Amidst the bustling life of Tokyo lies the tranquil oasis of Lake Okutama, a destination famed for its breathtaking autumn scenery. The lake, surrounded by lush mountains, reflects a stunning array of fall colors, creating a mesmerizing blend of nature and art. Ideal for a day trip, this spot offers a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of Japan’s fall foliage up close.
Overview
| Place | Lake Okutama (奥多摩湖) |
| Best viewing time | Mid-October to mid-November |
| Festival | None |
| Illumination | None |
| Foliage | Japanese maple, ginkgo, zelkova, beech, Japanese larch, Japanese rowan |
| Business hours | Open year-round; specific trails may close after November 30 |
| Admission | Free |
| Related site | Okutama Tourism Association |
Why Lake Okutama is Worth Visiting in Autumn
- Reflective Beauty: The lake’s surface acts as a mirror, reflecting the stunning autumn colors and creating a mesmerizing, picturesque scene.
- Scenic Hiking Trails: Various trails around the lake, such as the Ikoi Path and the Mukashi Michi Hiking Trail, offer immersive experiences through the heart of the foliage.
- Floating Bridges: Unique features of the lake include the Tozura and Mugiyama floating bridges, providing distinctive vantage points for viewing the foliage.
Lake Okutama Fall Foliage
Embark on a journey to Lake Okutama during the autumn season, and you’ll discover a captivating display of nature’s fine work. Just a short distance from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, this area becomes a sanctuary of fall beauty, where the landscape is dramatically transformed. The mountains encircling the lake burst into a riot of colors, from deep reds to golden yellows, creating a stunning contrast against the peaceful blue of the sky.
The lake itself, a serene man-made reservoir, enhances this spectacle. Its glass-like surface reflects the fiery hues of the surrounding trees, doubling the visual feast and creating a serene, almost otherworldly setting. Strolling around Lake Okutama, visitors can explore various trails that offer immersive experiences amidst the foliage. These paths are more than just routes; they are invitations to delve into the heart of autumn in Japan. The paths are gateways that allow people who tread on them to delve into the heart of autumn in Japan.
The experience is further enhanced by the lake’s floating bridges, namely Tozura and Mugiyama, which provide unique viewpoints to appreciate the surrounding kaleidoscope of colors. Standing on these bridges, visitors can feel as if they are floating amidst a sea of autumn leaves, surrounded by an ever-changing canvas of nature.
Visiting Lake Okutama from mid-October to mid-November is ideal for witnessing the peak of the fall foliage. During this period, the leaves reach their most vibrant, creating a natural spectacle that is both breathtaking and serene. The lake’s tranquil atmosphere offers a welcome respite from the fast-paced life of the city, inviting visitors to relax and soak in the beauty of the season.
The area around Lake Okutama also features cultural landmarks, including historical shrines and temples, which add a layer of cultural richness to the natural scenery. Whether you’re there for hiking, cycling, or a peaceful walk, the fall foliage at Lake Okutama presents endless opportunities to experience and photograph the picturesque beauty of autumn in Japan.
Facilities & Amenities
Lake Okutama provides well-maintained facilities, including restrooms and vending machines near Tozura Bridge. The Okutama Water and Green Friendship Hall features exhibits on water conservation and local ecology, a 3D theater, and a Panorama Restaurant offering scenic dining experiences. Hiking trails like the Ikoi Path and Okutama Mukashi Michi are equipped with distance markers and rest areas. Nearby onsens, such as Moegi no Yu and Tsurunoyu Onsen, offer a relaxing end to a day of exploration.
Dining Options
Lake Okutama offers a delightful range of dining options that highlight local flavors and scenic surroundings. The Panorama Restaurant, located in the Water and Green Friendship Hall, is a must-visit for its famous “Dam Curry,” a creative dish inspired by the Ogouchi Dam. Nonkiya, a cozy eatery, serves hand-made soba noodles accompanied by stunning views of the lake. For a more casual dining experience, Earth Garden offers Japanese-style burgers in a tranquil forest setting, while VERTERE Taproom provides craft beer and light meals in a relaxed atmosphere. For those craving traditional cuisine, Hatonosu Kamameshi specializes in kamameshi, a flavorful rice dish cooked in an iron pot. These establishments emphasize fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that every meal complements the natural beauty of Lake Okutama. Please note that Lake Okutama is big, and the locations of these restaurants are scattered and not close together. They can be easily accessible by car, but buses are few and far in between, so ample planning is recommended.
Travel Tips
- Visit mid-October to mid-November for peak foliage.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes for trails.
- Bring cash, as some establishments may not accept cards.
- Check for announcements as some locations like the floating bridges may undergo construction at different times of the year
How to Get to Lake Okutama
By Train
From JR Okutama Station, take the #9, #10, #11, #12, or #14 bus. Get off at Ideno (出野) bus stop.
Mugiyama Floating Bridge
From JR Okutama Station, ride the #9, 10, or 12 bus and get off at Ogouchi Shrine bus stop.
Tozura Floating Bridge
From JR Okutama Station, take the number 9, 10, or 12 bus. Get off at Tozura bus stop.
By Car
About 60 minutes from Ken-O Expressway Hinode IC
