Located in Hachioji City in western Tokyo, Mount Takao rises 599 meters and was awarded three stars in the Michelin Guide in 2007 for its easy accessibility (about one hour by train from central Tokyo (Shinjuku)) and abundant vegetation. The mountain boasts the highest number of climbers in Japan, and is visited by many people from Japan and abroad.
About Mount Takao
Mount Takao has been known as a sacred mountain since the Edo period (1603-1868), and Takao-san Yakuo-in (Official name: Mount Takao Yakuoin Uki-ji Temple) is located halfway up the mountain.
Yakuo-in’s Torii gate
Izuna Gongen-do Hall
Founded in 744, Takao-san Yakuo-in is a historic temple known as the head temple of the Chizan school of Shingon Buddhism.
At Takao-san Yakuo-in, a legendary creature from Japanese folklore called a Tengu is enshrined, and statues of Tengu can be seen within the temple grounds. Tengu are believed to be responsible for bringing many blessings, such as good luck and protection from evil.
Statue of Tengu
To reach the summit of Mount Takao, there are several trails with varying degrees of difficulty, allowing both beginners and experienced climbers to enjoy hiking the mountain.
Cable car
The cable car or lift can be taken from the summit to the middle of the mountain, and the path from the middle of the mountain to the summit is paved, making access to the summit easy.
The route from the foot of the mountain to the summit takes about one and a half hours.
Top of Mount Takao
Main Points of Interest
Mount Fuji seen from Mount Takao
Takao offers a rich variety of vegetation, and on a clear day, from the observatory you can see the buildings of central Tokyo, Tokyo Bay, and Mt Fuji.
At the end of the cable car, there is a beer buffet, a souvenir shop, and a monkey garden.
There are several teahouses along the way, including at the top of Mt Takao.
Tenguyaki
Also, next to Takaoyamaguchi Station, there is a hot spring facility called Gokurakuyu, which is recommended to relieve the fatigue of hiking in the mountains.
INFORMATION
NAME
Mount Takao (高尾山)
BUSINESS DAY
Every day
ADDRESS
Takaomachi, Hachioji, Tokyo 193-0844
ACCESS
4-minute walk from Takaosanguchi Station.
STATION INFO
(Keio Railway) Takaosanguchi Station
Keio Line
LINK