Camp Zama Day Trip Idea #1

People are often asking what is a good spot for a day trip so I figured I would put some together that we have enjoyed as a family. This first one is great for a last-minute outing because it keeps you close to home. 

(1) Start by heading to the Atsugikodomonomori Park! This park closes early so we always head there first. There is a huge slide that is so worth the hike. Every age will enjoy it, even the grownups. Parking is free.

(2) If you can't get enough of the slides, head across the street to Ogino Athletic Park that has a rolling slide (bring something to sit on if you don't like the way it makes your butt feel). There is also a cool playground in this area. Parking is free. 

(3) About 20 minutes away you can take a very short hike to see this unique bolder named Kameishi that is eerily resting just a few hundred feet into the wood line. Park right past the spot on the side of the road. Fine a stick on the way into place against it. This bizarre practice gives the illusion that all the small sticks are holding the older in place. Climb on top of the bolder for a beautiful view of the waterfall rolling around it. 

(4) We usually end this day with a relaxing onsen at Nanasawaso which is tattoo and kid-friendly. According to their website, "The source of Nanasawaso is an authentic natural hot spring in Atsugi that was excavated over three years from 1989. The hot water, which boasts the highest concentration in the prefecture, is strongly alkaline with a pH of 9.54 or higher, and contains metaboric acid and metasilicic acid, which have a rinsing effect." Here is their website for more information. 

(5) On your way back home, check out Afuri Zund Bar for dinner. They are famous for their Yuzu Raman (amazing!). Try to make reservations because it is a very popular place. 

(6) A bonus spot in this area is Treehouse Adventure. I would skip 1-3 and just go to Treehouse Adventure tough. There is a zip-line course for those ages 8 and above, but they also have a small course for those under age. It is still is a lot of fun for the kids and very cost reasonable. One of the owners is British and speaks very good English. (Use the potty on the way up.)