Overview
A natural wonderland, Akiruno City is home to the brilliantly beautiful Akigawa Valley, a great place to go hiking, swimming and location of the fabulous Ishibune Bridge and Otake Limestone Caves. The city also features a huge water park in Tokyo Summerland, the rustic Kotoku-ji Temple and the quirky Fukuzawa Chiisana Museum.
Kotoku-ji Temple
Extraordinarily idyllic, Kotoku-ji Temple was first established in the 14th century and is famous for its majestic moss-covered sanmon multi-storied gate. Invigorating with the fresh air of its mountain surrounds, autumn is a particularly lovely time to visit courtesy of the temple's ginkgo trees.
A 25-minute walk from Musashi-Itsukaichi Station on the JR Itsukaichi Line.
Fukuzawa Chiisana Museum
An art gallery showcasing the works of sculptor Tomonaga Akimitsu, the Fukuzawa Chiisana Museum is as about as quirky as you can get. Almost fairy tale in look, Akimitsu built and designed the museum himself. Exiting the station, a series of gnomes guide visitors towards the museum.
A 40-minute walk or 10 minutes by car from Musashi-Itsukaichi Station on the JR Itsukaichi Line.
Akigawa Valley
With its stunningly beautiful autumn leaves, Akigawa Valley is a natural scenic spot worth every effort to visit. One of the area's prime go-to spots, the valley is well known for its Ishibune Bridge, the valley features plenty of chances for outdoor activities including swimming, hiking and camping.
A 10-minute bus ride from Musashi-Itsukaichi Station on the JR Itsukaichi Line.
Tokyo Summerland
A huge water park, Tokyo Summerland is an absolutely great way to spend the day beating off the summer heat. Along with its massive pools, slides, and rides, the park also features a 40m free fall waterslide and a 650m long 'river'. A word of advice, however, tattoos are strictly prohibited.
A 10-minute bus ride from Akigawa Station on the JR Itsukaichi Line.
