Hachioji Trip Overview
Mt. Takao is the most popular climbing spot in the Kanto area, located about 50 kilometers west of the city center. It is a wonderful mountain, designated as Michelin three star spot along with Mt. Fuji in 2007, and it’s a national park where you can leisurely enjoy mountain hiking even on a day trip. The mountain has been especially important to Japanese since 744, when Emperor Shomu commanded the creation of Yakushiji, a famous temple, and thereby encouraged followers to come to the mountain. Known as one of Tokyo’s best outlooks, the view from the observation deck is of a big panorama overlooking the Kanto Plain, with skyscrapers in the distance. Leave the hustle and bustle of the city for a rejuvinating day where you’ll connect with nature in a spiritual setting.
Additional Info
Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes
Starts: Hachioji, Japan
Trip Category: Outdoor Activities >> Hiking & Camping
Explore Hachioji Promoted Experiences
What to Expect When Visiting Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan
Mt. Takao is the most popular climbing spot in the Kanto area, located about 50 kilometers west of the city center. It is a wonderful mountain, designated as Michelin three star spot along with Mt. Fuji in 2007, and it’s a national park where you can leisurely enjoy mountain hiking even on a day trip. The mountain has been especially important to Japanese since 744, when Emperor Shomu commanded the creation of Yakushiji, a famous temple, and thereby encouraged followers to come to the mountain. Known as one of Tokyo’s best outlooks, the view from the observation deck is of a big panorama overlooking the Kanto Plain, with skyscrapers in the distance. Leave the hustle and bustle of the city for a rejuvinating day where you’ll connect with nature in a spiritual setting.
Itinerary
Takao 599 Museum (9:05-9:30)
At 599m tall, Mt. Takao isn’t particularly tall, however it is filled with abundant flora and fauna and covered in hiking trails, both accessible concreted trails and wild dirt tracks far off the beaten path. First you will walk to the Takao 599 Museum where you can learn about the plants and animals that inhabit this mountain. Watch a beautiful 3D lightup showing the four seasons of Takao, and feel free to ask your guide any questions you may have.
Hike Mt. Takao (9:30-13:30)
After the museum, you will then begin your ascent of Mt. Takao. The trails range in difficulty from easy to serious hiker so let your guide know what you prefer. On the way up, the guide will offer explanations of the wildlife you encounter, the views and the Budhhist and Shinto shrines and statues you’ll see along the way. At any point along the trail you can stop for a breather, or to have a snack and a drink.
Yakuo-in Temple (11:00)
Takaosan Onsen (13:30-14:30)
Stop At:
• Mt. Takao, Hachioji Tokyo Prefecture
• Takaosan Yakuo-in Yuki-ji Temple, 2177 Takaomachi, Hachioji 193-0844 Tokyo Prefecture
• Mt. Takaosan Hiking Course, Takaomachi, Hachioji Tokyo Prefecture
• Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu, 2229-7 Takaomachi, Hachioji 193-0844 Tokyo Prefecture
• Takao 599 Museum, 2435-3 Takaomachi, Hachioji 193-0844 Tokyo Prefecture
