Mt. Kumotori

Mt. Kumotori stands at 2,017 meters, making it the highest peak in Tokyo and straddling the borders of Tokyo, Saitama, and Yamanashi prefectures. The mountain lies within Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park, designated in 1950 to protect the mountainous region west of Tokyo. The name "Kumotori" translates to "cloud-taking," reflecting the peak's frequent cloud cover. The mountain has been climbed for centuries, with historical records showing religious ascetics and woodcutters using various trails since the Edo period.

Mt. Kumotori holds significance as Tokyo's highest natural point and represents the headwaters of the Tama River, which supplies drinking water to millions in the Tokyo metropolitan area. The mountain's ecosystem supports diverse flora and fauna across elevation zones, from beech and oak forests at lower altitudes to subalpine vegetation near the summit. As the meeting point of three prefectures, the peak features a triple-point marker stone erected in 1919. The mountain is considered sacred in Shugendō, a syncretic religious tradition combining Buddhism and mountain worship.

Hikers typically require 6-8 hours to reach the summit from major trailheads, with the round trip taking 10-12 hours for experienced trekkers or spanning two days with an overnight stay at mountain huts. The most popular route begins from Kamosawa trailhead on the Tokyo side, ascending through forested terrain with elevation gain of approximately 1,300 meters.

The summit offers views of surrounding mountain ranges including Mt. Fuji on clear days. Three mountain huts provide basic accommodation: Kumotori Sansō near the summit, Nanatsuishi Goya, and Ishio Sansō, each charging around 7,000-8,000 yen per night including meals. The trails pass through pristine forest, rocky sections, and seasonal streams. Snow and ice are common from December through April, requiring winter mountaineering equipment and experience.

Access the main trailheads via public transportation from Tokyo. For Kamosawa trailhead, take the JR Ome Line to Okutama Station (approximately 2 hours from Shinjuku), then board the Nishi-Tokyo Bus to Kamosawa or Otokomesawa stops (about 40 minutes). Buses run limited schedules, particularly on weekdays. Alternative trailheads include Mitsumine Shrine on the Saitama side, accessible via bus from Seibu-Chichibu Station.