【Drive】A leisurely walk that deliberately avoids climbing Mount Oyama in Kanagawa Prefecture! Touring popular spots for large shaved ice & tofu

Driving to Mount Oyama located in Hadano City, Kanagawa Prefecture. Instead of taking the ropeway to the mountain, we leisurely explored the area at the foot of the mountain.

Starting a leisurely stroll at the foot of Mt. Oyama

The Golden Week has finally come to an end. Although I feel a tinge of nostalgia, I decided to visit Mt. Oyama in Kanagawa for a day trip that allows me to conserve my energy. It’s just about an hour and a half by car from Tokyo, making it easily accessible, and it's a place where you can experience rich nature and history up close.

Speaking of sightseeing at Mt. Oyama, you might imagine visiting the summit via the ropeway, but this time, I chose to focus on the "foot area" and enjoy the stroll. At the foot of Mt. Oyama, there are numerous spots that make your heart skip with each step you take.

I parked my car in the parking lot and began my stroll. A river flows alongside the road, and the small terraced stone walls resembling a waterfall create a refreshing scene. Although it was a bright sunny day, the sound of the river provided negative ions, making it comfortable to linger longer.

As I walked a bit further, I spotted the Komabira Path. From here, the true pleasure of walking around Mt. Oyama begins. As I looked at the utility pole on the right side, I discovered a warning sign about bear sightings. I couldn't believe I saw a bear warning at the entrance of this path. I couldn't help but look twice.

On the Komamichi, there was a sign that said, "Let's walk while counting the Ouyama tops." It's a long journey with 362 steps, and this playful spirit keeps it from getting boring. There’s an exciting feeling like a treasure hunt that makes you forget your fatigue.

On both sides of the stairs, there were souvenir shops lined up with various Ouyama tops. It is said that Ouyama tops have been cherished as souvenirs since the Edo period. It is also believed that a top that spins well brings good fortune and smooth progress in life. Since we've come to Ouyama, we can't help but take one home.

In summer, there are long lines! To the popular shaved ice shop, "Shimizuya."

The highest temperature of the day was 24 degrees. Having walked outdoors for a long time, I realized I was drenched in sweat. So, I stopped by Shimizuya. It is known as a famous shaved ice shop, and when I visited on a scorching day last August, I waited about an hour and a half. Since it was still a bit early in the season this day, I was able to enter smoothly.

The menu is lined with delicious-looking shaved ice. I had a hard time deciding, but I chose the "Strawberry Milk with Bits (1250 yen)," which is the most popular.

Shimizuya
Location: 295 Ouyama, Isehara City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Business hours: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Look at this size! It's so fluffy that it makes me doubt my memory, wondering, "Was it this big?" The fluffy ice is piled high. Beautifully poured over is a fruity strawberry syrup and condensed milk, showcasing the dignity of Shimizuya. You can taste the tartness from the strawberry syrup and the rich sweetness from the condensed milk, enjoying the different flavors depending on where you insert your spoon, and before you know it, it's all gone.

Takeaway from the long-established "Koide Tofu Store," founded in Meiji 15

On the way back, I stopped by Koide Tofu Store, established in Meiji 15. If you come to Oyama, you must try the famous tofu as well. Peeking inside, there were no people, but the door was barely open. With a bit of nervousness, I entered, and it seemed the sensor rang a bell.

Immediately, the shopkeeper came from the back. When I said, "One block please," they expertly cut out tofu from a large tank. How does the taste of this long-loved establishment measure up!?

Koide Tofu Store
Location: 427 Oyama, Isehara City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Business hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

I took it home and thoroughly enjoyed the taste of the tofu (210 yen). I had it as chilled tofu. The fine and delicate texture spread the rich flavor of soybeans throughout my mouth, and it was incredibly delicious, beyond my imagination. I tend to sprinkle green onions out of habit, but perhaps that wasn’t necessary. I could truly experience why it has been loved for over 140 years.

I leisurely strolled around the base area of Oyama for the first time and enjoyed the historic approach and local gourmet specialties. This time it was a half-day trip to conserve energy, but if I had departed earlier in the morning, I could have also visited places like Oyama Afuri Shrine, making it a great spot for those who want to travel a bit.

Search Latest massage chair on Amazon