Okutama is known for its lush nature, which is why the sight of a run-down factory with mountains in the background seems rather bizarre. Some say it’s an eyesore, but for people who like steampunk, it’s a prized find.
Dates Visited: 2021/02/05 & 2022/01/15
What the Okutama Industrial Hikawa Plant is
Called Okutama Kogyo in Japanese, Okutama Industrial Hikawa Plant is a cement factory. Because they mine limestone, they built a railway line to transfer materials between Mitake Station and Hikawa Station. In fact, the name they had when they were first established in 1937 was Okutama Electric Railway.
They had the license and had built the rail line. But before it even opened, the Japanese government decided to instead use the railway for public transport, and so the license was duly transferred. Hikawa Station was also renamed Okutama Station.
Today, the factory is still open for business. The plant looks like it had seen better days and it doesn’t look like there are actually people working inside, but it is without a doubt operational. If you’re like me, who finds the factory rather fascinating, there are two spots where you can exceptional views you don’t see in everyday life.
Two Ways to See the Factory
There are two ways you can see and take photos of Okutama Hikawa Industrial Plant. One is a straightforward path that will take you to see a view of one side of the factory. The other is a much longer route on a public road that leads to a forest trail.
Head to Hikawa International Trout Fishing Area
Turn right and keep following the road. The factory will come into view. If you head to Hikawa International Trout Fishing Area, you will see a better view. You can enter this facility without fishing for ¥300, so if you want to go in just to take photos, it’s possible.
Follow a Public Road that Leads to a Forest Trail
This route will allow you to see the factory up close. Following the forest path will also lead you to a view of the forest trolleys.
To get to the trolley area, follow these steps:
- Exit JR Ome Line Okutama Station and turn left.
- Keep going until you find the first intersection. The sign at the stoplight should say “Okutama Station Entrance Intersection.” Turn left at this corner.
- Climb an uphill slope and cross the railroad crossing.
- Turn left at the end, then immediately turn right. The fire brigade should be on your left. (You will see hoses on display so you know it’s the right building.)
- Turn left at the end of the road.
- Keep following this path. You should be able to see the pool of an elementary school.
- Once you reach the end, you will see a fork in the road. The left side wills say “Keep Out.”(立入禁止); this is a private road so you shouldn’t enter. The one on the right is public so it’s okay to keep following this path.
- As you follow the road, you will see different parts of the factory. Just make sure not to enter where it says not to. You should be fine as long as you stick to the road.
- The asphalt road will end at some point and will lead to a forest trail. It’s narrow and rather quiet, but don’t worry, you’ll reach the railroad trolley area soon enough. This should be visible on your left side as you keep walking.
When I reached the trolley area and looked down, I found workers along the railroad, which was a relief because, at one point, I’d begun thinking that I was alone deep in an unmarked trail. After taking pictures, I also happened to come across a couple of hikers. This means that this area is not as utterly remote as it seems, but it’s good to take necessary precautions nonetheless.
I was able to find this route thanks to Hauyashi’s blog (Japanese). When you look up “deep travel” or search unusual places in Japan, Hauyashi’s blog posts are among the top ranking. He also has a YouTube channel.
Okutama Factory Video
Okutama Industrial Hikawa Plant in Photos
