Introduced by local experts! You can easily feel like a mountain girl or a mountain boy ♪ Start slowly in the morning and climb the mysterious Mt. Takao with sneakers!
The climbing itself is an easy day trip course that takes about 4 hours.
When you think of mountain climbing, you have the impression that you have to prepare special equipment in advance and leave early in the morning on the day, but you don't have to worry about that at Mt. Takao in Hachioji City, Tokyo!
You can climb the mountain with sneakers (*1) and a backpack (*2), and you don't have to be that early in the morning♪
Expect a wide variety of benefits at the natural monument and Takaosan Yakuo-in Temple!
This is a good-luck day-trip course that allows you to fully enjoy the mysterious nature and popular gourmet food unique to Mt. Takao, while also making mountain climbing easy.
This course will be introduced by volunteer guide Tameaki Sakamoto, a local expert who is your go-to when it comes to Mt. Takao.
(*1) It can be slippery the day after a rainy day, so wear non-slip sneakers or hiking shoes!
(*2) We recommend a backpack that leaves both hands free in case you fall.
★The photo shows a tengu at Takaosan Yakuo-in Temple.
Day 1
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10:00 ～
- Keio Electric Railway Takaosanguchi Station -
Keio Dentetsu Takao Sanguchi Eki
Buy rice balls to eat at the mountaintop at the station shop.
After exiting the ticket gate and heading to the right, you will find a Seven-Eleven Keio Takao Kaede store within the station premises.
Here, you can purchase rice balls for lunch to enjoy with the famous nameko mushroom soup at a teahouse near the mountain summit.
Please note that this store opens at 8:00 or 9:00 AM and closes at 4:00 or 5:00 PM, so be mindful of the operating hours!
※ Operating hours may vary depending on the day of the week or season. For more details, please refer to the link below.
★ The photo features volunteer guide Mr. Tameaki Sakamoto.
★ Recommended by Mr. Sakamoto ★
"For this course, this will be the last convenience store, so it’s a good idea to stock up on drinks, snacks, and other necessities here. Souvenirs are also available, so you might consider picking some up on your way back." -
5 minutes on foot
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10:20 ～
- Cable Car Kiyotaki Station -
Cable Car Kiyotaki Station
Ride the Cable Car
The cable car boasts the steepest incline in Japan at 31 degrees and 18 minutes. There are two vehicles, "Momiji-go" and "Aoba-go," so it’s exciting to see which one you’ll ride!
The ride takes only 6 minutes!
★ Recommended by Mr. Sakamoto ★
"In addition to the cable car, there is also a lift, but I recommend taking the cable car on the way up to experience the dynamic steep incline and using the lift on the way back."
※ The time listed below is "6 minutes by train," but the correct time is "6 minutes by cable car." -
6 minutes by train (6 minutes on the cable car)
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10:40 ～
- Cable Car Takaosan Station -
Cable Car Takaosan Station
After getting off the cable car, head to the "Kasumi Observation Deck"
After disembarking the cable car, before starting the hike, first head to the "Kasumi Observation Deck" located to the right of the station.
★ Recommended by Mr. Sakamoto ★
"If you use the lift on your return trip, you won't come back to this station, so take a commemorative photo with the retro station name sign in the background here. Make sure to capture your energetic smile before starting your hike!" -
1-minute walk
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10:45 ～
- Kasumi Observation Deck -
Kasumi Observation Deck
Enjoy the view before starting your hike!
Even though this spot is only halfway up the mountain, thanks to the steep incline of the cable car, you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the Kanto Plain below.
You’ll be facing towards central Tokyo and Yokohama. On clear days, you can see the Tokyo Skytree in Asakusa and skyscrapers in Minato Mirai!
After enjoying the view, start your hike towards the summit on Trail 1 (Omotesando Course).
★ Recommended by Mr. Sakamoto ★
"This is the first spot where you can enjoy the view after getting off the cable car. While there are other viewpoints along the trail, clouds can move quickly, so take in the view here. If you're into photography, this is a must-stop!" -
10:55 ～
- Juichichome Chaya -
Juichichome Chaya
Satisfy your hunger with Miso Oden while enjoying the Shonan view
The first eatery you'll encounter after starting the hike is Juichichome Chaya.
