What is in westernmost area of Tokyo!? Experience the another world in Hinohara village and Okutama!
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Deep in the westernmost part of Tokyo, the villages of Hinohara and Okutama preserve a side of the city that few people know about—one rich in history and industry. In this journey, I visited three remarkable sites: Kobayashi House, an Edo-period thatched-roof residence, Kazuma Branch School Memorial Museum, a former rural school, and Okutama Industrial Hikawa Factory, a key site in Tokyo’s limestone industry. Each place offered a unique glimpse into the past and present of this lesser-known region.
Kobayashi House is a historic Edo-period residence designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Its traditional thatched roof and massive wooden beams reflect the architectural wisdom of the time. Walking through its rooms, I could almost feel the presence of the people who once lived here, surrounded by the beauty of nature.
Next, I explored the Kazuma Branch School Memorial Museum, a small school that once served children in this mountainous region. Desks, blackboards, and old photographs remain untouched, transporting visitors back to the Showa era. Seeing this nostalgic classroom made me reflect on the unique challenges faced by schools in rural areas and the role they played in their communities.
Finally, I visited the Okutama Industrial Hikawa Factory, where limestone production continues to be an important industry. It was fascinating to learn how this natural resource has shaped both the local economy and urban development. The towering structures and industrial landscape of the factory were impressive, almost like a scene from a movie.
There is so much more to Tokyo than its bustling city center. If you are interested in history and industry, these hidden gems are worth a visit. If you enjoyed the video, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment sharing your thoughts or favorite hidden spots in Tokyo!