Welcome to TOKYO BEAT- a special series by your Tokyo Tourism Representative (New York Office) that aims to provide you with story ideas and inspiration. As Tokyo begins its process of opening up after lifting its state of emergency due to COVID-19, the season is now at the optimal time for enjoying all of the nature that the city has to offer. That’s right, within the bounds of the city exist everything from mountains and valleys and even tropical islands – perfect for idyllic day trips and longer getaways from the cosmopolitan energy of the city. Those with their eyebrows raised would best prepare to have their eyes dazzled.
Immersive Natural Splendor
Even minutes outside of the center of Tokyo, the landscape in outlying areas become incredibly complex, with imposing mountains, lush valleys, meandering forests and more. Among the most popular is Hatonosu Valley in Okutama, in Tokyo’s western region, a verdant expanse that makes way for some stunning sightseeing, as well as a variety of outdoor activities. The pristine Tama River, which flows through the valley gorge, is a visual and aural delight, and completes the incredible pictures of the landscape that can be taken from the area’s 40-meter high cliff and a suspension bridge. From here, hikers can also walk to the adjacent Hikawa Valley, which is renowned for being one of the most relaxing places for a leisurely hike. Equally alluring is the Hikawa Kokusai Masu Tsuriba, a trout fishing site where people of all ages can enjoy fishing along a gentle stream. Finally, enjoy a relaxing hot springs bath at a local onsen like Moeginoyuor partake in the local cuisine at a number of shops and cafes. Only a 2-hour train ride from central Tokyo, this is a perfect daytrip for those in need of a break from the city lifestyle. Additional attractions for consideration in the area are the manmade Okutama Lake and its picturesque surroundings that include over 10,000 cherry trees; also nearby is Mt. Mitake, whose 929-meter peak is accessible by foot or by funicular and offers sweeping views.
Breathtaking Tropical Existence
For eco-tourists, Tokyo is an unexpected destination that features a tropical lifestyle that is little known, at least for the moment. The island of Oshimahas become highly popular for a geo tour, as the largest island of the volcanic Izu Islands chain. Spanning 35 square miles, this area in particular is noted for its ‘moon-like’ terrain, jaggy and rocky due to the island’s still active volcano Mt. Mihara. Anyone with interest in geology will be stunned by the famed ‘black desert’ and its hardened lava sediments along the mountain; the soaring cliffs along the sea are equally dramatic and awe-inspiring. Much of the rest of the island offers sweeping greenery that famously become filled with vibrant camellia flowers in February and March. One of the most popular activities on the island is to take advantage of the exceptional onsen hot springs baths – the volcanic activity powers some of the best quality water, and those with views of the sea and landscape simply cannot be beat. While accessible by plane or helicopter, most people opt for overnight passenger ferries that take about 10-12 hours; once on the island, visitors can stay in everything from ryokan to camping grounds. Travelers who make it down to Oshima can access eight other islands, including the nature havens of Toshima, Niijima and Shikinejima, the diving destinations of Kozushima, Miyakejima and Mikurajima. The infamous Hachijojima, a formal penal colony now historical attraction, and tranquil Aogashima make up the most remote of the Izu chain. Though 621-miles away, the Ogasawara Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is considered to be the ‘Galapagos’ of Asia, is also part of Tokyo. Comprised of a whopping 30 islands, including Iwojima, it is teeming with incredible nature on land and in the sea.
For more information on surprising nature destinations in Tokyo, contact press@tokyo-nyc.com or call 917-200-4887. For general information on traveling in Tokyo, head toTokyoTokyo.jpandGotokyo.org/en/
To visit the archives, visit:www.japansolutionusa.com/tokyobeat
Comentários