Takaosan Yakuo-in, Tokyo - a group of people walking down a street next to tall buildings
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Takaosan Yakuo-in Tokyo

4.3
·7k reviews·Hachioji, Japan

A sacred mountain escape just an hour from Tokyo, offering ancient temples, scenic hikes, and panoramic views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Takaosan Yakuo-in, Tokyo - a group of people walking down a street next to tall buildings

Takaosan Yakuo-in Tokyo

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A sacred mountain escape just an hour from Tokyo, offering ancient temples, scenic hikes, and panoramic views.

4.3
(7k reviews)

"A perfect blend of nature, spirituality, and accessibility, just a stone's throw from Tokyo's hustle."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚠 Cable Car & Chairlift

Save energy by taking the cable car or chairlift up. Great views!

👟 Comfortable Shoes

Wear sturdy shoes for hiking, even if you plan to use the lifts.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Yakuo-in Temple

Yakuo-in Temple

Mid-mountain

An ancient Buddhist temple with a spiritual atmosphere, featuring numerous tengu statues and rituals.

Instagram+1
Summit Views

Summit Views

Mountaintop

Enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo and, on clear days, even Mount Fuji.

TikTokReddit
Azalea Garden

Azalea Garden

Near Yakuo-ji

A serene and often uncrowded spot, especially beautiful during azalea season.

TikTok

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds

Mount Takao is a popular spot, especially on weekends and during autumn foliage season. Consider visiting on a weekday to enjoy a more peaceful experience. If a weekend is your only option, aim for early morning to avoid the biggest crowds. Reddit

Getting There & Around

Easily accessible from Shinjuku, Mount Takao is about an hour away by train. Once there, you can hike or take a scenic cable car or chairlift to save time and energy. TikTokReddit+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn (fall foliage)
Why
Stunning colorful scenery
Crowd
High
When
Spring (azaleas)
Why
Beautiful blooming flowers
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Hidden Azalea Garden in Tokyo 🥹 Got the whole place to myself 🌸 📍 Yakuoh-ji, Ome 🇯🇵 🎟️FREE #japan #tokyo
@lovemari.japan
103.9K likes • 1.2M views

🚠 Cable Car & Chairlift

Save energy by taking the cable car or chairlift up. Great views! TikTokReddit+1

👟 Comfortable Shoes

Wear sturdy shoes for hiking, even if you plan to use the lifts. TikTok

This place is only 1 hour away from Shinjuku Station!!For more info check out my insta 🫶🏻 #japantravel #japantraveltips #japantravel2022 #japantravelguide #japantravelplaces #japantraveltokyo #tokyotr...
@vivianemayag
80K likes • 778.1K views
Kalau mina san lagi di Tokyo dan ingin healing sambil menikmati suasana spiritual, yuk mampir ke Gunung Takao (Takao-san)! 🏞️ ⛩️ Di tengah jalur pendakian, kamu bakal menemukan Yakuo-in, kuil kuno ya...
japanfyp.id
2 likes • 199 views

📅 Weekday Visits Recommended

Avoid weekend crowds for a more enjoyable experience. Reddit+1

📱 Download Offline Maps

Cell service can be spotty, so offline maps are a lifesaver. TikTok

40 mins by train from Shinjuku! Hachioji is blessed with beautiful nature throughout the four seasons✨ Hiking Mt. Takao when the trees change color🗻 Hachioji is featured in the Michelin tourist guid...
destination.tokyo.tama
24 likes • 1.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚠 Cable Car & Chairlift

Save energy by taking the cable car or chairlift up. Great views! TikTokReddit+1

👟 Comfortable Shoes

Wear sturdy shoes for hiking, even if you plan to use the lifts. TikTok

📅 Weekday Visits Recommended

Avoid weekend crowds for a more enjoyable experience. Reddit+1

📱 Download Offline Maps

Cell service can be spotty, so offline maps are a lifesaver. TikTok

🍜 Try Local Snacks

Enjoy delicious street food and local specialties near the summit. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.3
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Mount Takao is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, spiritual ambiance at Yakuo-in Temple, and accessibility from Tokyo. Visitors appreciate the convenience of the cable car and chairlift, making it a great option for families and casual hikers. However, its popularity means it can get very crowded, especially on weekends and during peak seasons.

