Hello, fellow travel lovers!
This time, I visited the breathtakingly beautiful Lake Okutama during the autumn foliage season. From floating bridges and scenic spots to delicious local cuisine unique to Okutama, I’ll share it all in this packed adventure!
- Scoring the Elusive “Chā-chan Manjū”!
- A Surprise Encounter with a Troop of Monkeys!
- Floating Bridges and Stunning Autumn Foliage
- Okutama Lake Onsen Shrine: A Hidden Oasis of Relaxation
- Learning About Dams at the Okutama Water and Green Interaction Center
- A moment of reflection on the dam and its history during a post-meal stroll.
- Okutama Lake Rest Center Marui-tei
- Souvenir Hunting at Kosuge Roadside Station
- The finale was a cozy and relaxing time at Kosuge no Yu
- TabiJun's Tip
Scoring the Elusive “Chā-chan Manjū”!
旅のスタートは、朝ごはんにと楽しみにしていた「チャーちゃんまんじゅう」。到着するも、なんとシャッターが閉じ、張り紙には「臨時休業」の文字…。
As we stood there disappointed, a savior appeared—a friendly young man! “Hold on a moment,” he said before disappearing behind the building. A few minutes later, he returned with a warm smile, accompanied by a kind-looking lady. “Could this be Chā-chan herself?” I wondered excitedly.
From a styrofoam box, they unveiled freshly made manjū!
They even had freshly made rice balls! We got a sneak preview of items that were about to be shipped to the roadside station.
“Try both the sweet and savory ones!” the kind lady suggested with a warm smile. Touched by her thoughtfulness, we ended up getting almost every variety available.
The standout favorite was definitely the ‘Chā-dora’
The chewy pancake-like dough combined with the perfectly balanced salty-sweet handmade red bean paste was absolutely divine. Everyone unanimously agreed, “This is delicious!” It’s worth coming to Okutama just to try this!
A Surprise Encounter with a Troop of Monkeys!
With our stomachs satisfied from the manjū, we headed down the mountain road toward the floating bridge… when suddenly, a troop of monkeys appeared!
There was a monkey carrying a baby on its back,
a monkey gazing wistfully at the mountain scenery,
and a monkey intensely staring at us from atop a fence—each with their own unique personality.
"Could they be eyeing the remaining manjū?" we thought, quickly closing the window and cautiously taking photos. As the car approached, the monkeys on the road scattered in an instant. It was a truly unique surprise experience from nature!
Floating Bridges and Stunning Autumn Foliage
- Tozura Floating Bridge
Under the clear blue sky, we crossed the floating bridge surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage. The breathtaking scenery had our excitement soaring, and we couldn’t stop snapping photos!
Striking high-energy poses, perfectly matching the sunny vibes!
- Ogouchi Shrine
With determination, we begin the climb!
At the top of the stairs, a breathtaking panoramic view of Lake Okutama awaits!
This spot is well-known as a power spot! It's the perfect place to recharge your energy and boost your luck!
We offered our prayers with gratitude to the deity who safeguards the vital water supply for the capital!
The moment I looked up at the bell, I couldn’t help but think, “Doesn’t this look like Baymax?” Its design is so charming and comforting!
- Mugiyama Floating Bridge
The peak of the autumn foliage seemed to have passed, but the scenery was still stunningly beautiful.
The lake surface sparkles beautifully!
Okutama Lake Onsen Shrine: A Hidden Oasis of Relaxation
A hidden gem with no signboards and even Google Maps failing to show the exact route.
Even a local postal worker I asked along the way responded with a puzzled “Hmm?” Just as I was about to give up, I spotted a staircase purely on instinct. Climbing it led me straight to the shrine!
It felt like a mystical experience, as if I was being called by the deity.
Learning About Dams at the Okutama Water and Green Interaction Center
You can learn about the history and functions of the dam through a 3D movie. What stood out the most was an essay written by a local elementary school student, which was truly moving.
Greeting you at the entrance is Wasapii, the mascot who enthusiastically promotes Okutama Town with its whole being!
A map showcasing the water flow from Lake Okutama to Tokyo Bay
And then, it was time for the much-anticipated lunch break.
Dam Curry:The presentation recreated a realistic dam, and the taste was top-notch.
The explanation was provided on their website.
Venison Bolognese:The mildly sweet venison pairs perfectly with the sauce!
Seiryu Set Meal:Crispy Fried Rainbow Trout** and **Mountain Trout Wrapped with Plum and Shiso are the highlights of the Seiryu (Clear Stream) Point!
A moment of reflection on the dam and its history during a post-meal stroll.
After learning all about the dam at the Okutama Water and Green Interaction Center, it was time for a little post-meal stroll to get moving!
The Monument of "Lake-bottom Homeland"
A song expressing the sorrow and pride of the villagers submerged by the dam was introduced, and when I listened to it on YouTube, the nostalgic atmosphere of the early Showa era really came through.
Ogouchi Dam Observation Deck
As you climb to the observation deck, a breathtaking panoramic view unfolds before you.
We happened to witness a helicopter take off from the helipad! It was an exciting scene that’s not something you see every day.
Near the entrance of the "Ikoi no Michi" (Path of Relaxation), there is a monument dedicated to honoring those who lost their lives during the construction of the dam.
This place reminds us of the immense effort and sacrifices made by many people behind this grand project.
Stroll Along the Ikoi no Michi (Path of Relaxation)
The final stop was the "Ikoi no Michi." This time, we turned back quickly, but if it weren't for the ongoing construction, you could enjoy a 12km walking path along Lake Okutama. It’s the perfect spot for a refreshing lakeside stroll! Next time, once the construction is finished, I’m planning to walk the full 12km—full speed ahead!?
Okutama Lake Rest Center Marui-tei
While touring the autumn foliage spots, I stopped by "Marui-tei," which I had checked out in advance, and grabbed some mountain vegetable rice (sansai kamameshi) to take out.
The spacious interior was empty, creating a quiet and relaxed atmosphere. The Okutama area is so peaceful with few people around, making it feel like a luxurious escape.
Souvenir Hunting at Kosuge Roadside Station
At the "Kosuge Roadside Station," a stop for souvenir hunting, I spotted a banner for Chā-chan Manjū! To my luck, I was able to buy the last Chā-dora! What a fortunate find!
さらに、珍しい「ひまらやヒラタケ」や地元の日本酒「澤乃井」をお試しワンカップで購入。温めた日本酒と山菜釜飯の組み合わせは最高の晩ご飯になりました。「もっと買えばよかった…」と後悔するほどの美味しさ。
The finale was a cozy and relaxing time at Kosuge no Yu
The trip ended with a refreshing soak at the highly alkaline hot spring, **Kosuge no Yu**. The interior, adorned with Christmas decorations, created a warm and inviting atmosphere, soothing both body and mind.
TabiJun's Tip
Okutama is a nature-rich area, but at night, there are few streetlights, and the mountain roads continue. It's recommended to head back before it gets dark.
Be sure to visit Lake Okutama during the autumn foliage season!
The journey continues... Wishing you all a wonderful trip!Tabijun
