Tokyo Tama Tourist Site

Just 1 Hour from Shinjuku! Welcome to the World’s Most Popular Mountain

Looking to escape the bustle of Tokyo for a refreshing day in nature? If so, Mount Takao should absolutely belong on your travel itinerary.

Mount Takao is known as one of the most visited mountains in the world, attracting an estimated 3 million hikers annually. But its appeal isn’t just its popularity. It has been awarded the prestigious three stars in the authoritative Michelin Green Guide Japan, with its rich nature and scenery recognized globally.

Its greatest charm is its unbeatable accessibility. Believe it or not, it’s just one hour by train from Shinjuku, the heart of Tokyo! This guide will thoroughly explain the appeal of Mount Takao, where you can easily experience grand nature and Japanese culture.

Getting There: Your Step-by-Step Guide from Shinjuku

The gateway to Mt. Takao is Takaosanguchi Station, the final stop on the Keio Line.

You can travel directly without transferring by taking the Special Express train bound for Takaosanguchi Station from Shinjuku.

Choose Your Adventure: 3 Recommended Hiking Routes

One of Mt. Takao’s biggest charms is the variety of trails available, suitable for different fitness levels and time constraints.

1. The Beginner/Family Route: Trail 1 (Via Cable Car)

Features: The main route is paved and easy to walk. You can take the cable car or chair lift halfway up, making the ascent the least strenuous option to the summit.

Duration: Approximately 50 minutes to the summit after using the cable car.

Highlights: Passes by a historic temple and is well-equipped with shops and rest areas.

2. The Nature Immersion Route: Trail 6 (Stream Side)

Features: This route follows a stream, allowing you to enjoy nature while listening to the sound of the water. Non-slip shoes are required as there are some rocky and wet sections.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes to the summit.

Highlights: You can experience Mt. Takao’s rich ecosystem, including small waterfalls and springs.

3. The Panoramic View Route: Inariyama Trail

Features: This route follows the mountain ridge and features an observation deck along the way, offering a clear view of the Tokyo skyline. It is recommended for those who want to enjoy both a proper hiking atmosphere and great scenery.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours to the summit.

Highlights: The scenery from the observation deck is particularly spectacular, giving you a true sense of accomplishment from hiking.

Historical Highlights: Rest Stops with History and Scenery (Yakuo-in Temple & Tengu Legends)

Mt. Takao is more than just a climbing spot. Halfway up the mountain sits Yakuo-in Temple, with a history spanning nearly 1,200 years, offering a spiritual experience where nature and Japanese religious culture merge.

Statues of Tengu (a mythical mountain spirit) can be seen all over the Yakuo-in grounds. Tengu are legendary creatures believed to be the messengers of the gods protecting the mountain. Their unique appearance, featuring large noses and wings, makes them a photogenic symbol of Mt. Takao.

Please note that this site is still an active place of worship and is deeply cherished. Visitors are asked to observe quietly and respectfully.

The Best Views: Mt. Fuji and the Tokyo Skyline

Let’s enjoy the two spectacular views that Mt. Takao proudly offers.

Mount Fuji: From the summit’s observation deck, if the weather is good, you can gaze upon the magnificent figure of Japan’s symbol, Mount Fuji. The winter mornings, when the air is clear, offer the best chance to see it at its most beautiful.

Tokyo Panorama: From the observatory near the cable car station, a panoramic view of Tokyo stretches out, including the Shinjuku skyline and the Tokyo Skytree in the distance.

Mt. Takao Food Experience: Local Specialties to Complete Your Hike

After a tiring hike, recharge your energy with delicious local specialties unique to Mt. Takao.

Tororo Soba: This is a regional specialty around Mt. Takao. It consists of soba (buckwheat noodles) topped with tororo (grated yam), which is said to be good for vitality. It is offered at many shops.

Tengu-yaki: A popular treat sold at shops near Yakuo-in Temple. This unique obanyaki (a thick pancake) is shaped like a Tengu face and filled with rich black bean paste.

Takaosan Beer Mount (Seasonal): Operating only during the summer (around June to October) near the top cable car station, this is a beer garden located at an elevation of 500m. It is a popular spot among foreign visitors where you can enjoy beer with the best possible views.

Conclusion: Why Mt. Takao is a Must-Visit on Your Tokyo Trip

Mt. Takao holds the unique appeal of being “Michelin three-star nature that is the most accessible in the world.”

Convenience: Just one hour from Shinjuku.

For tourist information about the Tama area, visit “Another TOKYO TAMA”
https://at-tama.tokyo/lang_en/