TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Okutama Lake is an artificial lake (reservoir) located in Okutama Town, Nishitama District, Tokyo, and is officially a lake formed by the Ogouchi Dam. Ogouchi Dam was built as a water source for Tokyo, flood control, and power generation, and has been developed both before and after the war. The scenery created by the dam and the surrounding mountains changes with the seasons, and is particularly popular with tourists during the seasons of fresh greenery and autumn leaves.
The lake is a prime example of natural scenery close to the capital region, and is a great place to enjoy hiking, driving, cycling, photography, and visiting the dam. It also serves as a base for visiting nearby tourist spots such as hot springs, waterfalls, and limestone caves.
Highlights
- Ogouchi Dam and the view: Magnificent views from the top of the dam (the crest) and the surrounding observation points. The beautiful contrast between the lake surface and the mountains makes it a popular photo spot.
- Lakeside promenades and walking trails: Enjoy nature by walking along promenades overlooking the lake or the "Okutama Old Road." There are courses with different distances and elevations, making it a convenient gateway to everything from light strolls to full-scale trekking.
- Seasonal scenery: The fresh greenery of spring, the young leaves of early summer, and the colorful leaves of autumn are particularly worth seeing. The morning mist and evening scenery are also fantastic.
- Okutama Water and Greenery Experience Center (and other dam management facilities): Offers exhibits and information on dams, flood control, and water sources, making it ideal for sightseeing and learning (prior confirmation may be required for tours).
- Access point to nearby natural spots: You can visit nearby tourist spots such as Hossawa Falls, Nippara Limestone Cave, Hatonosu Valley, and Mt. Mitake.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train + Bus: Get off at Okutama Station on the JR Ome Line. From the station, take the Nishitokyo Bus bound for Lake Okutama (towards Ogouchi Dam), which takes about 15 to 25 minutes (please check the timetable in advance as there are few buses).
- By car: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours from central Tokyo (depending on traffic). The most common route is to head towards Ome via the Chuo Expressway or Ken-O Expressway, then take the national or prefectural road towards Okutama. There is a parking lot, but it tends to fill up during the tourist season.
- Bicycles and motorcycles: The Okutama Loop Road and the winding roads around the lake are popular routes. However, caution is needed in some sections regarding speeding and poor manners.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short tour (only the dam and surrounding views): Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Walking/light hiking (round trip to the promenade or observation deck): Approximately 1.5 to 3 hours
- Day trips including sightseeing in the surrounding areas (waterfalls, caves, hot springs, etc.): 1 day (6-8 hours)
- Relaxing stay with hiking and visiting multiple spots: 1 night (use of nearby accommodations and hot springs)
Nearby spots
- Hossawa Falls: A famous waterfall in Okutama town. There are walking trails and the scenery changes with the seasons.
- Nippara Cave: A large limestone cave that is cool in the summer and easily accessible for sightseeing.
- Hatonosu Valley: A hiking course where you can enjoy the beauty of the valley. It is also a famous spot for viewing autumn leaves.
- Mt. Mitake: A mountain that can be reached by cable car, and walks around the summit and Musashi Mitake Shrine are popular.
- Okutama Onsen Moeginoyu: A hot spring facility near Okutama Station, it's convenient for soothing the fatigue of travel.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Traffic and Congestion: Roads, parking lots, and buses will be congested, especially during the autumn foliage season (late October to early November) and on consecutive holidays. Please check public transportation and bus timetables in advance and allow plenty of time to plan your trip.
- Waterside safety: Because Lake Okutama is a reservoir, swimming is often prohibited in the lake, and there are dangers due to sudden depths and cold water. Please be sure to follow all instructions and no-entry signs.
- Preparation for hiking/hiking: The weather is changeable along the mountains, and there are windy days and sudden drops in temperature. Dress in layers, wear non-slip shoes, and bring drinking water and snacks.
- Manners and Environmental Conservation: Always take your trash home with you and behave in a way that does not harm the environment. Be mindful of manners regarding noise, street parking, and smoking, as this will cause a nuisance to local residents.
- Check the dam and facilities in advance: Tours of the dam interior and use of the facilities may require reservations or operating hours. If you wish to visit, please check the official information in advance.
- Drone use: Flying drones around lakes and dams may be restricted or prohibited. Please obtain permission in advance or check the flight rules.
- Winter roads and weather: Road closures and dangers may occur due to snow and ice. Please check the latest road information during the winter.
Lake Okutama is easily accessible from central Tokyo and is a spot where you can enjoy nature in a short amount of time. Plan your itinerary based on the season and the scenery you want to see, and be sure to check public transportation times and local precautions to ensure a safe trip.
