If hiking in Japan has ever been on your bucket list, Mount Takao is the perfect place to start. Just an hour away from Tokyo, this mountain seamlessly blends stunning natural landscapes with hiking trails that cater to all types of adventurers.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the 5 most popular hiking trails on Mount Takao, each offering something unique. So, whether you’re a nature lover searching for stunning views, a family looking for a relaxing day out, or an adventure seeker in need of a thrilling challenge—on Mount Takao, you’ll find the kind of hike you’re in the mood for.
Let’s dive into what makes each trail stand out and help you choose the one that fits your adventure style. Keep reading!
- Paths of peace and peaks: Exploring Mount Takao's trails
- Trail 1: The classic scenic hike
- Trail 4: A family-friendly trail with stunning views
- Inariyama trail - A short but sweet adventure
- Trail 2: Hidden gems for photographers
- The Takao-Jimba Trail - The adventure hiker's dream
- Trail features overview
- Suggestions for different travelers
- Tips for hiking Mount Takao
- Trail etiquette: A hiker's code for good vibes
- Conclusion
Paths of peace and peaks: Exploring Mount Takao’s trails
Located in Hachioji City in western Tokyo, Mount Takao is a must-visit destination for outdoors lovers, offering a perfect escape into nature. Standing at 599 meters (1,965 feet) above sea level, this mountain is not only a peaceful retreat but also provides some of the most spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes. You can even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji—truly a sight to behold!
Attracting approximately 3 million visitors annually, Mount Takao is well-loved for its accessibility and variety. It features eight main hiking trails, each offering a different experience in terms of length, terrain, and scenery.
Whether you’re after a leisurely walk through the woods or an invigorating climb, what makes this mountain so special is that no matter your skill level, there’s a trail that’s just right for you. The mountain also offers cable cars and chair lifts that make the journey to the summit easier for casual hikers or families with young children.
So, are you ready to hit the trails? Lace up your hiking boots, and let’s get started!
Trail 1: The classic scenic hike
Photo for illustrative purposes
Trail 1 is perhaps the most popular trail on Mount Takao—and for good reason. With its easy access from Takaosanguchi Station on the Keio Line, this route is the go-to path for first-time visitors and seasoned hikers alike. It’s the classic route for those who want to reach the summit while enjoying some of the best scenic hikes in the area.
The trail is well-marked and takes you through dense forests. It offers plenty of shade and tranquil surroundings. Along the way, you’ll pass by popular sightseeing spots like the Yakuo-in Temple, one of the mountain’s cultural highlights, and several scenic viewpoints perfect for photos. This trail is also known for its seasonal beauty, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn drawing large crowds.
Trail 1 is steep in some sections, but the rewards at the top are absolutely worth it. From the summit, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking view of Tokyo and, on clear days, even Mount Fuji. Whether you’re in it for the peaceful forest stroll or the sweeping cityscapes, Trail one offers a complete Mount Takao experience.
Trail features:
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Estimated duration: 100 minutes ascent, 80 minutes descent
Scenic Highlights:
Apart from lush forests, streams, and panoramic views from the summit, Trail 1 offers several memorable stops along the way. Let’s have a look!
| Spot | What to Expect? |
|---|---|
| Monkey Park & Wild Plant Garden | Playful Japanese macaques and explore a garden with 500+ native plant species. |
| Biwa Waterfall (Biwa Taki) | A peaceful waterfall used by monks for spiritual training—tucked just off the trail. |
| Yakuo-in Temple | An ancient Buddhist temple known for Tengu statues and vibrant seasonal festivals. |
| Observation decks | Several viewpoints offer stunning vistas of Tokyo and Mount Fuji—ideal for photos or a scenic rest. |
You’ll also come across street food and souvenir stalls near the temple and summit, offering delicious local treats like tengu-yaki and unique keepsakes—perfect for savoring the flavors of the mountain and taking home a memory.