"My photos suck compared to pro social media influencers, so don't focus too on the shoots. This is a review of both the Mountain and the temples. The mountain is about 600m high. You can easily burn at least 500 calories tracking on this 2.6km+ trail. If you don't use the non-free cable rail of course. Probably the least busiest and most quietist up here. When you reach the peak, you get to see other mountains and an overview of Tokyo city from the horizon. They even have binoculars you pay 100 yen to use but your phone might zoom in better these days. Food and drinks await half way for refreshments and laventries. And theres also an observatory up ahead too. Almost forgot about the Shinto Buddhist temples that are part of Japan's heritage now. You can trail through it to enjoy the nice healing spiritual energies as you journey to reach the top. Note they do close at 4pm though so you need to go around to reach the top. Don't stay out too late though or else it gets too dark and mosquitoes will bite you (some parts of the trail are not lit). So hike carefully as it can also be slippery at inclinations on wet days."

Vy Dao

"Had a great time, the shrines were beautiful, the climb easy (did trail 1).
In the summer the cool air of the trees makes it more enjoyable.
The cable car was really enjoyable, felt like I was in a Ghibli movie. It’s apparently the steepest cable car in Japan.
There are 3 Goshuins to choose from (depends which counter you go to) but the red stamps are the same, only the writing changes."

Olympe

"Easier to reach than anticipated because of the cable car and chairlift! Still lots of stairs but worth the hike for the views :)"

Evie Lietz

What People Like

Easy access from Tokyo
Beautiful nature and views
Yakuo-in Temple's spiritual vibe

What People Dislike

Can be very crowded
Main trails are less challenging

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Take the Keio Line from Shinjuku Station directly to Takaosanguchi Station. The journey takes about 50 minutes. Some express trains may require a transfer at Kitano Station. TikTokReddit+1

Yes, there are parking lots available near the base of the mountain, but they can fill up quickly, especially on busy days. Public transport is generally recommended. TikTok

The Keio Special Express train from Shinjuku is a convenient option that often doesn't require transfers. Check the schedule for the most direct routes. Reddit

It typically takes around 40-60 minutes by train from major hubs like Shinjuku. TikTok+1

Yes, a 1-Day Ticket is available which includes round-trip train rides and a round-trip cable car or chairlift ride for approximately 1500 JPY. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Mount Takao itself is free to enter and hike. However, there are fees for the cable car and chairlift, as well as for specific attractions within Yakuo-in Temple. TikTok

Operating hours vary seasonally, but they generally run from around 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information. TikTok

Tickets for the cable car and chairlift can usually be purchased on-site at the respective stations. The 1-Day Ticket package often includes these. TikTok

The 1-Day Ticket offers a bundled price for transportation, which is generally more economical than purchasing individual tickets. TikTok

Yes, Yakuo-in Temple is open to visitors. While the temple grounds are accessible, specific ritual times or areas might have restrictions. Instagram+1

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

Mount Takao offers several trails, ranging from paved paths to more natural routes. Trail 1 is the most popular and paved, while others like Trail 6 are more natural. Some consider it more of a walk than a strenuous hike. Reddit+1

The hike to the summit can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on your chosen trail and pace. Using the cable car or chairlift significantly reduces the time. TikTokReddit

Yes, on clear days, Mount Fuji is visible from the summit of Mount Takao. However, it's not guaranteed, and the view might be distant. Reddit

At the summit, you can find observation decks with views, restaurants, souvenir shops, and the entrance to Yakuo-in Temple. TikTokInstagram

Yes, Mount Takao is very beginner-friendly. The paved trails and the option of using the cable car or chairlift make it accessible for most fitness levels and families with children. TikTokReddit

🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining

Yes, there are several restaurants and food stalls located near the summit and at the cable car/chairlift stations, offering various Japanese dishes and snacks. TikTok

You can find popular Japanese comfort foods like soba noodles, tempura, and various snacks like dango and ice cream. TikTok

Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is perfectly fine. Many visitors enjoy picnics on the mountain trails or at designated rest areas. TikTok

Options might be limited, but some restaurants may offer vegetable-based dishes like tempura or simple noodle soups. It's advisable to inquire directly at the restaurants. TikTok