There’s a free observation space next to the shop and additional seating inside.
Enjoy a "Miso Oden" (350 yen for two pieces) while admiring the Shonan region view.
The Miso Oden is served chilled until September and warm starting in October, a thoughtful seasonal touch!
★ Recommended by Mr. Sakamoto ★
"On clear days, you can see as far as Enoshima and Yokohama. The miso has a perfectly balanced sweetness, and the texture of the konjac is delightful. It’s just right for a quick snack!" -
10-minute walk
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11:05 ～
- Tako Sugi & Hippare Tako -
Tako Sugi & Hippare Tako
A Natural Monument of Hachioji City! Rub the octopus head and get a blessing of good fortune♪
After leaving the Juuichichome Tea House and proceeding along Route 1, you will soon see a large cedar tree called "Tako Sugi."
It is named for its roots, which spread out like octopus tentacles.
According to legend, when the Tengu group tried to cut down this tree during the maintenance of the approach, its roots curled up overnight, making it no longer an obstacle.
The cedar tree visible in the background of the photo is said to be over 450 years old and has been designated as a natural monument of Hachioji City.
★ Sakamoto-san’s Recommendation ★
"Next to the cedar tree is the 'Hippare Tako' charm, as shown in the photo. Many people rub its head for good luck, but rubbing its legs is also recommended! The strong, sturdy legs of the octopus are believed to bring persistent and enduring fortune." -
5-minute walk
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11:15 ～
- Joshinmon and Otokozaka/Onnazaka -
Joshinmon to Otokozaka/Onnazaka
From here, after passing through Joshinmon, the sacred area, choose either Otoko-zaka or Onna-zaka.
As you head towards the summit from Takosugi, the mountain gate you will see right in front of you is Joshinmon.
This is the precincts of Takaosan Yakuo-in Temple, a sacred area, so brace yourself and proceed!
After passing through Joshinmon, you will arrive at a point where the path splits into two as shown in the photo.
If you go to the left, you will go up the steep ``Otokozaka'' consisting of 108 stone steps, and if you go to the right, you will go through the gentle slope-like ``Onnazaka'', but these roads merge at the top, so which way do you take? It's okay.
★Sakamoto-san's recommended points★
``It is said that going up the stairs of Otoko-zaka will remove your earthly desires, so we recommend going up Otoko-zaka.On the other hand, it is said that if you go down the stairs of Otoko-zaka on your way back, your earthly desires will return, so for your return trip, choose Onna-zaka. What do you think? Please be assured that the course we are introducing this time will not pass through these hills on the way back, so your earthly desires will not return.
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5 minutes on foot
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11:25 ～
- Tengu’s Resting Cedar -
Tengu no Koshikake Sugi
A natural monument of Tokyo, about 700 years old! A massive cedar where a tengu is said to sit.
It is said that the Tengu, the guardian deity of Mount Takao, watches over worshippers while resting on this cedar.
Bow respectfully toward the cedar and pray for a safe climb.
★ The cedar grove is designated as a natural monument of Tokyo.
★ Sakamoto-san’s Recommendation ★
"Tengu are often thought of as villains, but the tengu of Mount Takao are regarded as guardian deities and are not malevolent! You’ll find tengu statues everywhere, including on the platform at JR Takao Station, within the precincts of Takao-san Yakuou-in, and as souvenirs. This reflects their revered status." -
5-minute walk
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11:35 ～
- Takao-san Yakuou-in Temple -
Takao-san Yakuou-in
Pass through the Wish-Fulfilling Ring and purchase charms to gain blessings for good fortune!
Takao-san Yakuou-in is a landmark of Mount Takao and one of the three major temples of the Chizan School of Shingon Buddhism in the Kanto region. It consists of the Main Hall, Izuna Gongen Hall, Inner Shrine, and Grand Hall.
After cleansing your hands at the purification fountain, pass through the “Wish-Fulfilling Ring (Negai Kanau Wa Kuguri)” to dispel worldly desires. Then, strike the giant staff (Ooshakujou) beyond it and make a wish!
Don’t forget to silently recite your name and address while doing so.
