Ōme Railway Line

The Ōme Railway Line connects the city of Tachikawa in Western Tokyo to the scenic mountain town of Okutama.

The Route

Tachikawa Station is easily accessible from central Tokyo via the Chūō Main Line. As many Chūō Line trains operate via the Ōme Line to Ōme Station, there is usually no need to change in Tachikawa.

Ōme Railway Line

As the train travels westward from Central Tokyo, the scenery gradually transitions from busy urban neighbourhoods to increasingly mountainous terrain and the forested landscapes of the Okutama Mountains.

Views from the Ōme Line

The Ōme line culminates at Oku-Tama Station, approximately 90 minutes from Shinjuku Station in Central Tokyo. The trip to this terminus station usually requires a transfer in the city of Ōme. The Ōme Railway Park is located within walking distance of Ōme Station. While I didn’t have a chance to visit during my trip, the railway park apparently showcases an impressive collection of historic railway artifacts, including a carriage from the very first Shinkansen.

Ōme Station

Just before Okutama lies Shiromaru Station—a quiet, unmanned stop that holds the distinction of being the least-used among all 882 train stations in Tokyo. Shiromaru Station serves only about 70 passengers each day.¹

Shiromaru Station

Nestled at the far western edge of Tokyo, the town of Okutama is renowned for its many outdoor activities and the pristine Lake Okutama—a crucial source of Tokyo’s drinking water. Okutama is also home to Tokyo’s highest peak, Mount Kumotori, which reaches a height of 2,017 metres. Beyond its scenic landscapes, Okutama is also one of Japan’s premier areas for wasabi cultivation. Here, wasabi plants thrive in rocky stream beds fed by the flowing mountain water.²

Oku-Tama Station itself holds a unique distinction as Tokyo’s westernmost railway station, as well as its highest-elevated station. At 343 metres above sea level, it nearly matches the height of Tokyo Tower.³ Built in 1944, the station is also notable for its unique wooden architecture. I was inspired to visit after reading an online post by a cyclist who had visited every train station in Tokyo by bike and named Oku-Tama as one of his favourites.⁴

Oku-Tama Station

With a population of roughly 5,000, Okutama’s economy is sustained by tourism, forestry, and the age-old craft of charcoal making.⁵ Just across from the railway station, stairs lead down to the serene waters of the Tama River.

Okutama

If, like me, you find yourself awake early on a Sunday morning, before Tokyo’s shops and streets come alive, a few hours spent riding the Ōme Line to Okutama is a rewarding experience. Along the line, Hatonosu and Mitake Stations also feature charming wooden architecture. From Mitake Station, you can transfer to the Mitake Tozan Funicular, which carries passengers up to a viewpoint on Mount Mitake. Although I didn’t have time to explore these stops during my visit, they’re definitely on my list for next time.