Tama River
The Tama River stretches approximately 138 kilometers from its source at Mount Kasatori in Yamanashi Prefecture to Tokyo Bay, forming a natural boundary between Tokyo and Kanagawa Prefecture for much of its lower course. Historically, the river served as a crucial water source for Edo (modern-day Tokyo) and played a strategic defensive role during the feudal period. The construction of the Tamagawa Josui aqueduct in 1654 made it the primary water supply for the shogunate's capital, marking a significant engineering achievement of the era.
The river basin encompasses diverse natural environments, from mountainous terrain in its upper reaches to wide floodplains and estuaries near Tokyo Bay. The Tama River Cycling Road follows the river for over 50 kilometers, offering scenic routes popular with cyclists and walkers. The riverbanks support seasonal wildlife, including migratory birds that gather at the estuary mudflats, making it a notable spot for birdwatching, particularly during spring and autumn migrations.
Visitors can explore various sections of the river depending on their interests. The lower reaches near Tamagawa Daishi and Haneda provide urban riverside parks and walking paths with views toward the bay. The middle section around Futako-Tamagawa offers shopping and dining alongside river access, while upstream areas near Ome and Okutama feature hiking trails, gorges, and opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing and kayaking. Cherry blossom viewing along the banks attracts crowds each spring, particularly in areas like Tamagawadai Park.
Access varies by location along the river's length. The lower and middle sections are easily reached via multiple train lines including the Tokyu Denentoshi Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line, and JR Nambu Line, with stations like Futako-Tamagawa, Denenchofu, and Musashi-Kosugi providing convenient starting points. Upper sections near Okutama require the JR Ome Line from Tachikawa or Shinjuku, with journey times around 90 minutes from central Tokyo.
