With Tokyo still currently in a state-of-emergency with limited access to travel far, it is easy to get stuck in a rut and stay indoors all day every day. Yet, it is important to still get some exercise and fresh air every so often. Around this time last week, I finally lugged myself outside and decided to take a walk. I wanted a slight chance of scenery from my bedroom's bare walls and Todoroki Valley certainly answered this calling.
Upon entering the start of this narrow yet scenic route, you instantly feel like you are a world away from Tokyo. With beautiful greenery, a calming stream and on this day, gorgeous sunshine, Todoroki Valley is the perfect setting to feel at ease and embrace the beauty of nature. The route itself is around one kilometre and takes around roughly half an hour to complete. One of the valley's most focal features is its red bridge but unfortunately when I visited it was under construction.
There are many spots to discover including a Japanese garden, the remains of tunnel tombs, and a tearoom where you can take a break and enjoy some traditional Japanese sweets. Notably, throughout the route there are a good amount of places to sit and watch the world go by.
Part of the trial leads you to this beautiful temple known as the Todoroki Fudo Temple. From to this point, there is a viewing platform from which you can overlook the trees and the valley itself. This spot seems as if it could be the perfect place to take a photo while the sun is setting.
Walking towards the Japanese garden leads you to the beautiful sight of red leaves and bamboo trees. This was my favourite part of the trail and it made such a nice backdrop for photos. Continuing your walk up from this point also brings you to a flat grassy area where you can sit, soak up the sunshine, and even have a little picnic when the time is appropriate to do so.
In my opinion, Todoroki Valley has proved to be one of Tokyo's best secret escapes.
Location
Address: 1 Chome-22 Todoroki, Setagaya City, Tokyo 158-0082
Nearest Station: Todoroki Station (can get here using the Tokyu Oimachi Line from Shibuya)
Side Note: Please take caution when going out. Keeping your distance from others is really important.
Comments