Located in Tokyo’s Tama area, where THE ROAD RACE TOKYO TAMA 2025 was held, Mitake Valley is a top destination known for its stunning natural beauty. The ever-changing scenery throughout the four seasons, shaped by the crystal-clear waters of the Tama River, creates a picturesque landscape that never fails to captivate, no matter how many times you visit. This area is not only perfect for a refreshing nature walk or riverside fun but also offers cultural experiences such as touring a sake brewery, visiting a traditional indigo dyeing workshop, or appreciating Japanese paintings at a riverside art museum. Here’s a recommended route to fully immerse yourself in the charm of Western Tokyo.
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Start from JR Ome Station ➡ Approx. 30 min walk ➡ Japanese Indigo Dyeing Studio Kosoen ➡ Approx. 30 min walk ➡ Take the JR Ome Line from Ome Station to Sawai Station ➡ Approx. 3 min walk ➡ Ozawa Sake Brewery ➡ Approx. 2 min walk ➡ Sawanoien Garden ➡ Approx. 20 min walk ➡ Mitake Valley ➡ Approx. 5 min walk ➡ Gyokudo Art Museum
Japanese Indigo Dyeing Studio Kosoen
Japanese Indigo Dyeing Studio Kosoen preserves the traditional Japanese indigo dyeing method known as “Tennenai-aku-hakko-date”, a natural fermentation technique passed down since the Edo period. This process uses no synthetic chemicals and produces indigo-dyed pieces in deep, timeless and striking shades of blue.
At the studio, visitors can observe artisans at work and browse a variety of hand-dyed products, including clothing, scarves, and bags, available in the studio’s shop. Workshops are also available by reservation, where you can try your hand at dyeing under the careful guidance of skilled artisans.
Discover the beauty of indigo dyeing, where centuries-old tradition meets modern design sensibilities.
Address: 8-200 Nagabuchi, Ome City, Tokyo
https://kosoen.com/eng
Ozawa Sake Brewery
Founded in 1702, Ozawa Sake Brewery uses the pure spring waters of the Tama River to produce its signature sake, Sawanoi. Several historical buildings from the Edo and Meiji periods still stand today.
Visitors can take a guided tour (reservation required) to learn about the brewery’s history and sake-making process, including a sake tasting with a custom-designed ochoko (drinking cup for sake). Highly popular with visitors, a visit will offer a unique glimpse into 300 years of sake craftsmanship, set in a lush and tranquil natural environment.
Immerse all five senses in the refined craft of sake-making amid natural beauty!
Address: 2-770 Sawai, Ome City, Tokyo
https://www.sawanoi-sake.com/en/
Sawanoien Garden
This scenic garden run by Ozawa Sake Brewery overlooks the Tama River and offers a relaxing space to enjoy nature and local food.
Seasonal menu includes zaru soba, yuba udon, oden, amazake, and shaved ice. Popular souvenirs include freshly made uno-hana manju and sake manju (small Japanese buns).
You can also purchase freshly brewed sake by weight, straight from the tank. A serene retreat where you can savor the local sake ‘Sawanoi’ and a delicious meal, all while being soothed by the gentle murmur of a mountain stream and the beauty of the surrounding nature.
Address: 2-770 Sawai, Ome City, Tokyo
https://www.sawanoi-sake.com/en/group-guide/#garden
Mitake Valley
Mitake Valley, recognized as one of Japan’s “100 Remarkable Waters”, is known for its crystal-clear river and dramatic gorge views that attract nature lovers year-round. Just about 90 minutes from central Tokyo by train and a short walk from JR Mitake Station, this easily accessible spot is perfect for a quick escape into nature.
A well-maintained 4 km riverside walking trail makes it ideal for a leisurely stroll. The landscape transforms through seasonal colors, from fresh spring greens to vibrant foliage in autumn, offering breathtaking views year-round.
In addition to its scenic charm, it is also well-known for river activities offering everything from canoeing, rafting and fishing to rock climbing.
Address: Mitake, Ome City, Tokyo
https://www.kankyo1.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/naturepark/english/know/park/introduction/kokuritsu/chichibu/mitake/tourism.html
Gyokudo Art Museum
The Gyokudo Art Museum was established in 1961 to commemorate Gyokudo Kawai, a leading figure in modern nihonga (Japanese-style painting), who spent the final 12 years of his life from age 72 to 84 in Mitake, Ome City, creating many of his later masterpieces.
The museum holds a collection of around 300 works, ranging from sketches drawn in his teens to pieces completed in his final years. The exhibitions rotate six times a year, each highlighting the seasonal beauty of nature. His works delicately depict the landscapes, plants, and wildlife of Mitake using fine brushwork and subtle color, blending traditional nihonga style with a personal artistic touch. In addition to the recreated version of Gyokudo’s studio, the museum also features a traditional karesansui (dry landscape) garden where visitors can experience the essence of Japanese aesthetics.
Address: 1-75 Mitake, Ome City, Tokyo
http://www.gyokudo.jp/guide_english.html
