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Mount Takao is a picturesque mountain located in Hachioji City, Tokyo, Japan. With an elevation of 599 meters, it is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Offering breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery, it’s the perfect spot for a day trip from Tokyo! The mountain is known for its lush forests, diverse flora and fauna, and numerous hiking trails that cater to all levels of fitness.
Visitors can enjoy various attractions such as the Takaosan Monkey Park, the Yakuoin Temple, and the Trick Art Museum. Additionally, the mountain hosts various events throughout the year, including the Takaosan Fireworks Festival and the Takaosan Autumn Leaves Festival. Read this article to plan the perfect day trip to Mount Takao!
1 Where is Mount Takao?
Mount Takao is located in Hachioji City, Tokyo, Japan. It is easily accessible from Tokyo by train or bus. Here are some options for getting there:
- By train: Take the Keio Line from Shinjuku Station to Takaosanguchi Station. The journey takes about 50 minutes, and the train fare is around 390 yen. From Takaosanguchi Station, it’s a short walk to the cable car or chairlift that takes you to the summit of Mount Takao.
- By bus: Take the Keio Express Bus from Shinjuku Station to the Takaosan Bus Terminal. The journey takes about an hour and costs around 600 yen. From the bus terminal, it’s a short walk to the cable car or chairlift that takes you to the summit of Mount Takao.
- By car: Mount Takao is about an hour’s drive from central Tokyo, depending on traffic. There are several parking lots near the base of the mountain, but they can get crowded on weekends and holidays.
2 Take the Cable Car to the Top
The coolest way to make it up the trail for first timers would be to use the Mount Takao Cable Car. It is suitable for people of all ages and gives you an amazing way of the way up. The cable car provides a convenient and comfortable way to reach the mountain’s halfway point, reducing the walking time from the base of the mountain to the peak by approximately 40 minutes.
Running every 15 minutes, you do not have to worry about missing your next car. I highly encourage you to buy the 1-day pass on Klook which gives you a ride up and down or a go at the amazing chairlift which felt quite safe to me.
The Mount Takao cable car has a total length of 1,342 meters and takes approximately six minutes to reach the summit. It can accommodate up to 101 passengers and provides a stunning view of the surrounding forests, rivers, and the Tokyo cityscape.
How Often Does the Mount Takao Cable Car Run?
The Mount Takao Cable Car operates daily, including weekends and holidays, throughout the year, with some exceptions due to maintenance or weather conditions.
The cable car usually runs every 15 minutes during peak season (spring and autumn) and every 20 minutes during the off-season (winter and summer). However, please note that the frequency may vary depending on the day of the week, time of day, and weather conditions.
The cable car typically operates from early morning to late afternoon, with the first cable car departing at around 8:00 AM and the last cable car departing at around 5:30 PM. However, the opening hours may vary slightly depending on the season and specific day. It is recommended to check the official website of Mount Takao Cable Car for the most up-to-date information on the schedule and opening hours.
How to Book a Ticket for the Mount Takao Cable Car?
You can buy your tickets at the cable car station or online which is really convenient if you’re a visitor or tourist! The online 1-day pass only costs USD12.59 or JPY¥1,690 as of writing this article.
3 Head Back With the Cool Mount Takao Chairlift
The Mount Takao Chairlift is an essential attraction for visitors looking for a unique way to experience the beauty of Mount Takao. The chairlift offers a picturesque and comfortable ride, taking visitors on a scenic journey up the mountain while enjoying breathtaking views of the natural surroundings. With its distinctive red and yellow chairs, the Mount Takao Chairlift is not just a mode of transportation but also an exciting and enjoyable activity for the whole family.
It’s an excellent option for those who prefer a more relaxed pace and those who want to take in stunning landscapes from a higher vantage point.
I personally really enjoyed the slow pace of going back down on the chairlift while enjoying the breathtaking views of the lush woods and the other brightly coloured chairs. The ride back down was much slower than the cable car but the longer time on those chairs is certainly welcome given the relaxing nature of the ride!!
What Are the Operating Hours of the Mount Takao Chairlift?
The operating hours of the Mount Takao Chairlift are subject to change depending on the season, weather conditions, and other factors. Generally, the chairlift operates daily from around 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM during the off-season (winter and summer) and from around 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM during peak season (spring and autumn).
Important Note About the Chairlift!
It’s important to note that the last chairlift departure time may vary depending on the time of year and the number of visitors. It’s always a good idea to check the official website or contact the Mount Takao Cable Car and Chairlift company directly for the most up-to-date information on the operating hours of the chairlift.
4 7 Hiking Trails to the Summit of Mount Takao
Mount Takao offers visitors several hiking trails that lead to the summit, each with its unique features and level of difficulty. The most popular trails are Trail 1 and Trail 6. Trail 1 is the most direct route to the summit and can be completed in approximately 90 minutes. The trail features several steep sections, but it is generally considered to be an easy to moderate hike.
Trail 6 is a more leisurely option that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and can be completed in approximately two hours. The trail is mostly flat and is an excellent option for families with children or those who want to take their time and enjoy the scenery.
