Mt. Takao, which is a part of Tokyo, is a beloved destination for nature enthusiasts and city dwellers looking for a quick escape. This easily accessible mountain offers a perfect day trip for those seeking a blend of hiking, relaxation, and stunning natural beauty. In addition to its scenic beauty, Mt. Takao is home to various attractions, including a Monkey Park, the Takao 599 Museum, an onsen (hot spring) facility called Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu, and the serene Yakuoin Temple, making it a diverse and captivating destination.
Access from Tokyo to Mt. Takao
Mt. Takao is conveniently located and easily accessible from Tokyo.
Train: From Shinjuku Station, take the Keio Line to Takaosanguchi Station, which is the gateway to Mt. Takao. The journey takes approximately 50 minutes, making it a great option for a day trip from the bustling city. If you have a JR Pass, you can use the Chuo Line from Shinjuku to Takao Station.
What You Can Do
Hiking: Mt. Takao boasts a network of well-maintained hiking trails suitable for all levels of hikers. The most popular route is the paved Takaosan Senbonzakura Trail, which leads to the summit. It's relatively easy and offers fantastic views along the way.
Scenic Chairlift or Cable Car Ride: For those who prefer a more leisurely ascent, you can take a chairlift or cable car to the halfway point. The ride provides breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Visit Yakuoin Temple: At the summit, you'll find the Yakuoin Temple. It's a serene place to explore and offers beautiful views.
Monkey Park: The Mt. Takao Monkey Park is a fascinating attraction where you can observe Japanese macaques in a natural environment. Visitors can feed these curious creatures while maintaining a safe distance.
Takao 599 Museum: Located near the station, this museum is dedicated to the natural and cultural history of Mt. Takao. It's a great place to learn more about the mountain's flora, fauna, and history through interactive exhibits.
Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu: After your hike, relax and rejuvenate at this hot spring facility, conveniently located near the train station. It offers various pools, baths, and relaxation areas.
Approximate Cost
The cost of a day trip to Mt. Takao can vary, but here's a rough estimate:
Round-trip train fare from Shinjuku to Takaosanguchi Station: ¥600-¥700 (varies depending on the type of ticket).
Chairlift or cable car ride: ¥490 (one way) or ¥950 (round trip).
Food, entrance to attractions, onsen, and miscellaneous expenses: ¥2,500-¥5,000.
Including all attractions, you can enjoy a day at Mt. Takao for around ¥3,500-¥6,000 per person.
Must-Try Foods
Tenguyaki: Start your day or finish hiking with a sweet treat! Tenguyaki is a popular snack on Mt. Takao. These are ball-shaped pancakes or waffles, often filled with sweet red bean paste or other fillings. They are available at various stalls and shops near the mountain's base.
Dango: As you explore Yakuoin Temple and the summit of Mt. Takao, keep an eye out for dango, a traditional Japanese sweet. These skewered rice dumplings come in various flavors and coatings, including soy sauce, sweet soy glaze, or sweet kinako (roasted soybean flour). Dango stalls can often be found near temples and hiking trails.
Trip Itinerary
Morning:
10:00 AM: Depart from Shinjuku Station
Start your day trip from Shinjuku Station, a major transportation hub in Tokyo. Make sure you have comfortable hiking attire, some snacks, and a water bottle with you.
11:00 AM: Arrive at Takanosanguchi Station
After a scenic train ride from Shinjuku, you'll arrive at Takanosanguchi Station, the gateway to Mt. Takao. Take a moment to check the local area for any last-minute supplies or souvenirs.
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM: Begin Your Ascent
Depending on your preference, either start your hike up Mt. Takao or take the chairlift/cable car to the halfway point. Be sure to capture the beautiful natural surroundings with photos along the way.
Afternoon:
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM: Explore Yakuoin Temple
Yakuoin Temple is a serene and culturally significant spot on Mt. Takao. Take your time to explore the temple grounds, admire the architecture, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM: Continue to the Summit
Resume your hike or take the chairlift/cable car to reach the summit. The views become increasingly stunning as you ascend, so don't forget to pause and enjoy the scenery.
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Summit Views
At the summit of Mt. Takao, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo and the surrounding countryside. Take your time to relax, take photos, and maybe even enjoy a picnic if you brought some snacks.
3:30 PM - 5:00 PM: Relax at Gokurakuyu
After descending the mountain, head to Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu for some well-deserved relaxation. Enjoy the soothing hot springs, saunas, and other facilities at this rejuvenating onsen.
Evening:
5:30 PM: Return to Shinjuku Station
Conclude your day trip and return to Shinjuku Station in the evening. Reflect on your memorable adventure on Mt. Takao as you head back to the bustling heart of Tokyo.
Nearby Attractions
Okutama: Okutama is another beautiful and scenic area located in the western part of Tokyo. It's known for its pristine natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and tranquil atmosphere, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.
Conclusion
A day trip to Mt. Takao offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, allowing you to connect with nature, explore cultural sites, relax in an onsen, and savor delicious local cuisine. With the addition of the Monkey Park, Takao 599 Museum, Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu, and Yakuoin Temple, your visit to Mt. Takao becomes even more diverse and captivating, making it a perfect addition to your Tokyo itinerary.
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