While not a specific dish, 'Tengu-yaki' (a sweet bean paste-filled pastry) is a popular local treat associated with the temple. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The Yakuo-in Temple grounds, the summit observation decks, and scenic points along the hiking trails offer great photo opportunities. The azalea garden is also picturesque. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, on clear days, Mount Fuji can be photographed from the summit. Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light. Reddit

Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds. Golden hour (late afternoon) can also provide beautiful lighting for the temple and surrounding nature. TikTok

Generally, photography is allowed on the temple grounds, but it's always respectful to avoid intrusive photography during ceremonies or in restricted areas. Instagram

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful for landscapes and temple details. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive views, and a telephoto lens can be good for distant Fuji shots. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mount Takao is an excellent choice for families. The easy-to-navigate trails, especially Trail 1, and the option to use the cable car or chairlift make it accessible for children of all ages. TikTokReddit The temple grounds offer a sense of wonder with their unique Tengu statues, and the summit provides a rewarding view. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider the 1-Day Ticket for convenient transportation. TikTok

🚶 Hikers Seeking a Challenge

While Mount Takao is popular for its accessibility, serious hikers might find the main trails less challenging. For a more robust hiking experience, explore the lesser-known trails like Trail 4 or Trail 5, which offer steeper ascents and more rugged terrain. Reddit Alternatively, consider combining Mount Takao with a visit to nearby Okutama or Mount Mitake for more demanding hikes. Reddit

🧘‍♀️ Spiritual Seekers & Culture Enthusiasts

The Yakuo-in Temple is the main draw for those interested in Japanese Buddhism and spiritual sites. Instagram+1 Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere, observe the unique Tengu imagery, and learn about the temple's long history. Visiting on a weekday can offer a more contemplative experience away from the weekend crowds. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Mount Takao's Trails

Mount Takao offers a variety of trails catering to different fitness levels and preferences. Trail 1 is the most popular and is a paved path leading directly to the summit, making it very accessible. It's often referred to as the 'scenic route' and is lined with shops and restaurants. For those seeking a more natural experience, Trail 6 is a popular choice, offering a dirt path that winds through the forest. Other trails, like Trail 3 and Trail 5, offer different challenges and scenic points. Reddit+1

Many visitors opt to use the Takaosan Cable Car or the Takaosan Chairlift to ascend part of the mountain, significantly reducing hiking time and effort. The cable car is enclosed and travels at a steeper incline, while the chairlift is an open-air experience offering more expansive views. Both are excellent options for those who want to conserve energy or have limited time. TikTokReddit+1

It's important to note that while Mount Takao is a popular destination, some Redditors feel it's more of a 'walk' or 'stroll' rather than a challenging hike, especially on the main trails. If you're looking for a strenuous trek, you might consider exploring other trails or nearby mountains. Reddit+1

The Spiritual Heart: Yakuo-in Temple

Nestled on the slopes of Mount Takao is the ancient Yakuo-in Temple, a significant Buddhist site founded in 744 AD. The temple is renowned for its spiritual atmosphere and its association with Tengu, mythical mountain spirits often depicted with long noses and red faces. You'll find numerous Tengu statues scattered throughout the temple grounds, adding to its unique charm. Instagram+2

Visitors often describe the temple as a place of peace and spiritual energy. The main hall, along with various sub-temples and pagodas, creates a picturesque and serene environment. During certain times, you might witness monks in procession or experience traditional rituals, adding to the immersive cultural experience. Instagram

While exploring Yakuo-in, take time to appreciate the intricate architecture and the surrounding natural beauty. The temple is an integral part of the Mount Takao experience, offering a blend of nature, culture, and spirituality that draws many visitors seeking a tranquil escape from the city. Instagram

Seasonal Beauty of Mount Takao

Mount Takao transforms with the seasons, offering distinct beauty throughout the year. Spring brings vibrant colors with blooming azaleas, particularly in the dedicated gardens, creating a picturesque scene. TikTok

Summer offers lush greenery and a refreshing escape from Tokyo's heat, with the mountain providing cooler temperatures and shaded trails. Autumn is arguably the most popular season, as the leaves change to brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a stunning natural spectacle. This is when the mountain is at its most crowded. Reddit+1

Winter offers a different kind of beauty, with crisp air and the possibility of snow dusting the landscape, providing a serene and quiet experience. Regardless of the season, Mount Takao provides a beautiful natural backdrop for a day trip from Tokyo. TikTok

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