Autumn Getaway to Tokyo’s Countryside – A Romantic Tapestry of Red Leaves and Culture

As autumn gently paints Tokyo’s streets, the surrounding mountains and historic towns step into their most enchanting season. The crisp air carries the fragrance of fallen leaves, while golden ginkgo and fiery maple trees dress the landscape in vivid hues. The countryside near Tokyo is not only a paradise for photographers but also the perfect destination for travelers seeking a harmonious blend of culture and nature. Mt. Takao – A Sacred Mountain of Faith and Autumn Splendor Mt. Takao has been revered as a sacred mountain for over 1,300 years, home to Yakuoin Temple and the legendary Tengu deity. Serving as both a spiritual retreat and Tokyo’s “backyard,” it offers hiking trails lined with golden leaves in autumn. Visitors can take the cable car or hike to the summit for sweeping views of the Kanto Plain and, on clear days, Mt. Fuji. Every November, the Takao Autumn Leaves Festival fills the mountain with cultural performances, food stalls, and seasonal treats such as soba noodles and miso-dango. Okutama – Echoes of Edo Along Rivers and Mountains Located at Tokyo’s western edge, Okutama was once an important Edo-period post town and forestry hub. Today, it preserves its ancient trails and traditional settlements.…