Mount Takao — Attraction in Tokyo

This was really fun! Would come back.

I booked a ticket on Klook that included tickets for the train, monkey park and garden. I was very confused as to how to get to Mt Takao but luckily one of the staff from an information counter explained it to me. Basically you have to take the Keio line (red line) but there are trains at certain timings that go all the way to the entrance of Mt Takao. If you decide not to take the trains at those timings, you have to change trains at least once. It would be good to ask the station staff if you are unsure of which timing to take the train at. From Shinjuku to the last stop where I got off at, it took around 50mins.

There are quite a number of shops and eateries at the base of the mountain. Get some money ready because some of these eateries look really good (a pity I didn't have enough time to explore them!). Make your way up and you'll soon see a stop that includes a toilet and entrances to the cable car and chair lift.

I was pleasantly surprised because there was no queue for the chair lift. I went up a few flights of stairs and managed to take a chair lift almost immediately. Let me also say that if you have severe acrophobia, it would be best not to take the chair lift. At a certain point in time, your legs are dangling while there's only a net and little vegetation below. Also, going up on the chairlift is not the main issue. It's going down - I saw multiple people put their hands over their faces while going down because it can get really steep and scary. There'll also be a photographer who will help to take photos and they'll print your photo out for you when you reach the middle of the mountain, which is where you alight from the chair lift.

Along the route to the top of the mountain, there will be many things to see and do. I spotted quite a number of shops selling dango and one stick is actually quite big - if your appetite is smaller, you can share it with your family or friends. Mt Takao also has a monkey park and garden which I thought was really nice. You can even feed the monkeys for a small fee! Near the top of the mountain, there'll be a temple. They sell amulets as well, which I got because I love amulets. I also spotted a shop that sold nuts and other types of food.

When I reached the top of the mountain (finally!), it was as if I had trudged into a sea...a sea of people. It was so, so crowded. I decided to pop into a restaurant (yes, there's a restaurant at the top of the mountain) and the food was not bad.

One necessity that is sometimes forgotten is insect repellent. Really, this is a must bring. I never expected so many insects on this mountain. It was quite hot as well - I took off my jacket because I...

One of the key attractions of Mount Takao is its accessibility. It's easily reachable from central Tokyo, with a direct train line connecting it to Shinjuku Station in about 50 minutes. This makes it a convenient day trip option for those looking to explore nature without extensive travel.

It boasts an array of hiking trails catering to all levels of fitness and hiking experience. Trail 1, the most popular route, offers a leisurely ascent with well-maintained pathways and plenty of resting spots along the way. It's ideal for families, casual hikers, or those seeking a relaxed stroll amidst nature's splendor. On the other hand, Trail 6 presents a more challenging trek, featuring steep inclines, rocky terrain, and panoramic viewpoints that reward seasoned adventurers with unparalleled vistas of the surrounding landscape.

Before embarking on your journey, it's essential to consider the weather conditions and pack accordingly. Mount Takao's climate can be unpredictable, so checking the forecast beforehand is advisable. Be sure to dress in layers, wear sturdy hiking shoes, and pack essentials such as water, snacks, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable hike.

For those seeking a more leisurely ascent or traveling with young children or elderly companions, the Takao San Ropeway provides a convenient alternative to reach the mountain's midway point. From there, visitors can continue their journey on foot or enjoy a scenic ride on the chairlift to the summit.

Reaching the peak of Mount Takao is a moment of triumph and awe, as panoramic vistas unfold before your eyes, stretching across the Kanto region and beyond. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of iconic landmarks such as Mount Fuji in the distance, adding to the sense of wonder and reverence for nature's majesty.

As you explore the mountain, take time to immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage. Visit the Takao-san Yakuo-in Temple, a sacred Buddhist sanctuary nestled amidst the forest, where visitors can partake in rituals, admire ancient architecture, and seek blessings for health and prosperity. The temple's serene ambiance and centuries-old traditions offer a glimpse into Japan's spiritual heritage, adding depth and meaning to your Mount Takao experience.

Before descending the mountain, be sure to refuel with a taste of local cuisine at one of the charming restaurants or food stalls lining the trails. Indulge in Takao's specialty dishes, such as "dango" (grilled mochi skewers), savory "soba" noodles, or refreshing "amazake" (sweet rice drink), sourced from fresh, seasonal ingredients that reflect the...

Hiking Trail 6 upwards and descending through Trail 1 and then taken chair lift to the base station. We hiked in Aug 24, 2024! A cloudy day.

Weather was cool and a little sunny which was totally bearable. We chose Trail 6 because we wanted a nature trail and walk through the waterfalls. This trail is more of surprises. Stony path, ponds and water flowing areas, waterfalls, buzzing bees, and huge trees and their roots, 100s of steps and wet lands. The are information board and it will lead us through correct trails.

Trail is does not have any food stalls or wending machines for drinks. It is advisable to carry your own.The whole walking trail is maintained well, and it is expected same from everyone using. Take your dust home.

I felt the most tiring part of this trail was climbing those 100s of steps. But otherwise the whole hike was the best experience.

There is emergency service in case you feel ill, Trimble or have a fall in between your track and they are always available.

On the top, you have washroom, vending machine, food stalls and information center.

We took part in stamp collection rally. So we have to collect 5 stamps to get the wooden bamboo hand fan 🪭

Getting down we took Trail 1, it was through beautiful shrines. There is a food stall where I took sweet Tango. Then as it started heavily raining we took chairlift. The cost for one side was ¥450 per person. It was a nice experience. They close at 16:30.

Our experience with whole trek was pretty convenient, information desk is very helpful as they tell you every detail of the trail (if your hiking first time, I suggest to visit the information desk at the Takaosanguchi station). Carry on energy food and drinks, have an umbrella handy (weather might...