Tailor-Made Itineraries in Tama
We offer experiences that bring you close to the heart of Tama’s heritage, with the chance to connect directly with local artisans and craftspeople.
In partnership with Tokyo Mountain Tours, a local company focused on the Tama region, we create unique, unforgettable experiences. Along the way, you’ll meet artisans and small business owners who share their craft, from delicious local dishes to beautiful handmade creations. Whether you want to try your hand at something new, enjoy a peaceful retreat into traditional craftsmanship, or discover the creative soul of Japan, we promise a personal and enriching journey into Tama’s culture.
Partnership with
Local Craft: Shaping Moments with Heart
Shaped by land and time, the crafts of Tama speak quietly of care, traditions, and steadfast continuity. Mud and indigo dyeing, sumi-e painting, bamboo work, and fragrances made from Hinoki cypress in the forests of Hinohara—Tokyo’s only village—are still practiced and evolving. These skills take shape in gently worn spaces, where each gesture and movement carries a sense of time. And now and then, an unexpected encounter in town might become part of your story.
Fermentation: Savor the Traditional Flavors
The flavors of Tama tell a story of time and craft. Begin with the deep umami of aged soy sauce in contrast to the subline fresh flavor of handcrafted tofu —both are deeply rooted in the community for generations. Of course, you cannot forget the locally brewed sake, with nine sake breweries in the region. Each taste reveals something unique about the region’s food culture, shaped by the quiet dedication of those who have preserved these practices over time. It’s not just flavor, it’s the heart of the place.
From River to Mountain: Natural Flow
Walk the upper reaches of the Tama River with a local guide, tracing the water that sustains life. Paddle through the Mitake Gorge on a rafting trip, cleaning the river as you go, led by a former world champion. Experience forest bathing in the ancient woods, a wellness practice known for its health benefits. Sit by the fire with a forester who has spent decades tending to these special woodlands, listening to his wisdom of long-term care practices and natural connections.
Ikigai: The Secret to Japan’s Longevity
Japan has one of the longest-living populations, and the secret isn’t just diet—it’s purpose. In Tama, people of all ages move through life with a deep sense of connection. Mindfully wander the mountain paths, gather wildflowers for a wreath, help harvest rice, and enjoy a simple and naturally delicious meal together. Listen to old folktales told in the quiet forests, and witness the dedication of geisha who devote themselves to their timeless art. In these moments, ikigai reveals itself through every mindful action.
Rituals of the Mountain: A Shinto Path to Mitake
Mount Mitake, a sacred site of Shugendo, has long drawn pilgrims seeking spiritual awakenings amidst its mystical landscapes. Visit the Musashi Mitake Shrine, take part in time-honored rituals, and walk ancient forests where monks once trained. Shinto,rooted in animism, teaches that the divine—YaoyorozunoKami—resides in all things: the trees, the stones, the air, and the spirits of our ancestors. Stay in a traditional Shukubo, where quiet prayers and blessings have been part of the pilgrim’s path since the 17th century.