Mt. Takao is an ideal day-trip destination from Tokyo. The OlaChill editorial team compares 6 hiking trails in detail, from routes for beginners to those for seasoned hikers, and provides a complete guide to Yakuo-in Temple’s highlights, the summit beer garden, access, and ways to enjoy the mountain in every season.
Mt. Takao is an ideal day-trip destination from Tokyo. The OlaChill editorial team compares 6 hiking trails in detail, from routes for beginners to those for seasoned hikers, and provides a complete guide to Yakuo-in Temple’s highlights, the summit beer garden, access, and ways to enjoy the mountain in every season.
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From the vivid fresh greenery of spring and the autumn foliage that paints the mountain in brilliant colors to spectacular winter views of Mt. Fuji beneath crystal-clear skies, Mt. Takao, west of Tokyo, offers a beautiful face in every season. It has earned international acclaim, including three stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan, and stays busy with hikers and visitors throughout the year. Its accessibility is another major draw: the mountain is just about 1 hour from central Tokyo by train, making it an excellent destination for a day hike. As of 2026, its appeal remains as strong as ever. The OlaChill editorial team presents this complete guide to enjoying Mt. Takao to the fullest.
Getting to Mt. Takao: Your Gateway from Central Tokyo
Mt. Takao is exceptionally easy to reach from central Tokyo, making it an ideal destination for a day trip. Most visitors arrive by train, using either the Keio Line or the JR Chuo Line.
Nearest Stations, Travel Times & Fares
Keio Line “Takaosanguchi Station”
From Shinjuku Station, take a Keio Line “Semi Special Express” or “Special Express” train directly to “Takaosanguchi Station” in about 50 minutes. The one-way fare is 390 yen (as of 2026).
This is the most convenient option, with the most frequent service and direct access to the Mt. Takao Cable Car and chairlift stations.
JR Chuo Line “Takao Station”
From Shinjuku Station, take a JR Chuo Line “Chuo Special Rapid” or similar service to “Takao Station” in about 45 minutes. The one-way fare is 660 yen (as of 2026).
From “Takao Station,” you will need to transfer to the Keio Line and continue to “Takaosanguchi Station,” or take a bus (about 15 minutes, 190 yen).
This is one option for people living along the JR Chuo Line or using passes such as the Holiday Outing Pass.
Parking Information
If you arrive by car, several paid parking lots are available around Takaosanguchi Station.
Mt. Takao Yakuo-in Prayer Hall Parking Lot: 1,000 yen per day for standard-sized cars (as of 2026).
Mt. Takao Foothills Parking Lot: 300 yen per hour for standard-sized cars, up to 1,800 yen per day (as of 2026).
Weekends and peak sightseeing seasons are extremely crowded, and the lots often fill up, so using public transportation is strongly recommended.
Tips for a Smooth Visit & Points to Note
Leave early: Arriving early in the morning is especially advisable on weekends and during the autumn foliage season, as it helps you avoid crowds and makes it easier to find parking.
Prepare an IC card: With an IC card such as Suica or PASMO, you can enter and exit stations smoothly without the hassle of buying tickets.
Getting from the station: Exit Keio Takaosanguchi Station and you will find Kiyotaki Station, the departure point for the cable car and chairlift, immediately nearby. From JR Takao Station, you will need to transfer or take a bus.
How to Use the Mt. Takao Cable Car & Chairlift: Fares and More
For those who want to conserve energy or save time getting to the starting point of their Mt. Takao hike, the cable car and chairlift are convenient options.
Hours & Fares
Cable car and chairlift (as of 2026; checking the official website is recommended)
One-way fare: Adults 490 yen, children 250 yen
Round-trip fare: Adults 950 yen, children 480 yen
Operating hours: Hours vary by season and day of the week. Services normally run from around 8:00 a.m. to around 5:30 p.m., though they may be extended during busy periods. Be sure to check the latest operating information on the official website (Keio Takaosan Slopecar Co., Ltd.).
Travel time: The cable car takes about 6 minutes, while the chairlift takes about 12 minutes to reach the mountainside.
Which Should You Choose: the Cable Car or Chairlift?
Cable car:
It has the steepest incline in Japan and makes for an exhilarating ride.
It can be used comfortably even on rainy days, without being affected by the weather as much.
You can enjoy the scenery through the windows.
It is recommended for families with small children and people carrying a lot of luggage.
