Top 10 Scenic Vistas to Explore in Tokyo's Natural Terrain
Wanna take a break from the city life and enjoy nature in Tokyo**? You might think that Tokyo is just a massive urban jungle, but there are plenty of spots where you can still enjoy its beautiful landscapes and sunlight. Here's a list of the top 10 nature spots to visit in Tokyo and a bit further away!
Tokyo Nature Spots
1. Todoroki Valley
Located in Setagaya ward, Todoroki Valley is the only valley in central Tokyo. It's just a short 20-minute train ride from Shibuya, making it one of the most accessible nature spots in Tokyo. With a walking trail along the river, you'll find yourself surrounded by nature for about a kilometer. There's also a traditional Japanese garden and a cozy café to grab a drink or something to eat.
How to get there:
- 3-minute walk from Todoroki Station (Tokyu-Ooimachi line)
- Take the Tokyu-Toyoko line from Shibuya, then transfer to Tokyu-Ooimachi line at Jiyugaoka Station
2. Mt. Takao
Mt. Takao is a lovely mountain close to Tokyo, great for a fun hike! It's 599 meters high, and there are seven hiking trails, each catering to different levels of difficulty. You can even take a cable car or chairlift if you prefer not to hike the full trail. While climbing, you'll see nature in all its glory, including the famous temple, "Yakuoin." Make a stop at the observatory for an amazing view!
How to get there:
- From Shinjuku station, take either the Keio Line or JR Chuo Line to Takaosanguchi Station
- Walk for 5 minutes from there to reach the hiking trails or cable car/ chairlift station
3. Meiji Shrine
Meiji Shrine is a popular Shinto shrine dedicated to the emperor Meiji and empress Shoken. The grounds are a serene forest, containing 170,000 trees donated from all over Japan. At the entrance, you'll find a beautiful large Torii gate.
How to get there:
- 2-3 minutes on foot from Harajuku station
More Nature Spots in Tokyo
For more nature spots in Tokyo, check out our article on the best parks in Tokyo!
Beyond Tokyo
For those looking for a little more adventure, here are some nature spots just outside Tokyo:
1. Akigawa Valley
Akigawa Valley is surrounded by mountains, rivers, and forests and provides a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the natural environment through four seasons. Autumn leaves are particularly gorgeous here!
How to get there:
- 60-minute train ride from Tokyo's central area (Chuo Line)
2. Okutama Area
Okutama is in the western part of Tokyo and offers a beautiful, unexplored landscape. Head to Lake Okutama, created by a dam, for a stunning view!
How to get there:
- Almost 2-hour train ride from central Tokyo (Chuo Line)
If you'd like a guided hike up Mount Takao or a kayaking experience in Okutama, consider hiring a guide!
Visit our website for more tours in Tokyo and articles you might like!
Experiencing the culture and beauty of nature in Tokyo can be a serene escape from the bustling city life. If you're interested in exploring beyond the urban landscape, consider these top 10 nature spots that cater to various levels of adventure.
Todoroki Valley, a short train ride from Shibuya, invites you to immerse yourself in nature for about a kilometer along the river. You can also unwind at a traditional Japanese garden or savor a drink and meal at the café.
Alternatively, Mt. Takao offers an enjoyable hike for all levels, with seven hiking trails and breathtaking views at the observatory. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the historic temple, Yakuoin.
Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the emperor Meiji and empress Shoken, is a popular spot featuring a serene forest with 170,000 trees donated from across Japan.
For even more nature experiences in Tokyo, check out our article on the best parks in the city.
If you're looking to venture further, Akigawa Valley, just an hour's train ride from central Tokyo, presents a picturesque landscape with stunning autumn leaves. Alternatively, Okutama, in the western part of Tokyo, offers a scenic and less-explored landscape, with Lake Okutama providing a striking view.
To make the most of these locations, consider hiring a guide for a guided hike up Mount Takao or a kayaking experience in Okutama. For more tours, articles, and events surrounding Tokyo's lifestyle, home-and-garden, and food culture, visit our website. Don't miss out on the unique experiences of the various seasonal events happening throughout Tokyo and its surroundings, such as festivals, autumn leaves settings, and traditional kimono rentals that let you immerse yourself in Japan's rich history and traditions.
