Mount Takao: Tokyo's Favourite Mountain Walk
How to climb Mount Takao from Tokyo: the hiking trails, the cable car, Yakuoin temple and its tengu, views of Mount Fuji and the best time to go.
Quick answer
- What it is: a 599 metre mountain in western Tokyo, inside Meiji no Mori Takao Quasi-National Park.
- Famous for: easy trails, the Yakuoin temple and views of Mount Fuji.
- Access: about 1 hour from Shinjuku on the Keio Line.
- Time needed: half a day.
- Best time: November for autumn colour, or clear winter days for Fuji.
- Map: Open Mount Takao in Google Maps
Mount Takao is where Tokyo goes to breathe. Just an hour from the skyscrapers of Shinjuku, forest trails climb past a mountain temple to a summit with Mount Fuji on the horizon.
Why Mount Takao is a wonder
Takao has been a sacred mountain for over a thousand years. Its forests hold more plant species than many larger mountains, thanks to the protection of its temple.
Yakuoin, the temple near the top, is guarded by statues of tengu, long-nosed mountain spirits. Pilgrims and hikers ring its bells and pray for safe travels.
Trails for every pace
Trail 1 is a paved path past the temple, the easiest way up. Trail 6 follows a stream through the forest and is more natural.
A cable car and a chairlift cover the lower half, so you can ride up and walk down, or the other way round.
Ways up
| Route | What you get | Time up (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Trail 1 | A paved path past Yakuoin | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Trail 6 | A forest and stream path | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Inariyama Trail | A ridge path with views | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Cable car | A steep ride to the midpoint | 6 minutes |
| Chairlift | An open-air ride beside the cable car | 12 minutes |
When to go
- Mid to late November: autumn colour and big weekend crowds.
- December to February: clear air and the best Fuji views.
- Spring: fresh green and wild flowers.
- Weekdays: far fewer hikers than at weekends.
Our tip: Around the winter solstice, the sun sets right behind Mount Fuji as seen from nearby Mount Shiro and the Takao summit. It is called Diamond Fuji.
Getting there
- From Shinjuku: about 1 hour on the Keio Line to Takaosanguchi Station.
- From Takaosanguchi: the cable car station is about 5 minutes' walk away.
- JR option: Takao Station on the Chuo Line, then one stop on the Keio Line.
Hiking responsibly
- Wear proper shoes, as forest trails can be muddy.
- Take your rubbish home. There are few bins on the mountain.
- Bow and keep quiet in the temple areas.
- Check cable car times before you go.
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Mount Takao?
599 metres.
How long does it take to climb Mount Takao?
About 1 hour 30 minutes up on foot.
Can you see Mount Fuji from Takao?
Yes, on clear days, especially in winter.
Is Mount Takao good for beginners?
Yes. Trail 1 is paved and there is a cable car.
Lake Kawaguchiko
The classic view of Mount Fuji rising over a calm lake.
We check this guide regularly. Prices, hours and rules in Japan can change, so confirm with the official sources below before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.