Mount Takao (Takaosan, 599m) rises in Hachioji on the western edge of Tokyo and is one of the most accessible day-hike spots in the metropolis, reachable in about 50 minutes by train from central Tokyo. A Michelin Green Guide three-star site, it draws roughly 3 million visitors a year, making it one of the most-climbed mountains in the world. A cable car and chairlift carry visitors halfway up, and on clear days the summit offers views of Mount Fuji.
Summit observation deck: on clear days you can see Mount Fuji and out toward Tokyo (views depend on weather)
Cable car and chairlift up to the mountain's midpoint; the cable car is famous for the steepest gradient in Japan and takes about 6 minutes
Takaosan Yakuoin Temple: a historic head temple of the Shingon sect and the spiritual heart of the mountain, set on the mountainside
Autumn foliage: peak color around late November makes it one of Tokyo's most popular koyo spots
Multiple hiking trails: seven routes including Trails No.1-6 and the Inariyama course; Trail No.1 is mostly paved and beginner-friendly
Good to know
SeasonLate-November foliage season and the early-May Golden Week and weekends get extremely crowded. Cable car queues grow long, so visit on a weekday or early in the morning.
SafetyTrails other than No.1, and paths in winter, can be slippery or rough. Wear proper trekking shoes rather than sneakers and carry enough water.
RulesMount Takao is the birthplace of Japan's 'carry your trash home' movement. There are almost no bins on the mountain, so take all your rubbish back down with you.
MannersStay on the marked trails to protect rare native plants. Much of the park is private land, so do not wander onto it.
SafetyWild monkeys, boar and deer live here. Outside the Monkey Park, keep your distance, never feed or touch the animals, and don't leave food out.
Practical info
Access: about 50 minutes from Shinjuku to Takaosanguchi Station on the Keio Line (around 430 yen). Cable car fares run roughly 490 yen one way / 950 yen round trip for adults, but fares, operating hours and chairlift service change by season, so check the Takao Tozan Railway official site for the latest before you go.
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