Mount Mitake Tokyo
A serene mountain escape near Tokyo, offering hiking trails, a beautiful rock garden, and a historic Shinto shrine.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Mount Mitake Tokyo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene mountain escape near Tokyo, offering hiking trails, a beautiful rock garden, and a historic Shinto shrine.
"A peaceful and accessible nature escape from Tokyo, perfect for a day trip or overnight stay."
👟 Comfortable Footwear Recommended
Athletic shoes are generally fine for the main tourist routes, but sturdy footwear is best for rocky paths.
📶 Trail Navigation
Trails are well-marked, so GPS isn't always necessary, but signals can disappear higher up.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rock Garden Trail
Base of Mount Mitake
A serene, moss-covered path with unique rock formations and a gentle stream. Perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Musashi Mitake Shrine
Summit of Mount Mitake
An ancient Shinto shrine offering panoramic views and a sense of spiritual tranquility.
Mitake Tozan Cable Car
Base to mid-mountain
A scenic ride offering stunning forest vistas, making the ascent to the summit much easier.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Key
Getting There: Plan Your Journey
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Footwear Recommended
Athletic shoes are generally fine for the main tourist routes, but sturdy footwear is best for rocky paths. +1
📶 Trail Navigation
Trails are well-marked, so GPS isn't always necessary, but signals can disappear higher up.
☕️ Nearby Cafes & Stays
Charming cafes and unique accommodations like Airbnb are available near the mountain.
⏰ Plan Your Return
Be aware of the last cable car and train times to avoid being stranded.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear Recommended
Athletic shoes are generally fine for the main tourist routes, but sturdy footwear is best for rocky paths. +1
📶 Trail Navigation
Trails are well-marked, so GPS isn't always necessary, but signals can disappear higher up.
☕️ Nearby Cafes & Stays
Charming cafes and unique accommodations like Airbnb are available near the mountain.
⏰ Plan Your Return
Be aware of the last cable car and train times to avoid being stranded.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mount Mitake is praised as a beautiful and accessible nature retreat from Tokyo, with the Rock Garden and Musashi Mitake Shrine being major highlights. While some find it can get crowded, especially during peak seasons, many appreciate the tranquility and scenic beauty it offers. The ease of access via train and cable car makes it a popular choice for a day trip or an overnight stay.
"Very nice hike suitable for beginners! You can drive all the way up to the cable car because there’s a convenient parking lot. Kei cars might have some trouble driving to the top because it’s very steep lol be careful on icy days there’s lots of signs warning of slipping!"
Akira
"A wonderful hike up Mt. Mitake to visit the temple at the summit. Start by taking the ropeway up, then head to the tourist information counter to pick up maps and details about the trail. Be sure to visit the Rock Garden—it's a highlight of the hike. There's also a large rock you can climb for a bit of fun. The round trip takes about two hours."
Kee Lam Ho
"Great hiking and shrines to visit
Cable car is ¥600 one way saves 1 hour on foot, but the beautiful forest is worth the walk with all their sacred old trees"
Jordan Dukart-Anderson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Take the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station to Mitake Station (approx. 90 minutes). From Mitake Station, you can take a bus to the Mitake Tozan Cable Car station or enjoy a short walk.
Yes, it's considered one of the more accessible mountain escapes from Tokyo. The cable car significantly reduces the effort required to reach the summit.
The train journey from Shinjuku to Mitake Station typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the train. +1
Cycling is possible, with Route 411 being a recommended path. The incline becomes more significant closer to Ome Station.
It can get crowded, especially during peak seasons like autumn foliage and weekends. Weekdays and early mornings are less busy. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There's no entry fee for Mount Mitake itself. However, you'll need to purchase tickets for the Mitake Tozan Cable Car if you choose to use it.
Operating hours vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Mitake Tozan Railway website for the most up-to-date schedule before your visit.
Entry to Musashi Mitake Shrine is generally free, though donations are appreciated.
Yes, you can hike the entire way from the base. However, the cable car is a popular option to save time and energy.
Yes, there are lodges and guesthouses on the mountain, offering a unique overnight experience.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Rock Garden trail is highly recommended for its natural beauty. Other trails lead to the summit and offer different scenic views.
For the main tourist routes, athletic shoes are usually sufficient. However, if you plan on exploring more rugged paths, proper hiking shoes are advisable. +1
Yes, Mount Mitake is generally considered suitable for beginner hikers, especially when using the cable car and sticking to well-maintained paths.
The Rock Garden is a beautiful, moss-covered area with unique rock formations and a peaceful stream, offering a tranquil escape.
Restrooms are available at the cable car stations, the shrine area, and some lodges. It's always a good idea to carry tissues and hand sanitizer.
📸 📸 Photography
The views from the summit near Musashi Mitake Shrine are stunning. The Rock Garden also offers beautiful, atmospheric shots.
Early morning light can be magical, especially with mist. Autumn foliage provides vibrant colors for photographers.
Drone usage is generally restricted in natural parks and near shrines. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and forest scenery. A macro lens can be useful for the moss and rock details in the Rock Garden.
Don't miss the panoramic views from the summit and the unique textures of the moss-covered rocks in the Rock Garden.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, as options can be limited on the mountain. Ensure children wear comfortable shoes, and be mindful of the last cable car and train times for a smooth return journey. The shrine area also provides a good spot for a picnic with a view.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Hiking the trails without the cable car is free, though it will require more time and energy. Consider visiting on a weekday to potentially find more affordable accommodation if you decide to stay overnight.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
While the main tourist paths are well-maintained, exploring further afield requires proper hiking gear and preparation. The autumn foliage season is particularly stunning for photographers and nature lovers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Mount Mitake: Trails and Transport
For those seeking a more challenging experience, longer hiking routes connect Mount Mitake to surrounding peaks like Mount Kumotori or lead down to Okutama Station. These trails can be more strenuous and may require a full day or even an overnight stay. It's crucial to research these longer routes beforehand and be prepared with appropriate gear and supplies.
When planning your transport, the JR Chuo Line is the primary way to reach Mitake Station from central Tokyo. From there, local buses connect to the cable car base. Remember to check train and cable car schedules, especially for the return journey, to avoid any last-minute rushes.
The Serenity of the Rock Garden
Many visitors find the Rock Garden to be a refreshing contrast to the bustling city life of Tokyo. The soft, green moss and the sound of running water create a calming sensory experience. While the main path is well-maintained, some sections can be a bit slippery, especially after rain, so wearing appropriate footwear is recommended.
Photographers will find plenty of opportunities to capture the unique textures and colors of the Rock Garden. The dappled sunlight filtering through the trees adds to the magical ambiance. It's a place where you can easily spend an hour or more simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings.
Experiencing Musashi Mitake Shrine
From the shrine, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and, on clear days, even glimpses of Tokyo in the distance. It's a popular spot for both spiritual reflection and taking in the breathtaking scenery. The climb to the shrine is manageable, especially with the aid of the cable car.
Many visitors choose to stay overnight in lodges near the shrine, allowing for a more immersive experience. Waking up to the quiet mountain air and the spiritual atmosphere of the shrine can be a truly memorable part of a trip to Mount Mitake.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit