[2025 Hachioji ] Travel Guide for Mt. Takaosan Hiking Course (Updated Jan)

#hikingtrails #100waysoftravel #japantravel Mount Takao, located about an hour from central Tokyo, is a perfect spot for a nature-filled day trip. Standing at 599 meters, it's great for hiking, cultural exploration, and enjoying beautiful views, all with easy access from the city. Getting There: From Shinjuku Station, take the Keio Line to Takaosanguchi Station (50 minutes, about 400 yen). It’s quick, affordable, and brings you right to the base of the mountain. Best Time to Visit: - Autumn (October to December): For stunning fall colors. - Spring (March to April): For cherry blossoms. To avoid crowds, try visiting on a weekday or early in the morning. Trails: Mount Takao has several trails, from easy to more challenging: Trail 1: A paved, beginner-friendly route. Trail 4: A quieter, scenic path with a suspension bridge. Trail 6: A more natural trail that passes a waterfall. If you’re not up for hiking, there’s a cable car or chairlift option halfway up. Things to See: -Yakuo-in Temple: A historic Buddhist temple dedicated to the mountain gods. - Summit Views: On clear days, you can see Tokyo and Mount Fuji from the top. - Nature: Wildlife like monkeys and beautiful forests, especially in autumn. Tips: - Start early to avoid crowds. - Wear comfortable shoes and bring layers. - Bring cash for food stalls and small shops. - Check the weather and be prepared if it’s muddy after rain. Mount Takao is perfect for a peaceful break from the city, with scenic trails and cultural highlights for all levels of hikers.

Hiking Trail 6 upwards and descending through Trail 1 and then taken chair lift to the base station. Weather was cool and a little sunny which was totally bearable. We chose Trail 6 because we wanted a nature trail and walk through the waterfalls. This trail is more of surprises. Stony path, ponds and water flowing areas, waterfalls, buzzing bees, and huge trees and their roots, 100s of steps and wet lands. There are information board and it will lead us through correct trails. Trail does not have any food stalls or wending machines for drinks. It is advisable to carry your own. The whole walking trail is maintained well, and it is expected same from everyone using. Take your dust home. I felt the most tiring part of this trail was climbing those 100s of steps. But otherwise the whole hike was the best experience. There is emergency service in case you feel ill, trimble or have a fall in between your track and they are always available. On the top, you have washroom, vending machine, food stalls and information center. We took part in stamp collection rally. So we have to collect 5 stamps to get the wooden bamboo hand fan 🪭 Getting down we took Trail 1, it was through beautiful shrines. There is a food stall where I took sweet Tango. Then as it started heavily raining we took chairlift. The cost for one side was ¥450 per person. It was a nice experience. They close at 16:30. My experience with whole trek was pretty convenient, information desk is very helpful as they tell you every detail of the trail (if you are hiking first time, I suggest to visit the information desk at the Takaosanguchi station). Carry on energy food and drinks, have an umbrella handy (weather might change suddenly).

#myhiddengems Been to Tokyo several times, but I haven't been to this place. There's a lot to see and do in Mt Takao. We took the tram from the foot of Mt Takao and climbed for around 1.5 hour to reach the peak to find this view [the third photo]. There were many things to see as we climbed. Several different routes and we chose the temple for king of medicine route. After the climb, we enjoyed this grape softee while waiting for the tram to get down to the foot of Mt Takao.