- Who should hike it: Perfect for hikers of all skill levels, nature lovers, families
Trail 4: A family-friendly trail with stunning views
Photo for illustrative purposes
If you’re hiking with children or prefer a relatively-easy, family-friendly trail, Trail 4 is a great choice. It’s one of Mount Takao’s shortest and gentlest routes. This trail is relatively short and not too challenging. There are may steps, but the slope is gentle, making it perfect for families with children of school age and up.
Along the way, you’ll pass smaller peaks and walk through well-shaded, serene forests, perfect for hot summer days. You may even spot some of the local wildlife, like birds, squirrels, and seasonal insects.
While Trail 4 doesn’t reach the summit directly, it connects with other trails and passes through spots where you can catch glimpses of the Kanto plain and surrounding hills. Thus, trail 4 takes you to a point where you can see some of the best panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Trail features:
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Estimated duration: 50 minutes ascent, 40 minutes descent
Scenic Highlights:
| Scenic Spot | What to Expect? |
|---|---|
| Suspension Bridge (Miyama-bashi) | The only suspension bridge on Mount Takao—great photo op, surrounded by lush forest |
- Who should hike it: Families, beginner hikers, photographers, nature lovers
Inariyama trail – A short but sweet adventure
While Trail 4 is known for being family-friendly, the Inariyama Trail offers a more adventurous route for those who want more of a challenge. This ridge trail starts near the Asahi Inari Shrine, which is where it gets its name. It is an excellent choice for adventure seekers who might be new to hiking or prefer a mix of relaxation and a small test of endurance. So, if you’re taking this route, get ready for a few ups and downs along the way!
Trail features:
- Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
- Estimated duration: 100 minutes ascent, 80 minutes descent
Scenic highlights:
Along the Inariyama Trail, you’ll enjoy occasional ridge-line views offering glimpses of Tokyo and the Kanto Plain, particularly striking during the winter months when the trees are bare. The trail also features photogenic tree tunnels, where shaded paths under cedar and maple trees provide a stunning display, especially during the spring and fall, creating a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere.
| Scenic Spot | What to Expect? |
|---|---|
| Asahi Inari Shrine | A small, peaceful shrine at the trail’s start, adding cultural charm and a spiritual touch to the hike |
- Who should hike it: Beginner hikers in good health, adventurous families
Trail 2: Hidden gems for photographers
Photo for illustrative purposes
For those interested in scenic hikes with fewer crowds, Trail 2 offers a quiet alternative to the more popular routes. It’s less traveled, but that’s what makes it so special. This trail will lead you through dense forests and past little-known viewpoints. Moreover, it provides convenient access points that connect to Trails 1 and 3 and allow hikers to explore more of Mount Takao. Therefore, it is ideal for photographers who want to capture the mountain’s raw beauty without the usual bustle of other hikers.
Trail features
- Difficulty: Easy
- Estimated duration: 40 mins
Scenic highlights:
| Spot | What to Expect? |
|---|---|
| Secluded Forest Paths | Calm, shaded paths under cedar and cypress—great for quiet walks or photography |
| Birdwatching Spots | Ideal for spotting birds like the Japanese white-eye and varied tit |
- Who should hike it: Photographers, nature lovers
The Takao-Jimba Trail – The adventure hiker’s dream
Photo for illustrative purposes
For those looking for more of a challenge, the Takao-Jimba trail is ideal. This trail, which starts at the summit of Mount Takao, and passes through Mount Shiroyama and Mount Kagenobu before reaching Mount Jinba, is longer, steeper, and provides a real test of endurance, making it perfect for adventure hikers seeking a more rigorous hike with rewarding views. The trail’s landscapes, variety of inclinations and stunning views makes it a unique and invigorating choice for experienced hikers.
