I hiked up to the lake from Okutama station, took about 3 hours, then had lunch and a beer on the other side of the dam. The views were absolutely stunning!

I then ventured around the lake. My target was the pontoon bridge, which I reached after about 3 hours of walking. All flat, so not challenging, but I was already tired from the hike. I ran out of water about halfway through, and there was no opportunity to get some more, all of the taps along the way weren't fit for drinking. I think taking a 2 litre bottle should be enough for a hot day.

Last bus from near the temple is about 5:30 I think, so I was in a bit of a rush at the end, and unfortunately, I didn't get to explore the temple.

Still, keep an eye out for monkeys, the newborns can be spotted in late spring/early summer!