Mount Takao Tokyo
Accessible 599m peak near Tokyo, offering hiking trails, a Buddhist temple, and scenic cable car rides with city and Fuji views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier access
Mount Takao Tokyo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier access
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Accessible 599m peak near Tokyo, offering hiking trails, a Buddhist temple, and scenic cable car rides with city and Fuji views.
"A refreshing nature escape less than an hour from Tokyo, perfect for a day trip with stunning views."
🎯 Weekday Visits Recommended
Avoid weekend crowds for a more peaceful hike and shorter wait times for lifts.
👟 Choose Your Trail Wisely
Trail 6 is scenic and recommended over the steep Route 1.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mount Takao Summit
Summit
Panoramic views of Tokyo and, on clear days, Mount Fuji. A rewarding sight after your ascent.
Yakuo-in Temple
Mid-mountain
An ancient Buddhist temple with striking architecture and a serene atmosphere.
Cable Car & Chair Lift
Lower slopes to mid-mountain
Enjoy scenic rides up the mountain, saving energy for the summit views. A fun experience for all ages.
Hiking Trails
Various routes
Explore well-maintained paths like Trail 6 for scenic beauty and a moderate challenge.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Getting There is Easy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Weekday Visits Recommended
Avoid weekend crowds for a more peaceful hike and shorter wait times for lifts. +1
👟 Choose Your Trail Wisely
Trail 6 is scenic and recommended over the steep Route 1.
🚠 Cable Car/Chair Lift Fun
A fun way to ascend, especially for families. Expect waits on busy days.
🚆 Direct Keio Line from Shinjuku
Easy 1-hour journey to Takaosanguchi Station.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Weekday Visits Recommended
Avoid weekend crowds for a more peaceful hike and shorter wait times for lifts. +1
👟 Choose Your Trail Wisely
Trail 6 is scenic and recommended over the steep Route 1.
🚠 Cable Car/Chair Lift Fun
A fun way to ascend, especially for families. Expect waits on busy days.
🚆 Direct Keio Line from Shinjuku
Easy 1-hour journey to Takaosanguchi Station.
📸 Capture the Views
Clear days offer stunning vistas of Tokyo and Mt. Fuji.
🍜 Try Local Snacks
Don't miss out on delicious treats like Dango at the summit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mount Takao is celebrated for its incredible accessibility from Tokyo, offering a refreshing nature escape with beautiful views and a charming temple. While many enjoy the scenic hikes and the option of cable car rides, visitors frequently mention the significant crowds, especially on weekends and during peak seasons, which can detract from the experience.
"I highly recommend coming out to this mountain it offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, peaceful hiking, and cultural exploration. The views from various points are absolutely stunning, and you’ll come across several gorgeous shrines along the trails that are well worth stopping at. There's also a charming little suspension bridge that adds to the overall charm.
The mountain has multiple trail options, all falling in the easy to medium range in terms of difficulty. None of them are intense, and many are shaded, making them a great choice even in the summer heat. There are also plenty of rest spots, vending machines scattered along the way, and small eating areas where you can grab a quick snack or cool drink.
One of the best features is the choice between taking a cable car or a chairlift. I personally suggest doing one on the way up and the other on the way down, so you get to experience both. I especially loved the chairlift coming down—it gave a breezy, peaceful end to the hike. Just note that if you go early in the morning, the chairlifts might not be operating yet, so starting with the cable car may be your best option.
Another important tip: chairlift stop running at 16:30 so plan accordingly if you're heading up later in the day.
All in all, this mountain is a 10 out of 10 for me. It’s a perfect morning hike that offers incredible views, peaceful shrines, and multiple ways to tailor your experience depending on your mood and pace. A must-visit."
Marissa G. W
"Very easily accessbile from Tokyo, Shinjuku and Shubiya area with Japan Rail.
A nice small hike for a prelude for climbing something taller. I'd say it's more fun than hard and difficult.
Ascent time takes approximately an hour but all depends on your level of fitness.
There are shops and vending machines along the way, for keeping your hunger and hydration at bay.
Nice view from atop; Mount Fuji is visible if the weather is clear but unfortunately for me, it wasn't.
The trail then continues should you wish to continue to the next nearby mountains."
Tajul Islam
"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
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to take the Keio Line Special Express from Shinjuku Station directly to Takaosanguchi Station, which takes about an hour. Some Reddit users mention the Chuo Line, but it requires a transfer to the Keio Line at Takao Station.
Yes, it's very straightforward. The Keio Line is a direct route from Shinjuku, and Takaosanguchi Station is the final stop, making it hard to miss.
It typically takes around 1 hour by train from Shinjuku Station. Some TikTok videos mention 40 minutes to an hour.
Yes, you can use your Suica or Pasmo card for the Keio Line. However, some TikToks suggest looking into tourist-specific passes for potential savings. +1
Absolutely! It's a popular and accessible day trip, offering a nature escape less than an hour from the city center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the hiking trails and the mountain itself are free to access. You only pay for optional services like the cable car or chair lift.
Prices can vary slightly, but a round trip for the cable car or chair lift is typically around ¥1,300-¥1,500 for adults. Check the official Keio Takaosan Electric Railway website for current pricing.