Chairlift:
Enjoy an open-air ride and the scenery while feeling the breeze.
During the fresh-greenery and autumn foliage seasons in particular, it feels like taking a stroll through the sky.
It can feel cold in winter, so be sure to dress warmly.
It is ideal for anyone who wants to take photos of the spectacular views or enjoy a more open-air experience.
Best Times to Ride & Points to Note
Avoid peak crowds: The cable car and chairlift stations can become extremely crowded on weekends and public holidays. Lines often form, especially in the morning and late afternoon, so allow plenty of time or aim for quieter periods, such as early morning or later in the afternoon.
Buy tickets in advance: Purchasing tickets at the counter may take time, so consider using online tickets or an IC card whenever possible.
Check operating conditions: Services may be suspended in strong winds or bad weather. It is important to check the operating status on the official website in advance.
6 Recommended Mt. Takao Hiking Trails: Find the Right Route for You
Mt. Takao has a variety of well-maintained hiking trails suitable for everyone from beginners to experienced hikers. Here, we compare and introduce 6 of the most popular routes.
Overview: This is Mt. Takao’s most popular trail. It is almost entirely paved, so it is easy to walk even in sneakers. It also serves as the approach to Yakuo-in Temple and is packed with highlights.
Distance: About 3.8km
Time required: About 100 minutes uphill, about 80 minutes downhill
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ (For beginners)
Highlights:
Cable Car and Chairlift Upper Stations: Located immediately after you get off.
Tako-sugi: A massive tree more than 450 years old, named because its roots resemble the legs of an octopus.
Joshinmon Gate: The entrance to the sacred grounds of Yakuo-in.
Yakuo-in Yuki-ji Temple: The historic temple that could be considered Mt. Takao’s main attraction.
Mt. Takao Summit: Offers spectacular views of Mt. Fuji, particularly on clear winter days.
Points to Note & Trail Etiquette: Although the trail is paved, it includes some steep slopes, so choose comfortable footwear. Since the route is used by many people, be considerate and give way to others.
2. Kasumidai Loop Trail (Trail 2): A Quiet Forest Route for Enjoying Nature
Overview: This loop trail branches off from Trail 1 and is maintained as a nature study route. It is relatively flat and recommended for anyone who wants to enjoy a forest walk.
Distance: About 0.9km
Time required: About 30 minutes
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ (For beginners)
Highlights:
Mt. Takao Nature Study Trail: Observe a wide variety of plants.
Birdwatching: Listen for wild birds in the peaceful surroundings.
Points to Note & Trail Etiquette: Some sections have unpaved dirt paths and stairs, so watch your footing.
3. Katsura Woods Trail (Trail 3): A Restful Walk Through Natural Forest
Overview: This route passes behind Yakuo-in and winds through rich natural forest. With relatively little elevation change, it is well suited to those looking for a quiet stroll.
Distance: About 2.4km
Time required: About 60 minutes uphill, about 50 minutes downhill
Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆ (For novice hikers)
Highlights:
Katsura Woods: A quiet forest filled with Japanese katsura trees.
Suspension Bridge (partial section): A short suspension bridge crosses part of the trail.
Points to Note & Trail Etiquette: Since the route is mainly unpaved, it can become slippery on rainy days.
4. Suspension Bridge Trail (Trail 4): An Exhilarating Walk in the Sky
Overview: This route crosses Miyama Bridge, Mt. Takao’s only suspension bridge. It passes through natural forest and is ideal for anyone looking for a little thrill.
Distance: About 1.5km
Time required: About 50 minutes uphill, about 40 minutes downhill
Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆ (For novice to intermediate hikers)
Highlights:
Miyama Bridge: Mt. Takao’s only suspension bridge. Enjoy a walk in the sky as you feel it gently sway.
Rich Natural Forest: Observe seasonal plants and wild birds.
Points to Note & Trail Etiquette: The number of people allowed on the bridge at one time is limited. Take care if you are uncomfortable with swaying bridges. Watch your footing particularly carefully on rainy or windy days.
5. Waterfall Trail (Trail 6): A Riverside Route Soothing with Streams and Waterfalls
Overview: This route passes Biwa Waterfall and Oyama Waterfall and follows a stream. It offers a stream-climbing-like experience and is ideal for anyone who wants to feel immersed in nature. It is especially refreshing when water levels are high.
