West Tanzawa

What it is

• A mountainous area in northwestern Kanagawa Prefecture covering the Sakawa River upper drainage basins.
• The region includes Hirugatake, which is the highest peak in the Tanzawa Mountains.
• The West Tanzawa Visitor Center serves as a primary base for climbers and hikers.
• Nakagawa Onsen is located here, historically known as Shingen's Hidden Spring.

What to see

• Lake Tanzawa is a large dam lake formed by the Miho Dam.
• Azaleas bloom along the Tsutsuji Shindo trail during the spring season.
• The Tokai Nature Trail passes through the scenic Koso Border Ridge.
• Rare Rosa hirtula flowers grow naturally along the ridge bordering Shizuoka.

When to go

• Visit in late May to see azaleas blooming along the mountain trails.
• A mountain opening ceremony is held at Mount Ono on April 29.
• The Tanzawa Lake Marathon takes place on the last Sunday of November.

Getting there

• Buses run from Shin-Matsuda Station directly to the West Tanzawa Visitor Center.

Notes written by Japan Gems from facts in Japanese Wikipedia.