Mount Takao is a 599 m peak on the western edge of Tokyo with well-marked trails and a major temple. It is one of the most visited mountains in the world.
Mount Takao is a 599 m peak in Hachioji on the western edge of Tokyo, about 50 km from central Tokyo, and the journey from Shinjuku on the Keio Line to Takaosanguchi takes about 50 minutes for roughly 420 yen. It is one of the most visited mountains in the world, with well-marked trails and a major temple. Visitors choose between hiking from the base and riding the Takao Cable Car or Chairlift from Kiyotaki to Takaosan Station, which takes about six minutes and costs around 500 yen one way. Walking up takes about an hour. Trail 1 passes the Tako-sugi, a centuries-old cedar tree, and leads to Yakuo-in Temple, known for its tengu statues. Trail 6 follows a stream and includes a suspension bridge, making it a popular descent. At the summit, an observation area offers clear-day views of Mount Fuji and the Kanto plain, and a seasonal beer terrace operates at the cable car top station in summer. A one-day arc takes the Keio Line to Takaosanguchi in the morning, rides the cable car to the mid-station, walks to the summit via Trail 1 with a stop at Yakuo-in, has lunch at a summit restaurant for around 800 to 1,500 yen, and descends by Trail 6 or the cable car. The whole outing takes about three to four hours round trip. Keio Takaosan Onsen at the base offers a hot spring soak for about 1,200 yen for those wanting to finish the day with a bath. Autumn foliage from mid-November to early December is the most popular period, and weekends then see trails and cable cars packed, so early weekday starts are best. Winter offers the clearest Fuji views, and summer brings humid conditions.
| Distance | Approx. 50 km |
|---|---|
| Travel time | 50 minutes |
| Getting there | Keio Line from Shinjuku to Takaosanguchi (about 50 min, approx. ¥420 ($2.68)) |
| Cost | Approx. ¥840 ($5.35) return train plus ¥1,000 ($6.37) cable car — budget ¥2,000–4,000 ($13–25) total |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Address | 2205 Takaomachi, Hachioji, Tokyo 193-0844 |
How to get there
- Mode
- Keio Line (Shinjuku to Takaosanguchi)
- Duration
- 50 minutes
- Price
- ¥420 ($2.68)
- Notes
- Direct limited express; IC card accepted
- Mode
- Takao Cable Car or Chairlift (Kiyotaki to Takaosan Station)
- Duration
- 6 minutes
- Price
- ¥500 ($3.18)
- Notes
- One-way fare; walking takes about 1 hour
Location
2205 Takaomachi, Hachioji, Tokyo 193-0844
35.6252, 139.2436 View on map
Highlights
- Yakuo-in Temple - temple with tengu statues on the mountain
- Summit observation area - clear-day views of Mount Fuji and the Kanto plain
- Trail 6 - stream route with a suspension bridge
- Beer terrace (summer) - seasonal terrace at the cable car top station
- Tako-sugi - centuries-old cedar tree on Trail 1
Tips for visiting
- Take the Keio Line from Shinjuku to Takaosanguchi, with an IC card accepted.
- Start early on weekends in November, when queues for the cable car are long.
- Choose Trail 1 for the temple and Trail 6 for the stream and suspension bridge.
- Bring water and sturdy shoes, as paths include steps and uneven sections.
- Finish with a soak at Keio Takaosan Onsen next to the station.
When to visit
Mid-November to early December for autumn foliage and winter for clear Fuji views. Start early on weekends to avoid queues.
Accessibility
Trails involve steps, slopes and uneven ground, and the mountain is not suitable for wheelchair users beyond the paved area near the cable car base. The cable car shortens the climb for those with limited mobility.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to hike Mount Takao?
The ascent takes about an hour from the cable car base and the full round trip is around three to four hours.
How do I get to Mount Takao from Tokyo?
The Keio Line from Shinjuku to Takaosanguchi takes about 50 minutes.
Is the cable car worth it?
It saves about an hour of climbing for roughly 500 yen one way, though lines form on autumn weekends.
Can Mount Fuji be seen from the summit?
On clear days, particularly in winter, the summit observation area offers views of Mount Fuji.