Southern Tama is an area in southwestern Tokyo, about 30 to 45 minutes by train from Shinjuku. While it is well known as a commuter town with convenient access to central Tokyo, it is also home to a wide variety of attractions, from theme parks to beautiful natural scenery. This autumn, two destinations stand out. One is Mt. Takao, a popular spot famous for its spectacular autumn foliage. The other is “PokéPark KANTO”, the first permanent outdoor Pokémon attraction, which opened in 2026 inside the popular amusement park Yomiuriland.In this article, we’ll introduce these two highlights, along with some hidden gems worth visiting nearby and tips for avoiding the crowds, so you can make the most of your time in Southern Tama.
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⛰️🥾Visiting Mt. Takao?―――Tips for Avoiding the Crowds
A Hidden Gem: Uratakao
Autumn foliage at Mt. Takao is usually at its peak from mid-November to early December, drawing large numbers of visitors every year. In recent years, more and more people have been exploring Uratakao, the area on the northern side of Mt. Takao, as a quieter alternative to the crowded summit and the popular Trail No. 1. Here, you can enjoy peaceful rural scenery, clear mountain streams, the local specialty nameko mushroom soup served at local restaurants, and authentic hiking trails. 提供：八王子市
Access
Takaosanguchi Sta. (Keio) → 5 min walk → Cable Car / Chair Lift Sta.
Free Admission to a Beautiful Japanese Garden: Takao Komagino Garden
Admire a beautifully maintained Japanese garden and a charming traditional house, all free of charge. Then take a relaxing break at the garden café, where you can enjoy matcha or coffee while soaking in the peaceful Japanese atmosphere.
Access
JR Takao Sta. or Takaosanguchi Sta. (Keio) → 15 min walk
Stay Overnight for a Comfortable Hike: TAKAone ACTIVITY&STAY
Just a 1 min walk from Takaosanguchi Station, TAKAone ACTIVITY&STAY is the perfect base for exploring Mt. Takao. Spend the evening relaxing around a bonfire in the courtyard with a locally brewed craft beer, then set off early the next morning before the trails get crowded. Hiking shoes are also available for rent.
Access
Takaosanguchi Sta. (Keio) → 1 min walk
Business hours
Varies by facility
Regular holiday
No fixed holidays
Experience Traditional Performing Arts at Soto Terrace
Soto Terrace is a complex near Hachioji Station, about 20 minutes by train from Takaosanguchi Station. Reflecting Hachioji’s history as a thriving center of the silk textile industry, the facility hosts traditional performing arts events, including performances by geigi (traditional female performing artists) and yose (traditional Japanese variety shows). Visitors can also enjoy local Hachioji dining, including a ramen shop serving bowls for just 100 yen and a traditional Japanese confectionery shop with a 200-year history.
Access
JR Hachioji Sta. → 7 min walk
Business hours
Varies depending on the shop
Regular holiday
Mondays
🧭✨Visiting PokéPark KANTO?―――Discover the Origins of Pokémon
Drawing Pokémon Fans from Around the World: PokéPark KANTO
One of the World’s Few Museums Dedicated to Prints: Machida City Museum of Graphic Arts
Located in Serigaya Park, this museum houses more than 30,000 prints from around the world, spanning from the past to the present. Admission to the Permanent Exhibition is free, so feel free to stop by.
Access
Machida Sta. (JR, Odakyu) → 15 min walk
Business hours
Weekdays 10:00–17:00 / Weekends and holidays 10:00–17:30（Last admission 30 min before closing）
Regular holiday
Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a national holiday or substitute holiday)／Dec. 28–Jan. 4
