Explore Plan 3

Escaping the suffocating Tokyo to the
Japanese countryside.

I came to Japan in my teens. The 24-hour buzzing metropolis was stimulating and fun. Thanks to my relentless pursuit of learning Japanese, I am now entrusted with managing a restaurant. However, being deeply immersed in the city, I sometimes long for the quiet, beautiful nature—clean air, the scent of forests, and the sounds of birds—similar to my hometown in Kyrgyzstan. Upon hearing about the untouched nature here, I decided to visit “Oze.”

Riding the Train and Bus to the Trailhead

I took the Tobu Limited Express from Asakusa Station, a tourist hotspot in Tokyo, and got off at Aizutajima Station. After switching to the Aizu bus, I traveled for about five hours. This time, I chose an easy course that takes about 70 minutes on foot from the trailhead to the lodge by the lakeside. You can walk it in regular sneakers. Although Oze has untouched nature, it is also accessible. The charm of Oze lies in having courses suitable for beginners and serious peak hunts.

As a side note, I have experience climbing the famous Mt. Fuji and Kanagawa's Oyama, a mountain often climbed by trekking enthusiasts in Tokyo. These mountains, known for their great views, attract many people. Am I the only one who doesn't want to feel like I'm in the Shibuya scramble crossing in the midst of nature?

First, I walked for 30 minutes through the
forest.

The hike starts with a 30-minute climb and descent through a forest hill. If you feel out of breath, please stop and take a deep breath. The scent of conifers will fill your lungs. Japan's rain-soaked forests are fresh and lush, with aromas that are not overpowering, unlike those in Kyrgyzstan. I think it embodies Japan. Along the path, some trees are marked with red lines, which serve as guides when snow accumulates.

In spring and summer, Oze Wetland turns into a natural garden.

With a long winter in Oze, flowers bloom simultaneously during the short spring and summer. They sprout, flower, and seed during the snow-free period. However, due to climate change, the wild deer population has increased, resulting in a decrease in valuable flora and fauna. Measures are currently being implemented, like fencing areas such as Oze Wetland to prevent deer from entering.

Chōzō Lodge Store Various souvenirs are sold for visitors.

You can enjoy cold drinks and coffee made from meltwater. There is also a café in the annex where you can have pizza, curry, and cake. I saw people happily enjoying lunch beer.

Oze-numa Visitor Center Displays the nature
of Oze.

There are videos, taxidermy of animals, and panels showing bird sounds. I had the experience of "bokka," which involves carrying loads. Urban elementary and middle school students learn outdoors at places like this.

I stayed at the lodge opened by Oze's guardian, "Hirano Chōzō."

The lodge I stayed at is "Chōzō Lodge," the oldest lodge in Oze, built in 1936. It is a large wooden structure accommodating 180 people. With its traditional Japanese house design, those fond of architecture will surely be impressed. They even offer bath services.

The dining room, featuring impressive wooden beams.

Private bedrooms equipped with a unique Japanese heating system called a "kotatsu."

Nearby, there is a village-operated mountain lodge, "Oze-numa Hutte."

I took a peek at the nearby Oze-numa Hutte. Upon asking, I learned it is managed by Hinoemata Village and features a striking large wooden terrace. If I get another chance to visit, I'd love to leisurely enjoy stargazing with the provided large telescope.

A Dinner with a Rich Menu of Japanese
and Western Dishes

There were various dishes, primarily centered around Japanese cuisine. The main dish was a hamburger, but since I dislike meat, I requested a grilled salmon instead. They mentioned that they can accommodate such requests if informed at the time of reservation. I was amazed at the variety of dishes served in such a remote mountain location.

Reflecting on the Journey Next time,

I want to go peak hunting. Although I postponed it this time, when I return to Oze, I aim to reach the mountain's summit. This national park offers various ways to enjoy the journey.