Okutama Onsen Moegi-no-Yu

Tucked into the mountains of Okutama at the far western edge of Tokyo, Moegi-no-Yu is an easygoing day-trip hot spring just a ten-minute walk from JR Okutama Station. The water is drawn from one of Japan's oldest geological layers, and you can soak while gazing down over the gorge of the Tama River. It is the kind of place you want to drop into on the way home from a hike or a day by the water.

Highlights

- Open-air baths with sweeping views of the Tama River and the ridgelines beyond - A smooth, slightly silky source water that feels gentle on the skin - A calm interior with the warmth of natural wood - A dining area serving dishes made with mountain ingredients from Okutama

Enjoying the Seasons

In spring the pale green of fresh buds fills the valley, in summer a cool breeze drifts up the gorge, and in autumn the slopes blaze with red and gold, all framed by the bathtub view. In winter the crisp air makes the mountain scenery beyond the rising steam feel especially quiet and beautiful.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: 119-1 Hikawa, Okutama, Nishitama District, Tokyo - Access: about a 10-minute walk from Okutama Station on the JR Ome Line - Closed: Mondays (the following day if Monday is a holiday) - A day-use facility with open-air baths, indoor baths, and a dining area

A Quick Tip

Weekends and the autumn foliage season can get busy, so aim for early morning or the quieter early evening hours. Although the station is close, there is an uphill stretch, so comfortable walking shoes are a good idea.