It's generally not necessary to buy tickets in advance, but on very busy days, especially during peak seasons like autumn, lines can be long. Purchasing on-site is the norm.
Operating hours usually start around 8:00 AM and run until about 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM, with variations depending on the season. It's best to check the official schedule before your visit.
While not strictly for Mount Takao itself, some tourist passes might offer discounts on the Keio Line or other transportation options. Researching these before your trip could save money.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Trail 6 is highly recommended for its scenic beauty and moderate difficulty. Trail 1 is a paved road, and while direct, it's very steep. Other trails offer varied experiences.
Hiking to the summit and back can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on your chosen trail, pace, and how much time you spend at the top. Using the cable car or chair lift significantly reduces the time.
At the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views, visit Yakuo-in Temple, and find restaurants and shops. On a clear day, you might even see Mount Fuji.
Yes, Mount Takao is very popular and can get extremely crowded, especially on weekends and during autumn. Weekday visits are strongly advised to avoid the masses.
On very clear days, Mount Fuji is visible from the summit of Mount Takao. However, it's not guaranteed, and the view can be disappointing if the weather isn't perfect.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several restaurants and snack stands on the mountain, particularly near the summit and the cable car/chair lift stations. You can find everything from simple snacks to full meals.
Many visitors enjoy trying 'Dango' (sweet rice dumplings) and 'Soba' noodles. Some Reddit users specifically mention enjoying large Dango.
Yes, bringing your own snacks and drinks is perfectly fine and a good way to save money. There are also many spots to sit and enjoy a picnic.
While options might be limited, you can often find simple dishes like plain soba noodles or rice. It's advisable to check with individual restaurants or bring your own food if you have strict dietary needs.
The summit area has a few restaurants offering Japanese cuisine. They can get busy, so be prepared for potential waits during peak hours.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers panoramic views, especially on clear days with Mount Fuji in the background. The Yakuo-in Temple grounds also provide beautiful architectural shots.
Autumn (October-November) is spectacular for fall foliage photos. Spring also offers beautiful greenery and blooming flowers.
Yes, on exceptionally clear days, Mount Fuji is visible and makes for an iconic photo. However, it's not a guarantee, so manage expectations.
Generally, photography is allowed in most public areas. However, always be respectful of religious sites like Yakuo-in Temple and avoid intrusive photography.
A standard zoom lens is versatile for landscapes and temple details. If you're hoping for Fuji shots, a telephoto lens can be useful. A wide-angle lens is great for the panoramic views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more engaging experience, you can point out the different types of trees and plants along the trails. The monkey park, though not always a highlight for everyone, can also be an interesting stop for younger children. Overall, Mount Takao provides a good balance of adventure and convenience for families.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Taking the Keio Line from Shinjuku is an affordable way to get there. To save money on-site, consider packing your own lunch and snacks. While there are restaurants and shops, they will be more expensive than bringing your own provisions. If you do opt for the cable car or chair lift, purchasing a round-trip ticket might offer a slight saving compared to two one-way tickets.
📸 Nature Photographers
Clear days provide opportunities to capture panoramic views of Tokyo and, if you're lucky, the iconic Mount Fuji. The Yakuo-in Temple offers beautiful architectural shots with its traditional Japanese design. Exploring the various hiking trails can lead to hidden gems and serene forest scenes. Consider bringing a versatile zoom lens for landscapes and details, and a telephoto lens if you're hoping to capture distant shots of Mount Fuji.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Mount Takao's Trails
When planning your route, consider your energy levels and what you want to see. If you're looking for a challenging hike, tackling multiple trails might be an option. However, for a more relaxed experience, combining a lift ride with a shorter hike to the summit is popular. Remember that even the 'easier' trails can be tiring, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water. The trails are generally well-maintained and signposted, making navigation relatively straightforward.
It's worth noting that while Mount Takao is often called a 'hike,' some visitors feel it's more of a tourist attraction with walking paths due to its accessibility and amenities. Regardless of your definition, the experience offers a refreshing escape into nature just outside the bustling city.
The Mount Takao Cable Car and Chair Lift Experience
+1Both the cable car and chair lift take you partway up the mountain, significantly reducing the hiking time and effort. They are particularly popular with families, older visitors, or those who want to maximize their time at the summit. However, it's important to be aware that on busy days, especially weekends and during peak seasons like autumn foliage, wait times for these lifts can be substantial, sometimes exceeding 30-40 minutes.
Many travelers find the ride itself to be an enjoyable part of the Mount Takao experience. The views from both the cable car and chair lift are picturesque, offering a different perspective of the surrounding nature. While some purists might prefer to hike the entire way, the lifts provide a practical and fun alternative for many visitors.
Mount Takao's Popularity and Crowds
If you're aiming for a more tranquil experience, visiting on a weekday is highly recommended. Early morning visits, even on weekdays, can also help you beat some of the crowds, especially for accessing the cable car or chair lift. Some travelers have expressed disappointment with the crowds, noting that it can detract from the natural beauty and peacefulness of the mountain.
Despite the crowds, many visitors still find Mount Takao to be a worthwhile destination due to its accessibility and the enjoyable experience it offers. The key is to manage expectations and plan your visit strategically to minimize the impact of the crowds.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit