Discover Tokyo's Mountain Roots: History, Culture & Nature

Tokyo , Japan

Discover Tokyo's Mountain Roots: History, Culture & Nature

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About this experience

In the upstream area of the Akigawa, lies Hinohara Village (Hinohara-mura), the only village in Tokyo's terrestrial area. Deep within, atop a ridge that surpasses an elevation of 700 meters, stands the ancient farmhouse known as the "Former Kobayashi House".

The untouched landscapes of the mountainous settlements in Hinohara Village. This is a place that can be said to embody the essence of Hinohara Village's mountain communities, where people have relied on the rich bounty of the mountains since ancient times.

The carefully restored ancient house we will visit, from the mid-Edo period, showcases the lifestyle of charcoal-making villagers. This house is accessible via a special mountain monorail.

This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the hidden lives and history of the Akigawa Valley and Hinohara Village.

Available options

Discover Tokyo's Mountain Roots: History, Culture & Nature

What's included

Guide fee

The most popular and famous lunch box in the area, made with local ingredients

Detailed itinerary

You can pass through the splendid thatched gate, see the giant ginko tree, and listen to explanations about the temple's history.

A large 250-year-old traditional house (village headman) and water shed were relocated from the Nishitama region (western Tokyo) to become a restaurant, cafe, and garden that blends in with nature. From the premises, you can descend to the waterside of Tokyo's pure Akigawa River and enjoy the beauty of the valley.
You can imagine the simple yet prosperous lives of the Japanese of the past, who lived in harmony with nature.
(You will receive the most highly acclaimed bento lunch box in the area, made with local ingredients.)

After traveling by shuttle bus deep into Hinohara Village, the only village on land in Tokyo, we take the mountain monorail up a steep slope with a maximum gradient of 43 degrees to the Kobayashi Family Residence, an "old house in the sky" at an altitude of 700m.
The locals will talk to you about the construction of this old house and the life of the villagers in the past. Any questions you may have will be answered in a friendly manner.
We sit on the veranda of an old house and enjoy our lunch with a village feel.
It takes about 10 minutes to walk one way along a mountain path that was once a residential route to the "neighbor's" house, where you can draw water from a spring that gushes out from the base of an old cedar tree and make and drink coffee.

It's a 30-minute easy hike round trip to Hossawa Falls, a waterfall that is said to be inhabited by a giant snake.
You'll also stop by a local shop and get a glimpse of modern village life.

You will experience a foot bath at Akigawa Valley Seono-no-yu, a hot spring famous for making your skin smooth.
(Those who wish can also take a hot spring bath for an additional hour.)

What's not included

Please bring your own drinks if you wish to drink them during the tour

towel

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The remaining hours are allotted for the travel time

Meeting point

It is a shop just across the intersection in front of JR Musashi-Itsukaichi Station.

About Tokyo

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a bustling metropolis where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with cutting-edge technology. Known for its vibrant districts, world-class dining, and rich cultural heritage, Tokyo offers an unparalleled urban experience.

Top Attractions

Senso-ji Temple

Tokyo's oldest temple, known for its impressive Kaminarimon Gate and bustling Nakamise shopping street.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (small fee for some areas)

Shibuya Crossing

The world's busiest pedestrian crossing, surrounded by neon lights, shops, and restaurants.

Cultural/Entertainment 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (¥2,200 for Shibuya Sky)

Meiji Shrine

A serene Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, surrounded by a beautiful forest.

Historical/Religious 1 hour Free

Tokyo Skytree

The tallest tower in Japan, offering stunning views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture/Entertainment 2-3 hours ¥2,100-¥3,100

Ueno Park

A large public park with museums, temples, and beautiful cherry blossom trees in spring.

Nature/Cultural 2-3 hours Free (fees for attractions within the park)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sushi

Fresh raw fish served over vinegared rice, a must-try in Tokyo.

Dinner Contains fish and seafood, may contain allergens.

Ramen

Noodle soup with various broths and toppings, a popular comfort food.

Lunch/Dinner Can be vegetarian/vegan-friendly with modifications.

Tempura

Deep-fried seafood and vegetables, known for its crispy texture.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood, may contain allergens.

Sukiyaki

Hot pot dish with thinly sliced beef and vegetables cooked in a sweet soy-based broth.

Dinner Contains beef, can be made vegetarian with tofu.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Biking along the Sumida River Zorbing at Odaiba Seaside Park Onsen (hot spring) bathing in Hakone Tea ceremonies in traditional tea houses Meditation at temples and shrines Traditional tea ceremonies Calligraphy and ikebana (flower arranging) workshops

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn)

These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. However, these are also the busiest times with higher tourist volumes.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Tokyo is one of the safest major cities in the world, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public safety.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis and official guides
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services

Getting there

By air

Narita International Airport • 57.5 km from city center
Haneda Airport • 14.3 km from city center

By train

Tokyo Station, Shinagawa Station

By bus

Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is efficient, clean, and covers most of the city. It is the best way to get around Tokyo.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Shibuya Shinjuku Asakusa Ginza Akihabara

Day trips

Nikko

120 km from Tokyo • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning shrines, temples, and natural beauty.

Kamakura

50 km from Tokyo • Full day

A coastal town known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha.

Hakone

90 km from Tokyo • Full day or overnight

A hot spring resort town known for its scenic views of Mount Fuji and traditional ryokan (inns).

Festivals

Sanno Matsuri • June (dates vary) Sanja Matsuri • May (third weekend) Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival • July (last Saturday)

Pro tips

Get a Suica or Pasmo IC card for easy payments on public transportation and in convenience stores
Learn basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
Use Google Maps or Japan Transit Planner for navigation and real-time train schedules
Carry cash for small shops, markets, and rural areas, as some places may not accept credit cards
Respect local customs and etiquette, such as removing your shoes when entering a home or traditional restaurant