Mount Takao

Name: Mount Takao
Address: Mount Takao, Takaomachi, Hachioji, Tokyo 193-0844, Japan
Rating: 4.5

4.5 (200)・Natural Feature・Establishment

Mount Takao is a beautiful and accessible mountain near Tokyo, standing 599 meters tall. It’s a favorite spot for hiking and nature lovers, offering stunning views and a rich mix of natural and cultural attractions.

The mountain is just an hour by train from central Tokyo, making it an easy day trip. Visitors can explore several hiking trails, ranging from gentle walks to more challenging climbs. One of the most popular routes is Trail 1, which leads directly to the summit and passes through lush forests, ancient temples, and scenic viewpoints.

At the top, you’ll find Yakuo-in Temple, founded over 1,200 years ago. This temple is dedicated to the Tengu, mythical creatures that protect the mountain. On clear days, the views from the top can be seen all the way to Mount Fuji, a great reward for the hike. If you don’t want to hike, there’s a cable car and a chairlift that will take you up the mountain in a relaxed way.

Mount Takao is also known for its seasonal beauty. In spring, cherry blossoms add color to the trails, while autumn brings vibrant fall foliage. Open year-round, Mount Takao provides a peaceful escape into nature right on the doorstep of Tokyo.

The area

Address

Mount Takao, Takaomachi, Hachioji, Tokyo 193-0844, Japan

Top ways to experience Mount Takao

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What other travelers are saying about Mount Takao

Must visit place for tourist in Japan Can take cable car or chair lift up to one point after that u have to climb to the top with option 6 different trail . Had climb through trail 4 and down by trail 3 . Both is easy and had nice trekking path with nice view. If u are lucky as me then have best view of Fuji . Suggest to take some snack and water bottle with u . Have floor mate to sit when u reach the top . Spend some time there on top .

No_2 Blogger

Apr 28, 2025

Lots of different paths to choose from with the main path being nice and wide. Not much to see at the top but it is a good hike if you want your legs to burn. The first half of the hike is much harder so taking the cable car would help

Narutosheng

May 12, 2025

A very scenic hiking area. You can take a cable car up or do it the old fashion way. I prefer hiking on the way up as it is full of tourists.

Jonahs Travel

Apr 27, 2025

Very good for those who like hiking and it is not difficult. I started on route 1 and halfway through I switched to route 4 to see the bridge. At the top, as it was a good day, I could see Mount Fuji. On the way down I went on route 6.

Christiano Reis

Mar 2, 2025

Amazing hike to, and energy on, Takao-san. Highly recommended day-trip if you are staying in Tokyo (or nearby). There are 6 possible trails from the bottom to the top (and back) that you can choose among, each with a different degree of intensity; pick up a free map from the cable car station (bottom of mountain) to decide which trail you want to follow. We enjoyed 1 (main), 4 (a bit more challenging physically, but highly rewarding from a natural and spiritual point of view), and 6 (currently only open going upwards). You can also take a cable car or chairlift (we really enjoyed the latter) to cover part of the ascent/descent, but the main part (to reach the top) can only be covered on foot, from the arrival stations up. Wonderful nature and Shinto shrines all across the mountain (remember this is not only a natural wonder but also a highly sacred place). There are no bins along the route and visitors are strongly advised to dispose of the rubbish after leaving the mountain. Key signs are also in English and Korean, but many are Japanese-only, so keep a good translator at hand if you don't speak the language. Plenty of toilets and cafes along the route. We saw people from all age groups, from very young school kids to elderly people - how beautiful!