Okutama: Tokyo’s Twisty Escape
At a stop on route 206 overlooking Okutama
Okutama Introduction
An hour and a half motorcycle ride from Tokyo's center is Okutama. It's Tokyo's escape from the concrete jungle, with mountains, lakes, and outdoor activities. And we know as motorcyclists that where there are mountains, there are twisty roads. Route 206 is the crown jewel of Okutama's riding roads, winding its way through lush forests and offering breathtaking views. But how do you get there?
Jump to a section
Map Of Okutama
How to get to Okutama
Taking a quick glance at the map of Okutama reveals route 411 snaking along the Tama River east-west from Ome to Koshu.
411 East Entrance
For those living in Tokyo, at first glance it may make sense to take 411 from Ome. If you do, the first sightseeing highlight would be the sacred mountain of Mt. Mitake and Mitake Shrine. Legend says Yamato Takeru, a warrior prince, fought an evil demon in the forest of Mt Mitake. The demon turned itself into a dense fog which made Takeru lose his way. A white wolf appeared and guided Takeru out of the fog and to safety. Mitake Shrine was built to honor wolves and for continual protection for the people of the area.
The evil fog that Takeru fought in the past is still present today. It has multiplied into many slow, dense, 4-wheeled cagers that crawl at a snail's pace, creating traffic jams. The eastern side of 411 also has tunnel after tunnel. They block your view of the landscape adding to the dicombobulated haze.
The best time to travel the eastern part of 411 from Ome would be early in the morning, while there is no traffic. So head out early, or you will find yourself chanting mantras to the white wolf to clear up traffic!
411 West Entrance
My preferred way to enter Okutama is from the west out of Koshu on 411 for two reasons. The first being that it passes by the Fruit Line, where I stop to get fresh grapes, cherries, or whatever fruits are in season at the time.
The second reason is that 411 in this direction provides two lanes of traffic for uphill travel so you don’t end up getting stuck behind slow-moving vehicles. The Daibosatsu section of 411 is particularly noteworthy for its wide sweeping curves that offer stunning mountain vistas. Once 411 reaches the Taba River, it becomes a scenic canyon ride to Okutama Lake. Stop by Tabayama Fishing Village, where you can fish for your own lunch and have it cooked right on the spot.
Southern Entrance from 139
If traveling all the way west to Koshu is not your fancy, then route 139 out of Otsuki in the south is a good alternative. This north-south road travels along the Kazuno River, passing sleepy towns as it climbs towards Okutama. The road is smooth, has a good pace of sweepers, and a scenic view of Fukashiro Lake. Visit the Maglev exhibition center near Otsuki to watch the new maglev whizz by and learn the sorcery of levitating trains.
Quickie 33
If I’m short on time, I’ll ride up from Uenohara on route 33 which will take me directly to the fun stuff on 206. However, entering from the south will lead me to doubling back on the 206 since I like riding it from the north. It’s not a bad ride for a quick blast to the hills to clear my mind.
Wham, Bam, Thank you Ma’am, for this motorcycle ride so glam! Wind in my hair, sun on my face, No other feeling can truly replace!
No matter how you enter Okutama, I hope you'll enjoy your time there. It's Tokyo's backyard. Reconnect with nature, and yourself.
Roads to Ride
206
Any motorcyclist visiting Tokyo must ride Route 206 Shuyuro, or "Fun-Loop-Road." This 19.7-kilometer road links Ome-Kaido (Route 411) to Hinohara Village and offers a thrilling, unforgettable ride.
The best part is between Mito Bridge and the Hinohara Tokyo Citizens' Forest rest stop. With its smooth, winding surface and exhilarating curves, this stretch of road is a true adrenaline junkie's paradise. On weekends, expect a steady stream of fellow riders scraping the pavement as they tackle the challenging corners.
While Shuyuro is undeniably fun, it's important to exercise caution. Police patrols are known to frequent the area, and in the event of an accident, reaching a hospital could take over two hours. Always ride defensively and prioritize your safety.