Distance: About 3.3km
Time required: About 90 minutes uphill, about 70 minutes downhill
Difficulty: ★★★☆☆ (For intermediate hikers)
Highlights:
Biwa Waterfall and Oyama Waterfall: Beautiful waterfalls also known as sites for ascetic training in Shugendo.
Riverside Trail: Some sections require crossing stepping stones and log bridges, creating an adventurous atmosphere.
Points to Note & Trail Etiquette:
Waterproof, slip-resistant hiking boots are essential because the trail can be wet and slippery.
Some sections run through the stream, making sandals and high-heeled shoes dangerous.
Water levels may rise after heavy rain, so check the weather in advance.
Help protect nature by following trail etiquette, such as leaving stones and plants where they are and taking all trash with you.
6. Iroha Forest Trail: A Quiet Ridge Route for Experienced Hikers
Overview: This relatively quiet trail follows the ridge beyond the Mt. Takao summit, where there are fewer people. Enjoy a forest walk while observing a variety of trees.
Distance: About 1.5km (from the Mt. Takao summit)
Time required: About 60 minutes (from the Mt. Takao summit)
Difficulty: ★★★☆☆ (For experienced hikers)
Highlights:
Tree Observation: A variety of trees can be observed, named in connection with the 48 characters of the Japanese syllabary.
Quiet Forest: Compared with the other trails, fewer people visit this route, allowing you to enjoy nature in peace.
Points to Note & Trail Etiquette: Since the trail continues beyond the Mt. Takao summit, it requires stamina. Some sections are narrow, so be considerate and give way to others.
Tips for a Smooth Visit & Points to Note
Choose your route carefully: Consider your fitness level, experience, and the ages of your companions, and choose a route that is within your ability.
Wear hiking shoes: Slip-resistant hiking boots or trekking shoes are essential, particularly on Trail 6 and the Iroha Forest Trail.
Stay hydrated and take breaks: Drink water regularly and make sure to take appropriately timed breaks.
Watch for changing weather: Mountain weather can change quickly, so do not forget to bring rain gear.
Take all trash with you: To protect the natural environment, always carry your trash out with you.
Mt. Takao Yakuo-in Temple: A Tour of This Spiritual Power Spot
Yakuo-in Yuki-ji Temple, located on the mountainside of Mt. Takao, is one of the three major head temples of the Chisan School of Shingon Buddhism in the Kanto region. It is a historic temple also known for its tengu worship. Stop by during your hike to experience its solemn atmosphere.
Yakuo-in Hours & Fees
Hours: The temple grounds can be visited at any time, but the hours for accepting goma fire prayers and the amulet office vary by season and day. They are usually open from around 9:00 a.m. to around 4:00 p.m. (as of 2026; checking the official website is recommended).
Admission: Entry to the temple grounds is free. Goma fire prayers and shojin ryori vegetarian cuisine require separate fees.
Highlights
Sanmon and Niomon Gates: Impressive gates welcoming visitors with enormous tengu statues.
Main Hall: Enshrines Izuna Daigongen, the temple’s principal deity.
Daishi-do Hall: Dedicated to Kobo Daishi.
Izuna Gongen-do Hall: A gongen-zukuri shrine building with magnificent, ornate decoration.
Hachidai Ryuo-do Hall: Known as a spiritual power spot for financial luck and good fortune.
Enmusubi no Ki: A tree visited by people praying for good relationships.
Tengu Worship: Tengu statues and carvings appear throughout the grounds, creating an atmosphere unique to Mt. Takao.
Best Times to Visit
Early morning: It is relatively quiet, allowing you to explore at a leisurely pace.
Fresh greenery and autumn foliage seasons: The vermilion temple buildings create a beautiful contrast with the surrounding natural colors.
Setsubun Festival: Held every year in early February, attracting many worshippers.
Tips for a Smooth Visit & Points to Note
Clothing: Since this is a temple, avoid overly revealing clothing and visit in modest attire.
Photography etiquette: Photography is prohibited in some areas inside the halls. Follow posted instructions and be careful not to disturb other worshippers.
Shojin ryori: Yakuo-in offers shojin ryori by reservation. It is recommended as a special way to savor the blessings of Mt. Takao’s natural surroundings. Check the official website for details, and remember that advance reservations are required.
Summit Beer Garden: Summer Memories with Spectacular Views
Located on the mountainside just after getting off at Takaosan Station on the cable car, “Takaosan Beer Mount” is a popular beer garden that opens for a limited period every summer. The night view from an elevation of about 500m is something truly special and impossible to experience in central Tokyo.
