Nestled in the foothills of the Okutama Mountains of western Tokyo, just an hour away from central Tokyo, is the little-known yet beautiful city of Akiruno. Despite its close proximity, the moment you arrive in Akiruno City, it instantly feels as if you’ve been transported to a completely different part of the country far away from the bustling streets of Tokyo. With its tranquil and scenic views, Akiruno City is a nature lover’s dream, offering many enjoyable activities such as fishing, hiking, camping. If you’re in the mood to experience a traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring), Akigawa Valley Seoto-no-Yu Spa is a popular go-to facility where you can relax in a bath filled with natural alkaline spring water while taking in the beautiful natural surroundings. For those who are a bit more adventurous, the Otake Limestone Cave at the foot of Mount Mitake, which is designated as a Tokyo Natural Monument, offers visitors a chance to explore the cave's mystical, well-preserved limestone formations. There are also many seasonal events held in Akiruno City, including various shrine festivals, fireworks festivals and cherry blossom viewing events. The most popular attraction of Akiruno City, however, is the Akigawa Valley, one of Tokyo's most beautiful and nature-filled getaway spots.

Located directly across from Musashi Itsukaichi Station on the JR Itsukaichi Line is a charming little store called Tokyo Urayama Base. Owned and operated by a lovely husband-and-wife team, Jinken and Michiko, Tokyo Urayama Base serves as a gateway to the many scenic spots of Akigawa Valley and Akigawa River. Here, you can rent bicycles (electric bicycles are also available for beginner cyclists), choose from a wide range of guided tours, or just sit down and relax at the cafe and enjoy a cup of coffee and appetizing dishes such as their popular homemade Cuban sandwiches and chicken and vegetable curry rice. There is even a shower and changing room located inside the store for those who wish to feel refreshed after a long day. Visitors are also provided with a special map that shows various hidden locations that even many locals don’t know about, so you can create your very own tailor-made itinerary. Visitors are advised to book their bicycles and guided tours in advance. While the Akigawa Valley is enjoyable throughout the year, visiting during the fall season, when the autumn leaves turns the entire region into a beautiful red and yellow landscape, is highly recommended.

From there, you can either cycle or drive along the river to the recommended spot listed in the map, where you can enjoy “chairing,” one of the popular activities offered by Tokyo Urayama Base. Chairing, as the name suggests, involves setting up chairs in any preferred area and relaxing while taking in the beautiful scenic views. The foldable chairs can also be rented at Tokyo Urayama Base, so you can arrive empty-handed without having to worry about bringing any supplies of your own. One of the first things you notice when you walk down and through the valley is how quiet it is, with the sounds of the wind blowing through the trees and the crystal clear spring water flowing down the river creating a peaceful melody that lets you clear your mind and be at one with nature.

One of the options for the guided tours offered by Tokyo Urayama Base (English tours are also available) is a unique river trekking experience at a secret waterfall nestled in at the end of the valley. Once you reach the destination, you’ll want to change into the wading pants that can also be rented at Tokyo Urayama Base to keep your clothes dry as you continue to hike along the river. After hiking for about 10 to 15 minutes, you’ll finally reach the stunning waterfall, which is absolutely worth the trek. You can easily spend hours sitting on a nearby fallen log or on the side of the river, listening to the splashing sound of the waterfall and breathing in the fresh air.

There are countless other areas to visit and enjoy along the 20 km-long valley across the Akigawa River, including suspension bridges that offer scenic views from above, natural footbaths and temples along the way, and it is definitely an experience that you would never be able to encounter in central Tokyo. For those who wish to enjoy a relaxing moment that is unlike the bustle of the city, this fantastic region located just an hour away is the perfect place to visit for a day trip.