Remember, I cannot spend the time here for private trips unrelated to OCJ. In future people will have to look themselves... or contribute to the club …login to view the rest of this post

The first cherry blossom is now approaching full bloom at Myougi San - one of the best trips in Japan!

End of March beginning of April 2. Nagatoro has a lot of cherry blossom out along the streets and railway paths (steam trains). There is a cheap camps…login to view the rest of this post

Update: For those interested in Sunday... if you wrap up warm, you can do the event. There may be strong wind at times but has reduced a little since…login to view the rest of this post

Useful - quick response chat system:
app.php/mchat

We used wine packs similar to this for spiced wine. There was a better one but a dark full bodied fruity one usually tastes good. As you can see we ha…login to view the rest of this post

UPDATES: All details added - with maps. Numbered 1 to 5 but displayed the opposite way on the page. Weather looks go at the moment but cool in the ev…login to view the rest of this post

The hot river event will soon be past it's hot date as the temperature rises and the snow melts. Nobody stepping up to lead the trip either (I can provide most details). I am in the UK dealing with a funeral now so I cannot do events. Even end of April looks unlikely dealing with property etc. Would...

If possible I will be there but planning is impossible at the moment. Still in hospital as infections there spread easily. Hopefully she will be home in a week or so which might result in fewer infections. Will post when I can start planning. There is a great trip for people interested in a hot rive...

Mum in hospital for the 6th time ( CO2 retention and Pneumonia after that in hospital ) - hopefully to rehab and out before Christmas. Looks very very unlikely I will get to Japan soon as I will be the main carer. Because of bad Kafunshou I would also be limited to the beginning of February so my ne...

Volunteer needed for this weekend (14th) or next weekend (21st) to lead a group to wild hot spring in Okukinu. Meet people , guide along the route, collect the club event donation and send via PayPal. This weekend good weather and colours good above the hot spring. Will be cold at night but free hot...

Unfortunately due to my mum's ill health and other house construction maintenance problems I will have to delay my trip to Japan. Some time in November or December still possible if the situation improves.

I hope to be there as planned but departure delays are more likely now as my mum was in hospital 3 times the last month. Actually due for discharge in the next 2-3 days but I am not sure how long recovery will take or to what level she will reach. Chest infection complicated by COPD. She was doing f...

Are there any free wild hot springs a day from Tokyo? ChatGPT Andy Not bad... found Okukinu. Yes, there are several free wild hot springs (also known as "onsen") within a day's travel from Tokyo. Here are a few options you might consider: Nikko Yumoto Onsen: Nikko is a popular tourist des...

What are the dangers of sawanobori (waterfall or stream climbing)? ChatGPT Sawanobori, also known as waterfall or stream climbing, is a popular outdoor activity that involves ascending waterfalls and streams by climbing, hiking, and sometimes swimming. While it can be an exhilarating and adventurou...

Can you give me a complete hiking event plan for Mount Kumotori? Andy The answer is not bad... if you were making a plan it would be quicker to use this and modify it to suit your plan details.A better answer maybe if the names of each point on the route are given. ChatGPT Of course, I'd be happy t...

Are there free places to stay on the route hiking up Mount Kumotori? ChatGPT As of my last update in September 2021, Mount Kumotori is the highest peak in the Okutama Mountains, located in Tokyo, Japan. Hiking up Mount Kumotori is a popular activity, and there are several free places to stay along ...

Route time climbing Mount Kumotori from Okutama dam ChatGPT The time it takes to climb Mount Kumotori from the Okutama Dam can vary based on factors such as your hiking pace, trail conditions, and rest breaks. The Okutama Dam is a common starting point for climbing Mount Kumotori. One popular route...

Question: I want to climb mount kumotori in August - what do I need? ChatGPT: Mount Kumotori is the highest peak in the Okutama region of Tokyo, Japan. Here's a general list of what you might need for your climb: Appropriate Clothing: Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing to keep you dry and comfo...

The language program / so called 'AI' can help get basic hiking plans and gear list ready as a base to start from. Can be quicker than typing it all out from memory! We have a lot of previous event details (on the website) which can be copied but the online free program can make a list quickly. You ...