Hours & Fees (Summer 2026; Checking the Official Website Is Recommended)
Operating period: Usually from around mid-June to around mid-October.
Hours:
Weekdays: 3:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
Saturdays, Sundays & public holidays: 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.
Last admission is around 7:30 p.m.
※Hours may change depending on weather and crowd conditions.
Fees: All-you-can-eat and all-you-can-drink buffet
Adults: Around 4,800 yen
Junior high school students: Around 3,500 yen
Elementary school students: Around 2,500 yen
Young children (ages 3 and over): Around 500 yen
※Sessions are limited to 2 hours.
※Prices may be revised each year, so be sure to check the official website for the latest information.
Highlights & Ways to Enjoy It
Panoramic views: Take in everything from the skyscrapers of Shinjuku to the nighttime scenery of the Tama area. The views from sunset into the evening are especially spectacular.
Wide selection of food and drinks: In addition to Japanese, Western, and Chinese buffet dishes, a variety of drinks are available, including beer, wine, sake, and soft drinks.
Open-air atmosphere: Enjoy food and drinks in a relaxed, open setting surrounded by the clear mountain air.
Best Times to Visit
Around sunset: The transition from sunset to the nighttime cityscape is particularly romantic and popular.
Weekday evenings: They tend to be relatively less crowded than weekends.
Days with summer festivals or fireworks displays: Fireworks may be visible in the distance.
Tips for a Smooth Visit & Points to Note
Reserve in advance: It can become extremely crowded on weekends and during consecutive holidays, and entry may be refused without a reservation. Advance reservations through the official website are strongly recommended.
Bring warm layers: Because of the elevation, evenings can feel chilly even in summer. Bringing something to wear over your clothes is advisable.
Last cable car and chairlift: If you plan to stay at the beer garden until late, be sure to check the final operating times for the cable car and chairlift. If you miss them, you will not be able to descend the mountain.
Drink responsibly: Drinking on the mountain requires particular care with your footing. Avoid excessive drinking and enjoy yourself safely.
No smoking: Smoking is prohibited inside Beer Mount. Please smoke only in designated areas.
Mt. Takao has something special to offer in every season, and you can discover something new whenever you visit.
Seasonal Highlights & Best Times to Visit
Spring (late March–May):
Highlights: Cherry blossoms (mountain cherries, Somei Yoshino, and others), fresh greenery, and wildflowers such as violets and dogtooth violets.
Best time: Mid-April to early May, when the fresh greenery is at its most beautiful.
Summer (June–August):
Highlights: Forest walks amid lush greenery, clear streams (Trail 6), and the beer garden.
Best time: Clear days after the rainy season, or an evening at the beer garden combined with a cool respite from the summer heat.
Autumn (late September–early December):
Highlights: Autumn foliage (maples, Japanese maples, ginkgo trees, and more), clear air, and spectacular views of Mt. Fuji.
Best time: The peak foliage period from mid-to-late November. This is also the busiest time.
Winter (mid-December–early March):
Highlights: The crisp, clear air makes the panoramic views of Mt. Fuji, the Tanzawa Mountains, the Chichibu Mountains, and more especially beautiful from the summit. Snowy scenery is also possible, though snowfall is rare.
Best time: Mornings on clear days from December to February.
Recommended Nearby Food
The area around Mt. Takao is home to many appealing restaurants that are perfect for a post-hike visit.
Tororo soba: Mt. Takao’s signature dish is tororo soba, soba noodles topped with grated mountain yam. Long-established soba restaurants are scattered around Takaosanguchi Station, each offering its own take on this local specialty.
Takahashiya: A long-established restaurant with more than 180 years of history. It is known for house-milled soba and natural grated mountain yam.
Sakaechaya: A relaxed soba restaurant located just steps from Takaosanguchi Station.
Shojin ryori: The shojin ryori served at Yakuo-in has a deeply satisfying flavor that makes the most of Mt. Takao’s natural bounty. Advance reservations are required, but it makes for a memorable experience.
Tengu-yaki: A large, imagawayaki-style cake shaped like a tengu’s face, sold at “Takaosan Sumika,” immediately beside Takaosan Station on the Mt. Takao Cable Car. It is generously filled with black soybean paste and makes the perfect post-hike snack.
