A short trip from Tokyo's urban city centre, the Tama region is a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle into the heart of nature.  This expansive region of mountains, lakes and rivers, is a favourite getaway for Tokyo locals. Within the Tama region, less than one hour by train west from Shinjuku, Mt. Takao is a hiking hotspot and perfect for a day trip or overnight stay. Venture another hour west to the Okutama area for more incredible mountain and lake scenery, ideal for hiking, cycling and even meditative forest bathing. Both areas are blessed with rejuvenating onsen hot springs to enjoy. Here we list some recommended highlights for your Tokyo natural getaway in the Tama region.

Mt Takao and surrounds

Takao is the Tama area's main hiking spot, just 50 min. by train from Shinjuku Station you will arrive at Takaosanguchi Station.   A number of hiking trails lead up to the Takaosan summit at 599 meters. Most visitors take the main trail which leads you past all the highlights as it winds its way to the top. Walking will take you about 90 min. but there is a cable car or chair lift that can take you halfway up.

• Takao 599 Museum, before going up the mountain, a few minutes walk from the station, this museum is all about the nature of the Takao area and the hiking options in the surrounds.
• Takao-san Yakuo-in Temple is halfway up Mt. Takao. Founded in the eighth century, visitors will enjoy the tranquil settling of the temple. The temple also conducts religious practices such as a special fire walking ritual in March and waterfall purification rituals. Book in advance to enjoy the temple's very own shojin ryori Buddhist vegetarian cuisine.
• Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu hot spring, is a stunning Japanese style onsen complex with indoor and outdoor baths very conveniently located near the Takaosanguchi station. After a day on the mountain what could be more relaxing than a soak in an onsen?
• Ukai Toriyama restaurant is another local favourite. Step back in time at this picture-perfect site, made up of a number of charming traditional Japanese Sukiya-zukuri buildings with thatched roofs in a beautiful Japanese garden. The restaurant specializes in charcoal grilled chicken enjoyed in traditional surrounds. Reservations are a must.

Learn More about Mt Takao area LINK

Okutama area

Keep travelling west to discover more natural splendour in Tokyo's Okutama area.  Mountains, rivers and lake scenery make it hard to believe you are still in Tokyo. Ideal for a day trip or short stay.

• Lake Okutama is another popular destination for Tokyo locals on the weekend, the scenery is stunning and there are plenty of hikes for every level of ability to be enjoyed in the area.
• Okutama Forest Therapy is a recognised activity here as this was the first area in Tokyo to be approved as a site for the practice. Forest therapy or Shinrin-yoku involves immersing oneself in an environment full of trees. Certified forest therapists can help you to choose one of the five therapy roads. You can also enjoy yoga in the forest or take a class such as pottery or soba noodle making. And why not make time for a relaxing Bath? After an active day enjoy a soak in an onsen, the Okutama area is known for its rejuvenating onsen waters.
• Moegi-no-Yu, just 10 min. walk from JR Okutama Station on the Ome Line, this onsen is convenient for campers and the accommodation along the river, and has views to the Okutama River.
• Janoyu Onsen Takara-so, deep within the mountains of Hinohara village you will find this charming onsen with accommodation. Set above the Akikawa River, the onsen is said to have special powers to relieve tired travellers. Enjoy a bath or book to stay to enjoy the tranquil surrounds more fully. After soaking in the onsen a delicious dinner of locally sourced produce and fresh seafood awaits.

Learn more about the Okutama area LINK

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