Lake Okutama

Welcome to Lake Okutama, a massive and vital body of water that serves as the 'Oasis of the Tokyo Metropolitan area.' Officially known as the Ogōchi Reservoir, this lake was formed in 1957 when the Tama River was dammed by the…

Our tour begins at the Ogōchi Dam, the massive wall of concrete that holds back the Tama River to create Lake Okutama. Standing at the top of the dam, you are 149 meters above the original riverbed. …

Adjacent to the dam is the 'Okutama Water and Greenery Fureai-kan,' an informative museum and rest stop. This facility is designed to provide 'education and deeper understanding' of the role Lake Okutama plays in Tokyo's…

A short train or bus ride from the dam leads to Hatonosu Canyon, one of the 'most iconic viewing spots' in the Okutama area. Here, the Tama River has carved a dramatic, deep gorge through the rock, creating 'beautiful crystal…

Further down the river, we reach the Sawai area, home to the 'Sawai-no-Kushi Ozawa Brewery' (Sake no Kushi). This brewery, which has been producing sake for over 300 years, is a 'must-visit' for anyone interested in Japanese…

No trip to Okutama is complete without a visit to the Musashi Mitake Shrine, located at the summit of Mount Mitake. This area has been a 'center of mountain worship for thousands of years' and offers a 'peaceful alternative' to…

For those seeking to 'kick things up a notch,' the Okutama area is the 'perfect place to enjoy adventure experiences.' Companies like Canyons Japan offer 'beginner-friendly canyoning and rafting tours' that allow you to literally…

Our journey around Lake Okutama and its surrounding wonders draws to a close. We have stood atop the monumental Ogōchi Dam, explored the 'intellectual heart' of the museum, navigated the dramatic Hatonosu Canyon, tasted the…