Nature & Hike · Akigawa Valley / Akiruno

Akigawa Valley & Ishifune-bashi 秋川渓谷・石舟橋

A clear, boulder-strewn river valley in Akiruno where Tokyo families come to barbecue, paddle and swim in summer. The Ishifune-bashi suspension bridge hangs over its prettiest stretch of emerald pools, close to Seo-no-Sato hot spring.

HoursOpen access

ClosedOpen daily

PriceFree

Getting thereJuriki bus stop (from Musashi-Itsukaichi Station), 10 min

Time neededHalf day

Best timeJuly–August for swimming; November for autumn colour

AddressTokura, Akiruno City, Tokyo

About

The Akigawa is the Tama River's largest tributary, and its valley in Akiruno is the cleanest swimming river within reach of central Tokyo. Riverside campsites and barbecue areas fill on summer weekends with local families. The most scenic stretch is around the Ishifune-bashi suspension bridge, about 10 minutes' walk from the Juriki bus stop. There the river cuts between rocks into deep emerald pools and is lined with maples that turn red in November. Nearby are the Seo-no-Sato hot spring for a soak and small shops selling local sake and soba. It is a laid-back countryside day out, far from the tourist trail.

Highlights

The Ishifune-bashi suspension bridge above emerald pools
Clear water for summer paddling
Riverside barbecue and campsites
Maples that turn red in November
Seo-no-Sato hot spring nearby for a soak

Tips

Take the Nishi Tokyo bus from Musashi-Itsukaichi Station to Juriki (about 20 min).
Swimming is at your own risk. Check river conditions after rain.
Combine with Hossawa Falls, a few more stops up the same bus line.
Weekdays are much quieter in summer.

Open in Google Maps · Info checked 2026-10-09

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