Tsutsumori Momijidani Valley, Otaki

Tsutsumori Momiji-dani Valley is a secluded autumn foliage destination located in the Yoro Valley area of Otaki Town, Chiba Prefecture. The valley earned its name from the striking crimson maple trees that blanket the landscape during peak season, transforming the entire valley into what appears to be a sea of red fire. This relatively unknown spot is considered sacred ground among local autumn leaf enthusiasts and ranks among the Eight Scenic Sights of Yoro, alongside historic landmarks such as Shussei Kannon, Kannon Bridge, and Kobundo Cave Site.

The valley sits approximately 1 kilometer along a narrow mountain road from National Route 465 in the Tsutsumori area, with Japanese maple trees, Chinese lacquer trees, and beech lining both sides of the route. The remoteness and difficult access have helped preserve its natural beauty, making it a hidden gem that rewards those willing to venture off the beaten path. The site is described as difficult to reach for first-time visitors but offers autumn scenery known primarily to locals.

Visitors experience a walking trail that extends through the valley, following alongside a clear mountain stream with views of waterfalls and rugged terrain. The approximately 1-kilometer walk from the entrance features maple leaf decorations on bridge guardrails and provides increasingly dramatic views as the path progresses deeper into the valley. The temperature noticeably drops as visitors walk further into the valley, where large trees grow thickly around the surrounding cliffs. At the summit, local vendors traditionally sell roasted sweet potatoes as a warming treat for hikers.

Access requires taking the Kominato Railway to Yoro-Keikoku Station or Kazusa-Nakano Station from Goi Station (which connects to Tokyo via the Sobu and Uchibo lines through Chiba Station). During autumn season, the Boso Satoyama GO bus operates on weekends and national holidays, taking approximately 8 minutes from the station to Tsutsumori Momiji Valley bus stop.

Visitors can take a bus to Oikawa bus stop and walk 45 minutes to reach the valley. By car, the valley is located approximately 30 minutes from the Ken-O Expressway Ichihara-Tsurumai Interchange, though drivers should note that the access road is extremely narrow with many sections where two vehicles cannot pass simultaneously. Parking is available for 20 cars. There is no admission fee to visit the valley. Note that IC cards like Suica and PASMO cannot be used on the Kominato Railway, so paper tickets must be purchased.