Watarase River Valley

Cycling through the Watarase Valley offers a quiet and scenic escape, with gentle paths that follow the winding Watarase River. The valley, nestled in the Kantō region, is known for its peaceful countryside, small villages, and stretches of forested hills. Riders can enjoy views of the Watarase Reservoir and pass through areas of farmland and open landscapes. In spring, the route is lined with cherry blossoms, while autumn brings subtle changes in foliage. It’s an ideal ride for those seeking a relaxed, rural experience away from busier routes.

The Watarase Valley is particularly pretty in the fall colours with the Watarase River Valley Train running special services!

Route

National Route 122 – Main Route

The main road can be busy, especially near the south but it’s the easiest way. However it includes a 3.5km tunnel at the top. The tunnel is a descent towards Nikko. For those that would rather skip the tunnel see the “smaller roads” route below”

Smaller Roads

Most of the route, especially throught the South, has an alternative route on the other side of the river. These roads are almost entirely traffic free. In general the roads are quite narrow and the surface is good.

The smaller roads road also skips the long tunnel at the North end of the route passing the route over the old road. The old road is about 300m climb over the tunnel

Getting there and away

North

The North end of the route is near Nikko which has easy access back to Tokyo

South

At the south end, the entrace is at Omama station, but there are a variety of stations in the Area