Such a relaxing nature spot. The air is fresh, the forest is lush, and walking along the trail is really soothing—plus the sound of the stream in the background is super healing.
It’s perfect for escaping the heat in summer, and it’s also great in fall for the foliage. The whole forest vibe just makes you feel calm.
Highly recommended if you love being outdoors.

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Okutone Water Source Forest
Feel the gifts of nature in the forest and recharge your energy!
Okutone Water Source Forest is a nature-filled gem at an elevation of 4,600 feet in Gunma Prefecture, home to a vast primeval beech forest. It’s also one of the “100 Best Forests for Water Sources,” selected by Japan’s Forestry Agency, and you can enjoy stunning scenery in summer’s fresh greenery and the fall foliage season. A great spot for anyone looking to refresh in nature.
There are three walkable trails in the forest: “Shinrin-yoku Trail,” “Hohoemi Trail,” and “Komorebi Trail.” Along the way, you can take in the pure air and gentle sunlight while listening to wild birds sing. “Hohoemi Trail” is designed to be barrier-free, making it an easy route for anyone to enjoy.
Nearby, there’s a free town-run campground, and you can use it without a reservation, which is another nice perk. Whether you want to take it slow with some forest bathing or play in the mountain stream, you can fully enjoy the outdoors here. Overnight stays are possible, but there’s no gear rental, so be sure to bring your own tent and supplies.
Highlights
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A forest in the highlands at an elevation of 4,600 feet.
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In summer’s fresh greenery and during the fall foliage season, breathtaking views spread out everywhere and are well worth seeing.
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Note that out of nine walking trails, only three are currently open.
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There’s a free campground nearby. Overnight stays are possible, but there’s no gear rental, so bring your own supplies.
Photos
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A primeval beech forest spreads out across highlands at an elevation of 4,600 feet
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Take a deep breath in the lush greenery, and the fresh air will fill your whole body and leave you feeling refreshed
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There’s a free-to-use campground nearby. No reservation needed!
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Is there free Wi-Fi available in the area?
No.
Q
Are there coin lockers?
No.
Q
Are there restrooms?
No.
Q
Are there smoking areas?
No.
Reviews
Some reviews are AI-translated.
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 奥利根水源の森
- Postal Code
- 379-1721
- Address
- Fujiwara, Minakami-machi, Tone-gun, Gunma
- Phone
- 0278-62-0401 (Minakami Town Tourism Association)
- Closed on
- None
- Hours
- Open 24 hours
- Admission
- Free
- Access
- Approx. 45 minutes by car from “Minakami” Station (JR Joetsu Line)
- Official website
- Official website (Japanese)