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ITINERARIES Mt. Takao—A Mountain of Surprises A short day-trip from Tokyo, Mt. Takao is an oasis of nature and culture

Escape Tokyo's busy center for a day of hiking, monkeys, panoramic views and hot springs

Mt. Takao is home to some particularly popular hiking trails in Tokyo. Along the many trails to the summit you will encounter monkeys, Buddhist temples, food stalls and gorgeous foliage, particularly in autumn and spring. A spectacular view of Mt. Fuji awaits you at the summit.

Ride Japan's steepest cable car

Visit a Buddhist mountain temple

See gorgeous views of Mt. Fuji

Meet some Japanese monkeys

Direct Keio trains to Takaosanguchi Station depart from Shinjuku Station

Start Your Journey

Mt. Takao Six hiking trails for beginners and intermediates

Mt. Takao has six trails leading to the summit of the mountain. This itinerary follows trail No. 1 which takes about 100 minutes to the top. For less ambitious hikers, there are a cable car and chairlift that will take you halfway up the mountain.

Along the way you will pass the Mt. Takao Monkey Park, home to over 90 monkeys. Taken a short break from hiking here to watch the monkeys climb and play in the trees. As you continue your hike you will pass the Wild Plant Garden, which showcases the many varieties of plants and flowers found around Mt. Takao.

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Trail No. 1 Hike along Trail No. 1 to see the best of Mt. Takao

Trail No. 1 brings you to Tako-sugi, or the octopus cedar, a giant tree whose roots shoot out above the ground like an octopus.

Further along the trail is Yakuoin, a Buddhist temple founded in 744. The Tengu of Yakunoin are guardian deities who protect and follow the principal object of worship at the temple, Izuna Daigongen. They bring good luck and ward off evil. The summit of Mt. Takao, with its clear views of distant Mt. Fuji, is a short walk from the temple.

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After you've descended the mountain, walk near Takaosanguchi Station

Takao 599 Museum Unwind after your hike

Visit Takao 599 at the bottom of the mountain to learn more about Mt. Takao's historical and cultural significance. The museum also showcases the many plants and animals native to Mt. Takao.

A soak in Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu next to Takaosanguchi Station, is the perfect end to a day of hiking. The spa has indoor and outdoor baths, massage services and a restaurant.