chichibu Tama-Kai National Park.
A mere two-hour train ride from bustling Shinjuku, you’ll find yourself transported to a world of serenity. Okutama offers a respite from the city’s energy, inviting you to immerse yourself in its rejuvenating atmosphere.
The air is crisp and clean, carrying the scent of pine trees and the gentle murmur of the Tama River. The forests beckon with hiking trails leading to spectacular viewpoints, offering panoramic views of the mountainous landscape.
Mount Mitake, a majestic peak towering over 900 meters, is a popular day trip. A scenic train ride takes you to the mountain’s upper reaches, where you can embark on a 20-minute walk along an ancient cedar-lined path leading to Musashi-Mitake Shrine, a sacred site steeped in history and spirituality.
The shukubō, traditional lodges managed by Shinto priest families, offer a unique overnight experience. Mountain vegetables and freshly caught fish grace the tables, providing a taste of the region’s culinary delights.
Kanoto Rock, a mesmerizing geological formation nestled deep within the forest, is a testament to the area’s ancient past. This mystical place, with its towering chert formations, is believed to be a portal to the sacred realm of Mount Odake.
Adventures in the Caves: An Underworldly Journey
Okutama offers more than just breathtaking surface beauty. Venture beneath the earth and explore the Otake Limestone Caves, a hidden world of stalactites and stalagmites.
These caverns, stretching for over 300 meters, offer a glimpse into the earth’s history. Further inland, the Nippara Limestone Caves enchant with their illuminated formations and the cool, 11-degree Celsius air that envelops you.
The Tama River: A Gateway to Recreation
After your exploration of Okutama’s hidden wonders, the Tama River beckons. The river offers a variety of recreational activities, from relaxing riverside camping to thrilling rafting adventures.
Island Paradise: Niijima’s Serene Beaches and Volcanic Wonders
Tokyo’s Izu Island chain holds another hidden treasure: Niijima, a surfer’s paradise. A short ferry ride from the mainland transports you to a world of pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and volcanic landscapes.
The island’s calm atmosphere allows you to unwind and reconnect with nature. Explore Niijima on a bicycle, soaking in the island’s beauty at your own pace.
Yunohama Outdoor Hot Springs, perched atop a rocky outcrop, offers a unique bathing experience with breathtaking ocean views. The onsen is open 24 hours, perfect for stargazing under the vast expanse of the night sky.
Niijima Water Park, with its unique stone structures made from kōgaseki volcanic rhyolite, adds another dimension to the island’s natural beauty. The park also features moyai statues, reminiscent of Easter Island’s iconic figures.
Habushiura Coast, with its milky blue waters and white sand beach, is a surfer’s dream come true. The Shiromama Cliffs, a breathtaking display of volcanic strata, add to the island’s dramatic appeal.
Diving into Kozushima: A Submerged World of Beauty
Just a short ferry ride from Niijima lies Kozushima, a diver’s paradise. The island’s calm waters and diverse marine life make it a haven for exploring the underworld.
The Akasaki Promenade, a network of wooden walkways, offers stunning views of the pristine cove. Snorkeling reveals a vibrant underwater world, teeming with colorful fish and coral reefs.
Mount Tenjo, the island’s highest peak, offers panoramic views of Kozushima and even Mount Fuji on a clear day. The volcano’s crater loop trail takes you through diverse landscapes, from the moonscapes of Urasabaku and Hairanaigasawa to the moss-covered alpine scenery of Fudo-ike and Sendai-ike.
Kozushima Hotspring Recreation Center provides the perfect way to end a day of island adventures. The open-air baths, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, offer a breathtaking view of the night sky.
From the bustling city streets to the tranquil mountains and serene islands, Tokyo’s natural side is a testament to the diversity of this extraordinary city. Embrace the adventure and discover the beauty that lies beyond the neon lights.