After making your offering, purchase charms filled with blessings, and gain protection from misfortune and good fortune. Once you’ve completed your visit, continue on the path at the back of the temple to the summit.
★ Sakamoto-san’s Recommendation ★
"The colorful charms in the photo, along with various amulets and talismans, make it enjoyable to choose one. Not only do they provide blessings, but they also make great souvenirs of your visit. By the way, there are restroom facilities here as well." -
15-minute walk
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12:15 ～
- Summit Observatory -
Summit Observatory
Enjoy a spectacular view, including Mount Fuji, selected as one of the "Kanto Region's 100 Best Fuji Views."
You’ve reached the summit of Mount Takao at an elevation of 599.15 meters!
Start by taking a commemorative photo to celebrate your climb as a “Mountain Girl” or “Mountain Boy.”
The summit is a large plaza where many people enjoy lunch, but the lunch stop for this course is a bit further ahead.
At a slightly lower section visible in the background of the photo, there’s an observatory selected as one of the "Kanto Region's 100 Best Fuji Views," where you can see Mount Fuji on a clear day!
The spectacular view of Mount Fuji from the summit, with a sense of accomplishment from reaching the top, is truly special♪
After enjoying the summit atmosphere, head right before the observatory to aim for the Momiji-dai Observatory, where Hosodaya is located.
★ Sakamoto-san’s Recommendation ★
"The summit offers facilities such as an observatory, the Takao Summit Restaurant Yamabiko Chaya, and the Tokyo Takao Visitor Center. You can also find restrooms here. The Visitor Center allows you to learn about the natural environment of Mount Takao, enhancing your hiking experience. Plus, the air-conditioned interior is a refreshing place to relax." -
20-minute walk
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12:35 ～
- Momiji-dai Observatory -
Momiji-dai ObservatoryEnjoy exquisite Nameko Mushroom Soup at Hosodaya
This observatory offers stunning views of Mount Fuji and seasonal natural beauty.
Hosodaya, where you can enjoy the exquisite Nameko Mushroom Soup, is located in this serene area.
Pair the delicious soup with the rice balls you bought earlier in the day.
After your lunch break, proceed to the North Bypass Trail of Route 5.
★ Sakamoto-san’s Recommendation ★
"This peaceful spot, slightly away from the summit, offers an excellent reward for your effort—a delightful lunch! Please note that Hosodaya has irregular holidays, and the availability of Nameko Mushroom Soup is seasonal. It’s best to check their operating status beforehand." -
10-minute walk
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13:00 ～
- Final Restroom Stop Before Descending -
Final Restroom Stop Before Descending
A restroom equipped with a warm-water bidet!
Pass through the North Bypass Trail of Route 5, “Egawa Cedar,” and take a restroom break at the facilities located at the intersection of Routes 1, 4, and 5 before starting the descent.
These restrooms are equipped with the luxury of a warm-water bidet!
You can also drink fresh mountain water at the handwashing station.
After your restroom break, proceed to Route 4 (the Suspension Bridge Course).
It’s time to officially begin your descent!
★ Sakamoto-san’s Recommendation ★
"The restrooms at Mount Takao are incredibly clean! Additionally, many of them are equipped with warm-water bidets. If everyone considers the next user and keeps the restrooms clean, they can be a pleasant experience for all." -
15-minute walk
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13:15 ～
- Miyama Bridge (Suspension Bridge) -
Miyama Bridge (Suspension Bridge)
The only suspension bridge on Mount Takao!
Route 4 is lush with trees, including beeches, offering a natural forest bathing experience as you walk.
Enjoy the fresh air and make your way leisurely toward Josin-mon Gate.
Along the way, you’ll cross Miyama Bridge, which gently sways, providing a thrilling experience!
Don’t be afraid—take your time crossing it.
★ Sakamoto-san’s Recommendation ★
"This suspension bridge is so popular that some choose Route 4 specifically to cross it. It offers an exciting attraction-like experience on Mount Takao’s hiking courses. As shown in the photo, the bridge is well-supported with metal and wires, so it doesn’t sway as much as you might expect, depending on the weather." -
15-minute walk
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13:40 ～
- Josin-mon Gate -
Josin-mon Gate
Exiting the sacred area!
