Left: Ishibunebashi Bridge at Akigawa Valley in Akiruno, Tokyo Right: A view from Ishibunebashi Bridge at Akigawa Valley in Akiruno, Tokyo | The Japan News/Asia News Network
TOKYO — Lush green mountains and crystal-clear waters greet visitors to Akigawa Valley, a mere hour by train or car from central Tokyo. Accessible from Musashi-Itsukaichi Station in the western Tokyo city of Akiruno, the valley is a relaxing retreat where people can enjoy such outdoor activities as hiking, fishing, camping and barbecuing. On weekends and holidays, local groups run nature schools for children.
After spending a day in the great outdoors, soaking in the onsen hot springs at Akigawa Keikoku Seoto-no-yu Spa can be refreshing and relaxing. The facility, which was built using local lumber, boasts indoor and open-air baths and saunas that offer fantastic views of the valley.
Ishibunebashi Bridge — a pedestrian suspension bridge close to the spa — also affords spectacular views of the valley, which is transformed into a sea of vivid reds and golden yellows when the leaves change color in the fall.
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