Hinohara Tokyo Citizens’ Forest

Green plants begin budding in May in Okutama, as the area welcomes the most beautiful season of the year. The Hinohara Tokyo Citizens’ Forest is located halfway up Mt. Mito, the highest peak among the three mountains in Okutama . It is home to vast forest facilities where people from beginners to expert walkers can enjoy a wide variety of hiking courses.
The most recommended course is the “Waterfall Route Course ,” which is also known as “Therapy Road.” “Forest therapy” refers to scientifically explaining the effects of walking through forests and using them for one’s health. The Waterfall Route is the first place in Tokyo that has been authorized as a “Forest Therapy Road.” It has a total length of one kilometer and takes 20 minutes each way. Simple courses that everyone from children to the elderly can enjoy feature a wide variety of scenery – including a viewing platform with beautiful views and the Mito Otaki Waterfall – which will surely be satisfying to all. Why not trying walking on the paths, which are spread with wood chips, while immersing yourself in the atmosphere of the green Japanese beech trees ?

Waterfall Route Course
Forest Building ⇒ Waterfall Route ⇒ Mito Otake Waterfall ⇒ Waterfall Route ⇒ Forest Building (for walking, approximately 1 hour)
http://www.hinohara-mori.jp/　(Course map, etc.)

“Therapy Road” is a walking path that has been authorized by the Forest Therapy Society . Authorization means that data regarding the path has been verified, including relaxing effects such as reducing stress as well as lowering blood pressure and soothing the mind.