What other travelers are saying about Musashi Mitake Shrine
Amazing hike. I started at the Mitake train station #10 bus stop. It runs 7 days per week about every 30 minutes. At Mitake station there are lockers to store luggage, 500yen total for three days to use the largest locker. There is also a clean waiting room at the station. The #10 bus located about 20 meters going across the street from the station to the left of the bridge takes you to the JR cable car. To reach the cable car from the last bus stop You will need to walk up a rather steep paved road for about 5 minutes from the cable car bus stop to the actual cable car. I did not total up every dollar but it's about $8-$10 per person round trip. The local village stores including a small convience store don't open until 9am are located at the top of the cable car mountain plus a larger small mountain village about 30 minutes walk from the cable car mountain top station. Many restaurants and local stores in the village. I started my trip at 8am which was about perfect. Bring water and a few snacks. I walked the entire loop from the temple to the rock garden and falls in about 4hrs. Enjoyed the best soba lunch ever with saitake tempura at the end. It was an amazing day and well worth the trip from Tokyo. On the way back to Tokyo I found one of the best onsens located next door to a rather large Aeon where I ate ten peoples worth of sushi and soaked for a few hours in some of the best quality onsen water. I'm not sure which was better the sushi or the onsen so do both. There is also a bakery inside the Aeon . The Aeon food court you should avoid as it is not something to enjoy, just go to the actual grocery area and get green tea, sushi, grilled seafood, and a pastry. Inside is a small table area to enjoy your meal.
Take the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station to Ome Station, then transfer to the JR Ome Line local train to Mitake Station. The journey takes approximately 90 minutes. From Mitake Station, board a bus for a 10-minute ride to Takimoto Station, where you'll find the cable car. The cable car ascends to Mitakesan Station, and from there it's a 25 to 30-minute walk through the mountain village to reach the shrine.
Entry to the shrine grounds is free. However, you'll need to purchase a cable car ticket, which costs approximately ¥1,130 for a round-trip for adults. If you wish to visit the treasure hall to view the historical artifacts and national treasures, there's a separate entrance fee of around ¥500.
Yes, the shrine is accessible throughout the year, and each season offers a different experience. The cable car operates year-round with varying schedules depending on the season. However, be prepared for colder temperatures at the 929-meter elevation, especially in winter months when snow may be present. Spring and autumn are particularly popular for cherry blossoms and fall foliage respectively.
The walk from the cable car station to the shrine is moderate and takes 25 to 30 minutes along paved stone pathways through the mountain village. While there are some steps and inclines, it's manageable for most visitors with reasonable fitness levels. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. If you plan to explore additional hiking trails around Mount Mitake or visit Nanayo Falls, more substantial hiking preparation is recommended.
The main shrine buildings showcase traditional architecture and are the focal point for worship and rituals. The treasure hall displays national treasures including ancient swords, armor, and religious artifacts donated by historical samurai and nobility. The mountain village approach features traditional shukubo lodgings and shops. Many visitors also explore the surrounding sacred forest, hiking trails, and the nearby Nanayo Falls for a complete mountain spiritual experience.
The cable car is 1200 yen round trip then a short hike to the shrine. The shrine is pretty big and there are stores and restaurants that are close to it on the mountain. Provides a beautiful view on a clear day. The path is nice and well maintained but be prepared for a steep hike.
Magical mountain shrine with breathtaking views and a sacred wolf guardian 🐺
If you’re looking for a spiritual escape just outside of Tokyo, Musashi Mitake Shrine is a hidden gem. Located at the summit of Mt. Mitake, this ancient Shinto shrine is known for its guardian deity — the wolf, revered as a protector against evil and disasters. It’s a rare and powerful symbol in Japanese mythology.
The shrine is reachable by the Mitake Cable Car, which boasts the steepest incline in the Tokyo area — a fun and scenic ride up the mountain. From the cable car station, there’s a moderate hike of about 30–40 minutes, with some steep paths, but it’s a great workout surrounded by lush forest and fresh mountain air.
The atmosphere at the top is peaceful, energizing, and spiritually refreshing. Whether you’re into hiking, history, or nature, this place offers a bit of everything. You’ll also find some beautiful torii gates, stone lanterns, and panoramic views along the way.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and try to go on a clear day to enjoy the views!
Highly recommended for a day trip that connects culture, nature, and spiritual calm.
This place is worth visiting. Really beautiful temple in top of the mountain. You can also experience the Cable car service on the ways. Allocate at least half of your days.