Reach the area you passed in the morning and feel relieved.
This marks your exit from the sacred grounds.
The lift station for descending is just ahead, so keep going!
★ Sakamoto-san’s Recommendation ★
"The unpaved mountain trail of Route 4 ends at Josin-mon Gate. From here, the path is paved, so the course I’m introducing becomes much easier after this point." -
20-minute walk
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14:00 ～
- Lift Upper Station -
Lift Upper Station
Enjoy the view below and a thrilling ride♪
Enjoy approximately 12 minutes of descending to the Lift Base Station while feeling the natural breeze of Mount Takao.
Although your feet are dangling, protective nets like those in the photo are in place in areas far above the mountain surface, so it’s not too scary!
★ Sakamoto-san’s Recommendation ★
"While we used the cable car for the ascent, I recommend taking the lift for the descent! Once you get off the lift, your descent is complete. This ride offers a final opportunity to experience the nature of Mount Takao. The dynamic views of the town below are unique to descending via the lift." -
12 minutes by train (approx. 12 minutes by lift)
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14:20 ～
- Lift Base Station -
Lift Base Station
Descent complete!
Once you get off the lift, your descent is complete!
Great job on completing the hike.
Treat yourself to the famous Tororo Soba and head towards Koshu Highway (National Route 20) along Omotesando Street.
★ Sakamoto-san’s Recommendation ★
"There are many restaurants and souvenir shops along the path. Browsing these shops as you walk is a lot of fun. However, some shops close early, so try not to go too late..." -
10-minute walk
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14:30 ～
- Nikko-ya -
Nikko-ya
A must-try specialty: Tororo Soba!
Once you reach Koshu Highway, cross the pedestrian crossing and turn left to arrive at Nikko-ya, a shop with a retro exterior!
Established about 80 years ago, half of the store is a dining area and the other half is a souvenir shop.
Here, you can enjoy the specialty Tororo Soba of Mount Takao♪
The Tororo here is a blend of Japanese yam and Chinese yam, giving it just the right amount of stickiness!
It clings to the firm noodles, and when mixed with a raw egg, it’s a delight for fans of sticky textures!!
The photo shows hot soba, but cold soba is also available, so choose based on the season or your mood◎♪
★ Sakamoto-san’s Recommendation ★
"After safely completing your hike, you’ll probably feel hungry, right? That’s when Tororo Soba is perfect! The hot Tororo Soba in the photo comes with green onions on the side, so you can add them as you like. The soy sauce-based broth has a rich flavor, which pairs perfectly with the Tororo, said to aid recovery from fatigue after hiking. It’s truly blissful." -
5-minute walk
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15:00 ～
- Takao 599 Museum -
Takao 599 Museum
Enjoy a post-meal tea break in the free space♪
Enjoy coffee or other drinks sold at the 599 CAFE inside the museum for a relaxing post-meal tea time♪
The 599 SHOP in the museum also sells items from famous brands, making them great as souvenirs◎.
★ Sakamoto-san’s Recommendation ★
"The bright, open space with large windows makes it a perfect spot to enjoy a moment before heading home. Besides coffee, colorful cream sodas are also available and recommended for those with a sweet tooth♪" -
5-minute walk
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16:00 ～
- Keio Railway Takao-Sanguchi Station -
Keio Railway Takao-Sanguchi Station
Heading home
After refreshing both mind and body through your hike, return home from Takao-Sanguchi Station feeling rejuvenated.
★ Sakamoto-san’s Comments ★
"I hope you enjoyed the course I introduced♪ This course allows even beginners to fully enjoy the nature of Mount Takao, but there are many other courses available, including those without using the cable car or lift, so feel free to visit as often as you like. Additionally, when you exit the ticket gate at Takao-Sanguchi Station and turn left, you’ll find the Takao-Sanguchi Tourist Information Center (nicknamed 'Musasabi House'), where you can get hiking maps and other useful information, so don’t hesitate to stop by on your way in or out!"
※ This information is as of October 2023. Business hours, closure dates, and other details are subject to change. Please check with the facilities for the latest updates.More details about Takao-Sanguchi Tourist Information Center