Lake Okutama　　　　　　　　　　　　

Lake Okutama is an artificial lake that was created when the Ogouchi Dam was built on the Tama River. It is officially called ‘Ogouchi Reservoir.’ It straddles four municipalities: Okutama-machi in Tokyo, as well as Tabayama-mura, Kosuge-mura and Koshu City in Yamanashi Prefecture. Surrounded by mountains rich in flora and fauna, the location offers beautiful sceneries all year round: cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in the summer, colored leaves in autumn, and breathtaking landscapes in winter. Different exhibits are displayed at the Okutama Water and Green Friendship Hall, located by the lake, to present the local history and culture, the natural environment of Okutama—a source of water for the residents of Tokyo—and the inner workings of the dam, making it a great place to learn about water and the lives of people around it. Many people come this peaceful oasis of the metropolitan area to relax.