Other trails, such as Trails 2, 3, 4, and 5, offer more challenging terrain and longer completion times, ranging from two to four hours. Regardless of which trail you choose, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the natural beauty of Mount Takao.
| Trail | Trail 1 – The Omotesando Trail | Trail 2 – Kasumidai Loop | Trail 3 – Katsura Woods Trail | Trail 4 – Suspension Bridge Trail | Trail 5 – Summit Loop Trail | Trail 6 – Biwa Waterfall Trail | Trail 7 – Inariyama Trail | Trail 8 – Mt Takao to Mt Jinba Trail |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Time Taken (round) | – 40 minutes up the road – 40 minutes down the road | – 30 minutes round | – 1 hour up the road – 50 minutes down the road | – 50 minutes up the road – 40 minutes down the road | – 30 minutes round | – 70 minutes from top to bottom | – 70 minutes from top to bottom | – 5 hours and 30 minutes from top of Mount Takao |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Easy | Moderate | Moderate | Easy | Difficult | Difficult | Very Difficult |
| Distance | 3.8km | 0.9km | 2.4km | 1.5km | 0.9km | 3.3 km | 3.2km | 17.2 km |
| Features to see | Yakuō-in Temple | Forests of Mount Takao | Occasional views, forests, streams | Miyamashi Suspension Bridge | Summit Views, Mount Fuji is visible on a clear day | Waterfall | Base to summit, flora and fauna (best for cherry blossom season and autumn) | Stunning views, great hike for experienced hikers, view of Mount Fuji on a clear day |
5 Tranquil Walking Paths to the Summit
6 View of Mount Fuji from Mount Takao
As if the stunning Mount Takao isn’t enough, on clear days, it is possible to see Mount Fuji from the summit of Mount Takao. You should note that visibility can be affected by weather conditions and other factors. Mount Takao is located about 60 kilometres (37 miles) west of Mount Fuji, so the view of the iconic mountain can be quite spectacular on a clear day.
If you’re lucky enough to catch a clear day with good visibility, you may be able to see Mount Fuji in the distance from one of the observation points at the summit of Mount Takao. However, it’s not guaranteed, so it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before planning a trip to Mount Takao if seeing Mount Fuji is a priority.
7 Takaosan Yakuō-in Temple at Mount Takao
Mount Takao is home to the Takaosan Yakuō-in Temple, a historic Buddhist temple complex that dates back to the 8th century. The temple is dedicated to Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of medicine and healing. The shrine is located near the summit of Mount Takao and is a popular pilgrimage site for visitors who come to pray for good health and well-being.
The temple complex features several halls and buildings, including the Main Hall, the Nio-mon Gate, and the Shingon-shu sect’s headquarters.
The Takaosan Yakuoin Temple is also home to several unique features, including a statue of a tengu, a mythical creature in Japanese folklore, and a popular firewalking ceremony held every year in March. The temple complex is open to visitors throughout the year and offers a peaceful and serene retreat from the bustling city of Tokyo.
8 Mount Takao Is a Must-Visit During Sakura Season!
I visited Mt Takao during my last days in 2023’s sakura season. I think this was the best decision I made. If you want to take a day trip from Tokyo during the next cherry blossom season, look no further! Look at these stunning cherry blossom trees I found at the summit!
9 Miyamashi Suspension Bridge
Since you’re doing a day trip to Mt Takao, you’ll have time to do a few of the short trails in one go and really explore this beautiful attraction. After visiting the summit, I went over to Trail 4 to check out the suspension bridge. It was pretty cool to be surrounded by such lush nature all around!
10 FAQs about Mount Takao
What’s the history of Mount Takao Cable Car?
The history of Mount Takao Cable Car dates back to 1927 when it was first opened to the public. At the time, it was the first cable car in Japan that used electric power and the third in the world.
The initial motive for building the cable car was to transport materials for the construction of a temple at the summit of the mountain. However, due to the growing popularity of Mount Takao as a tourist destination, the cable car soon became a popular attraction for visitors as well. Since then, it has undergone several renovations and upgrades to enhance its safety and functionality while maintaining its original charm and unique history.
What’s the history of Mount Takao Chairlift?
The Mount Takao Chairlift is a popular attraction in Tokyo, Japan that was first opened in 1957, making it one of the oldest chairlifts in the country. The original purpose of the chairlift was to transport materials and people to the construction site of a television relay station located at the summit of Mount Takao. However, the chairlift quickly became a popular attraction for visitors who wanted to enjoy the scenic views of the mountain without the strenuous hike.
Over the years, the Mount Takao Chairlift has undergone several renovations and upgrades, including the installation of new chairs and the addition of safety features. Today, it remains a beloved attraction for tourists and locals alike who want to experience the natural beauty of Mount Takao from a unique perspective.
Is Mt Takao worth it?
In my opinion, you should go to this destination for a day trip if you have time during your trip. Despite being a short distance away from Tokyo, it has a totally different vibe with lots of nature and tranquillity.
