Heartwarming Dishes Among Tokyo’s Mystical Mountains and Countryside

Another side of Tokyo, abound with nature and history, awaits west of its center. Here, you’ll find the great outdoors of Mt. Takao and the timeless satoyama landscape of Musashimurayama City, where you can reflect on the local history and culture, indulge in the bounties of the land, and relax.

Begin your Hachioji journey with a visit to Mt. Takao, a leisure destination that has been popular for ages. On your way up, savor soba noodles topped with grated yam and take in the views. Then, head down the mountain and warm up with a sweet red bean soup served with mochi. To finish off your trip, enjoy seasonal food grilled carefully over a traditional hearth.

If you head to Musashimurayama City, you’ll come face-to-face with a rural landscape reminiscent of the Japan of old. Explore the hills and bamboo groves of a local park, then visit a thatched-roof folk house and get a feel for life in the Edo Period (1603–1868), when people lived in harmony with nature. Finally, try some rich Murayama Kate Udon noodles, made with locally grown wheat and seasonal vegetables, and you’ll come to understand the depth of the local food culture.

DISCOVERING TOKYO puts the spotlight on various recommended spots and experiences introduced by Tokyo’s many municipalities. Come take in the beautiful scenery alongside traditional flavors.