After conquering the twists and turns of Shuyuro, be sure to stop at the Hinohara Tokyo Citizens' Forest rest stop. Here, you'll find a restaurant, a woodworking shop, and ample parking, making it a great place to relax and share your riding experiences with other riders.
Gates open:
April 1 - Sept 30 8:00am - 7:00pm
Oct 1 - March 31st 9:00am - 6:00pm
411
As the primary road through Okutama, Route 411 connects Hachioji to the west and Kofu to the east. While it's a convenient route, it's worth noting that traffic congestion can be an issue, particularly on the eastern section between Okutama Lake and Ome. This part of the road also features many tunnels, which can obscure the scenic views.
18
A short 6km twisty run through the forest connecting 411 to 139. The road continues onwards towards 33 in the south, passing through small villages, but I hardly take it since it’s much more fun taking 206 in the same direction.
139
See above
33
At the south end of 206 intersects with 33, another twisty road that passes through a few small villages to Akiruno. It’s a fun road if you are lucky to have it all to yourself, if not, it can be a drag following a slow car. It’s one of those make or break roads depending on traffic.
Fruits Line in Koshu
On the outterim of Koshu and Kofu city is a road with many fruit orchids known as the fruits line. The eastern edge Fruit Line connects to 411 making it a perfect stop to get some fresh fruit.
Sightseeing Spots
Nippara Limestone Cave is the largest limestone cave in the Kanto region, spanning 1.2 kilometers in length and reaching a depth of 134 meters. The cave is adorned with impressive stalagmites and stalactites, formed over thousands of years by the slow dripping of mineral-rich water. Inside, the temperature remains a constant 11 degrees Celsius throughout the year, providing a refreshing escape from the summer heat. Open everyday 9-5pm. Fee: 800 adults
Mugiyama Floating Bridge and Tozura Floating Bridge are both unique water crossing experiences on pontoon bridges constructed using floating drum barrels. Tozura Floating Bridge is particularly convenient, with a parking lot located directly in front of the bridge. For those visiting Mugiyama Floating Bridge, a short 10-minute walk from the parking lot is required. Both bridges are free to access, making them a budget-friendly addition to any motorcycle journey.
Kanoto Rock offers a hike through a miniature gorge for those seeking a more adventurous experience. This 60-meter trail features cascading waterfalls, fixed ladders, and chains along the gorge wall, providing a thrilling and immersive experience. A short 60m hike through a miniature gorge with waterfalls, fixed ladders and chains along the gorge wall. It’s free and there’s parking right next to it.
Shiromaru Dam isn't your average dam. It's a testament to Japanese engineering ingenuity, housing the country's longest fish ladder. This eco-friendly feature allows fish to migrate through the dam and continue their upstream journey, ensuring the health of the surrounding ecosystem. It’s free and open to the public from April to November. Hours: 10:00 - 16:00 on weekends, holidays, and Wednesdays.
Kobayashi Family Residence is a traditional home built over 300 years ago. Step back in time and see how people lived in harmony with nature in the Edo period. There is a special monorail that you can ride to get up to the residence or take the hiking trail. It’s free, but advance notice is required to ride the monorail.
Fishing spots throughout the region offer rental equipment, including fishing poles and bait, without the need to carry more gear on your motorcycle. You are charged based on the number of fish you catch. Many of these spots offer on-site cooking services, allowing you to savor your freshly caught fish as a delicious meal. Costs range between 1,000 yen for rental gear and catching 1 fish. Each additional fish caught costs, on average, 400 yen. Prices differ at each location. See map for locations.
Furusato Mountain Village is a craft center for wood work, stone work, and pottery. Each costs 500 yen to experience. Hours: 9:30 - 15:00.
Ryujin Falls is a waterfall where you experience “takigyo”, a monk guided meditation under a waterfall. Advanced reservation is required. Or just go for a soak on your own anytime.
