Situated in Tokyo prefecture, just under 60 minutes from the centre of the city is Mount Takao. To reach Takao from Tokyo, take a train from Shinjuku station for 56 minutes using the Keio line to Takaosanguchi station. When you think of Tokyo you probably don’t think of mountains and green landscapes. However, Tokyo prefecture is in fact home to many beautiful hiking trails and mountains. Mount Takao is beloved by the residents of Tokyo as the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the Metropolis full of nature and tranquility.

Mount Takao is a sacred site in Japan which has a rich history spanning over 1,200 years, perfectly blending culture and religion together. If you love nature, hiking and want to get off the beaten tourist path on an easy day trip in Tokyo, then Takao is for you! Make your Tokyo trip unique by visiting this hidden gem!

Mount Takao actually receives more visitors than Mount Fuji annually due to its easy accessibility from the city centre, and due to its comfortable trails and conditions. If you love hiking, spending time outdoors, or want to see a more traditional side to Tokyo then spending a day exploring Takao is a perfect option. There are many activities to enjoy on Takao that will be sure to suit all ages and preferences. Before ascending Takao, the town has a free local museum called Takao 599. Here, visitors can learn all about Takao’s forna and flora before exploring the mountain. Takao 599 also has its own cafe making it a great first stop to get a hot drink and snack.

For avid hikers and fitness enthusiasts, the full hike to the top of Takao will take you approximately 2 hours one way, so factor in a full 4 hours for a round trip. For those not wanting to hike the full mountain, you can ride a picturesque cable car or chair lift to the half way point up the mountain which takes 7 minutes. These run every 15 minutes, so be sure to check the timetable before you depart, and tickets cost around 300 yen for a round trip. Whilst Takao is technically open 24 hours, the chair lift and cable cars usually run until 5pm.

From this halfway point you will have the perfect starting location to explore the many famous landmarks and attractions of Takao including a monkey park and garden, suspension bridge, ancient Cedar Tree avenue and Takao’s temple. All of these main attractions can be seen by following trails 1 and 4. There are 7 trails in total, so depending on your preferences and hiking abilities, choose what is best for you. We highly recommend following trail 1 for a beginner or first time visitor. If you just want to hike straight to the top without visiting or stopping to look at any of the attractions, it will take you approximately 40 minutes.

When you finish the tour at the summit, you can enjoy taking in spectacular views of Tokyo, the surrounding mountainous landscape and even Mount Fuji on clear days! There is a cafe at the summit selling various noodle dishes, as well as small street food vendors along the main trail. If after your hike you want to continue exploring Takao, make sure to visit the local Onsen or visit one of the many local shops and restaurants in the local area.

Want to experience Mount Takao for yourself?

1 Day Tour

Mount Takao Adventure : Discover Nature and Tradition in Tokyo
Period	September – May
Time	09:20 – 17:00
Meeting Place	Outside of the Happy Lemon Keio Shinjuku Store
Adult Rate	¥19,800
Child Rate	¥13,000