Mt. Takao original craft beer: You can also enjoy craft beer produced by breweries around Mt. Takao. It makes a great souvenir as well.
Recommended Nearby Places to Stay (Also for an Overnight Stay After a Day Hike)
Mt. Takao can easily be enjoyed as a day trip, but if you would like to take your time in the area, the following accommodations and facilities are worth considering.
Takaone: A mixed-use facility directly connected to Takaosanguchi Station that also includes accommodation. With its cafés and shops, it is an extremely convenient base for hiking.
Keio Takaosan Onsen / Gokurakuyu: A day-use hot spring facility right next to Takaosanguchi Station. It is ideal for soothing tired muscles after a hike. While it does not offer accommodation, it also has an attached restaurant.
Business hotels and ryokan: Around Hachioji Station, you will find business hotels and city hotels, while hot-spring ryokan are also available a little farther afield.
Suggested Itineraries: Enjoy Mt. Takao in Half a Day or a Full Day
Mt. Takao can be enjoyed in many different ways depending on your fitness level, available time, and interests. Here are 2 sample itineraries recommended by the OlaChill editorial team.
Half-Day Itinerary (Time required: About 4 hours, including breaks)
Ideal for: Visitors who want a casual taste of Mt. Takao, those who are not confident in their stamina, or anyone short on time.
Itinerary:
Arrive at Keio Line Takaosanguchi Station (around 9:00 a.m.)
Board the cable car at Kiyotaki Station (about 6 minutes)
Arrive at Takaosan Station
Walk along Trail 1 (Omotesando Trail) toward Yakuo-in (about 30 minutes)
Visit Yakuo-in (about 45 minutes)
Continue to the summit and enjoy the scenery (about 30 minutes)
Have a light meal at the summit (about 30 minutes)
Take the chairlift downhill (about 12 minutes)
Arrive at Kiyotaki Station, then shop for souvenirs or enjoy a late lunch around Takaosanguchi Station, such as tororo soba
Head home
Why this itinerary works: By taking the cable car uphill and the chairlift downhill, you can efficiently visit Mt. Takao’s main attractions. There is ample time to visit Yakuo-in and enjoy the spectacular views from the summit.
Full-Day Itinerary (Time required: About 7 hours, including breaks)
Ideal for: Visitors who want to fully enjoy Mt. Takao’s natural surroundings or experience several different trails.
Itinerary:
Arrive at Keio Line Takaosanguchi Station (around 8:30 a.m.)
Head for the summit from Kiyotaki Station via Trail 6 (Waterfall Trail) (about 90 minutes)
Arrive at the summit, take in the views, and have an early lunch at one of the summit teahouses (about 60 minutes)
Follow Trail 4 (Suspension Bridge Trail) from the summit toward Yakuo-in (about 40 minutes)
Take your time visiting Yakuo-in (about 60 minutes)
Walk from Yakuo-in along Trail 1 (Omotesando Trail) to Takaosan Station on the cable car, viewing Tako-sugi and other attractions along the way (about 45 minutes)
Enjoy a light meal or take a break at Mt. Takao Beer Mount (summer only) (about 60 minutes)
Descend by cable car (about 6 minutes)
Relax at Keio Takaosan Onsen / Gokurakuyu near Takaosanguchi Station, then have dinner, such as tororo soba (about 2 hours)
Head home
Why this itinerary works: This route lets you experience Mt. Takao at its best—enjoying nature as you climb Trail 6, the thrill of the suspension bridge on Trail 4, and the history of Yakuo-in along Trail 1. If you have extra time, you can also relax at Beer Mount or the hot springs.
Tips for a Smooth Visit & Points to Note
Manage your condition beforehand: Make a realistic plan and begin your hike well rested and in good health.
Pack carefully: Be sure to bring seasonally appropriate clothing, rain gear, drinks, snacks, and any regular medication.
Check timetables: Check the final operating times for the cable car and chairlift, as well as train timetables, in advance.
Allow plenty of time: Plans do not always proceed as expected, so it is important to build some extra time into your schedule.
Summary: Key Points to Remember
The OlaChill editorial team has compiled 5 particularly important points to keep in mind when planning a day hike on Mt. Takao.
The Keio Line is the most convenient option: Taking the Keio Line to “Takaosanguchi Station,” which is about 1 hour from central Tokyo, is the smoothest and most time- efficient option.
