11 Tips to Know Before Hiking up Mt. Takao

There are eight main climbing courses for Mt. Takao, including nature research trails 1 to 6, the Mt. Inari course, and the traverse course of Mt. Takao and Mt. Jinba. Route 1 is the way to go if its your first time up Mt. Takao or if you’re still new to hiking.
On this trail you’ll find most of the roads are paved, so you can easily climb it wearing casual clothes and sneakers. Along the way you’ll find little spots just waiting for you to swing by, local eats and all the best of classic Mt. Takao adventures.
If you want a full-on hiking experience opt for Trail 6 and the Mt. Inari Course. Most of the paths are natural, reclaimed areas making it difficult for even the most advance of climbers.
Here’s a chart of how much time is needed depending on the trail.

Below are average temperatures to expect at the mountain summit charted based on average temperature’s from Hachioji, the city home of Mt. Takao. Check back when deciding what to wear to Mt. Takao.

Mt. Takao is a relatively easier mountain to climb, but towering at a height of 599m above sea level there can be a few steep paths along the way. The general weather and climate on the slope can easily shift when you least expect it.
In general, the easiest way to stay comfortable on the climb is to wear long pants and sleeves, just like with any other mountain.
If you have a mountain-ready jacket that’s water proof or serves as a windbreaker you’ll probably want to pack that as well, regardless of season.
The summit can drop to temperatures below 10℃, between the months of November and April so be sure to bring a long-sleeved shirt, fleece, sweater or winter jacket to stay warm during the colder season.
In summer (June-August) the average temperature near the summit stays around 20℃ so you may work up a sweat by the time you get there.
That’s why we always recommend sweat-wicking, long-sleeved gear that’s breathable. Don’t forget you might also want a hat as its sunny at the top.

Mt. Takao is a relatively easy to climb for even the newest of hikers, but don't get caught without the essentials. Remember to bring whatever items or attire needed to make your hike as comfortable as possible.
Below is a list of our recommended favorites that you’ll want to double-check for yourself before you hit the slopes.

Many hikers both veteran and novice alike keep Mt. Takao on their list because it’s a generally worry-free time on the mountain. The trails are complete with a large, clean restroom so you can take one less thing off your list. Along the trails and at the summit you’ll find a number of different rest areas available meaning you can take your time without needing to push yourself.
Along Trail 1 stands a shop selling local delights like “Tengu Yaki”, “Tengu Black Bean Manju” filled with black bean paste, as well as “Mitsufuku Dango”. All of them have just the right amount of sweetness, perfect for when your body needs a little extra boost. It also doubles as a perfect souvenir to bring home from your hike.

At Mt. Takao, everyone follows the same three basic rules of conduct: take your trash home with you, don't enter restricted areas (don't damage nature), and don't pick flowers, plants, or insects. Mt. Takao boasts one of Tokyo's most beautiful natural habitats, which is why its kept as such a precious place, protected for its wide variety of flora and fauna. The basic rule of mountain climbing is to be courteous towards your fellow man and greet each other as you walk. You may also hear people saying “douzo” to signal others can feel free to go ahead while trekking past narrow roads or straight stairs so everyone can get along.

No matter when you visit, Mt. Takao is a place for uncharacteristically natural beauty for Tokyo throughout the year.
Many would say the pinnacle season for scenic views is early to mid-April when the cherry blossoms are all in bloom.
From the foot of the mountain to the summit, the mountain is dyed with a gorgeous pink color centered around the mountain cherry and Somei Yoshino cherry trees, making for an extra cheery look and feel.
For the cheeriest of pom poms and bouncy cherry boughs, the trail from Mt. Takao to Mt. Kobotoke Shiroyama has a section flanked with cherry trees called “senbonzakura” (1,000 cherry trees) and the famous Itchodaira spot that remains a highly sought-after spot to catch the blossoms.
For fall foliage (usually from mid-November to early December) be sure to come back for a scenic look in an all new color. Thanks to the many different strains of Japanese maple the entire slope is washed in fall with a tapestry of color gradient including red, yellow, and yellow with a pop of green.
One of the absolute best views to find is the view of Mt. Fuji from the observation deck against a frame of breathtaking autumn leaves.

One of the reasons why Mt. Takao has become a popular tourist spot is not just for mountain climbing, but for the many things to see along the way.
On and around the mountain there are a number of different stops to swing by, making it an easy destination for adults and kids alike to enjoy.
One such spot is Takaosan Yakuo-in Temple, located halfway up the mountain and sought-after for its 1,200 years of historic prowess and tenured place as a power spot for people to visit each year.
Just around the corner from the mountain is Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu, a day springs located near Takaosanguchi Station that makes for a perfect place to drop in and melt away the wears and aches from your journey.
Your inner foodie will be glad to hear that there’s plenty to eat around Mt. Takao, including Sakae Chaya, a little shop with exquisite signature bowl of Yam Soba and Gomadokoro Gongen Chaya, topped with an irresistibly aromatic special sauce.

Since ancient times, Mt. Takao has been home to many legends and anecdotes related to tengu, said to have supernatural powers.
Tengu, which play a part in the Mt. Takao faith, have been deified as attendants of Izuna Daigongen, the principal image of Mt. Takao Yakuo-in.
Some go as far as to say that the famous “takosugi” bent cedar tree has a notch in its roots because its channeling the power of tengu.
Historically, Mt. Takao is maintained its status of Shugendo, a site for mountain worshipers as the link between Yamabushi pilgrims and tengu is especially deep.
Today most people hold tengu in high regard as guards against evil spirits.
Step onto the temple grounds and see for yourself as a number of different tengu and tengu motifs light up the space.

Here’s a chart with travel times and suggested ways to get to Mt. Takao from Shinjuku, an especially convenient station for travel from the city.
Be aware that the nearest station to Mt. Takao is Takaosanguchi Station, and while there is a “Takao Station” with a similar name it’s not the station you want.

Hikers will be happy to know the cable car and chair lift Kiyotaki and Sanroku Stations noted above are just a 5 minute walk away.

Here’s a discount train ticket to use on the Keio Line towards Mt. Takao.
The pass offers a heavy discount to travelers planning for extra travel along the Keio Line along with rides on the cable car and chair lift at Mt. Takao.

Now you’re bundled up and ready with all the tips you’ll need to get to the mountain, complete with the perfect attire, gear and tickets.
Mt. Takao may look a little different each season but being able to come back and see it in a whole new way each season is one of the reasons hikers love it so much.
Keep this guide in your back pocket and get ready for tasty eats, power spots and all the bonus levels to unlock at Mt. Takao.