Trail features:
- Difficulty: Hard
- Estimated duration: 5 hours 20 minutes one-way
Scenic highlights:
This trail offers dense forests and rugged terrain, with many opportunities to enjoy stunning views along the way, including glimpses of Mount Fuji on clear days.
| Scenic Spot | What to Expect? |
|---|---|
| Summit of Mt. Kagenobu | On clear days, you’ll have unparalleled view of Mt. Fuji to the west, Yokohama and Enoshima to the south and even Tokyo to the east |
- Who should hike it: Experienced hikers, adventure seekers with good stamina
This very long trail is far more demanding than the others listed above, so it’s essential to be prepared. The terrain can be tricky, especially after rain, but if you’re an adventure seeker, you’ll love the challenge. Also, keep in mind that once you reach the end of the trail, you’ll need to descend Mount Jimba if you want to go home. Therefore, it’s essential that you leave early enough from the summit of Mount Takao so you have time to rest, maybe even picnic at the summit of Mount Jimba, then hike down for 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the Jimba Kogen-Shita bus stop before dusk.
Trail features overview
Here’s a handy table to help you compare the features of each trail:
| Trail Name | Difficulty | Duration | Scenic Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trail 1 | Moderate | 100 min. up / 80 min. down | Panoramic views, forests, and streams | Nature lovers, seasoned hikers |
| Trail 4 | Easy-Moderate | 50 min. up / 40 min. down | Forest paths, mountain views, wildlife | Families, photographers |
| Inariyama Trail | Moderate-Hard | 100 min. up / 80 min. down | Peaceful atmosphere, scenic views | Adventure seekers, families |
| Trail 2 | Easy | 40 min. | Hidden viewpoints, tranquil surroundings | Photographers, nature lovers |
| Takao-Jimba Trail | Hard | 5 h 20 min. 1-way | Rugged terrain, expansive mountain views | Experienced hikers, adventurers |
Suggestions for different travelers
For tourists, suggestions always help! Here’s how to choose the perfect trail on Mount Takao based on your travel style—whether you’re exploring with family, chasing the perfect shot, or craving a real hiking challenge.
- Families:
Stick to Trails 2 or 4—both are short, scenic, and gentle enough for kids. Look out for shaded paths, wildlife, and fun spots like the suspension bridge. - Photographers:
Trails 1 and 2 offer the best photo ops—from temple views and seasonal colors to panoramic cityscapes. Don’t miss the golden hour at the summit! - Hikers:
For a challenge, embark on the Takao-Jimba Trail, which has rugged terrain and rewarding views. If you prefer quiet, Trail 2 offers solitude and hidden lookout points.
Tips for hiking Mount Takao
To make your hike enjoyable and safe, here are some important tips:
- What to wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must. Choose sturdy hiking boots or sneakers. Moreover, wear breathable clothes, and always bring a hat and sunscreen, especially in the summer months. - What to bring?
A small backpack with water, snacks, and a map (or download one of the many hiking apps available). If you’re hiking on a more challenging trail, consider bringing trekking poles for extra support. - Safety first!
Always stay on the marked trails. Some of the trails, especially the more difficult ones, can be steep or slippery. Plus, keep an eye on the weather, as it can change quickly in the mountains.
Trail etiquette: A hiker’s code for good vibes
Mount Takao is not just a popular hiking spot—it’s a special place where nature, wildlife, and people come together. So, respect the natural environment while you hike. Here are a few simple rules.
Stay on the marked paths
It might be tempting to wander off the trail for a shortcut or a better photo, but stepping off the path can damage plants, disturb animals, and even cause erosion. The trails are carefully designed to protect the environment and keep hikers safe. Stick to them, and you’ll still get plenty of great views!
Take your trash home
This one’s simple: if you bring it in, take it out. That includes snack wrappers, water bottles, tissues, or anything else you use on the trail. There aren’t many trash bins on Mount Takao, so bring a small bag to carry out your garbage. Leaving no trace helps keep the mountain clean for the next person—and for the animals who call it home.
Respect wildlife
You might spot birds, monkeys, or other animals while hiking. It’s exciting, but it’s important not to feed them or try to get too close. Feeding wildlife can harm their health and make them dependent on humans. Enjoy the moment, take a photo from a distance, and let them stay wild.
Be mindful of others on the trail
Mount Takao welcomes all kinds of hikers—solo travelers, families, photography lovers, and fitness fanatics. On narrow paths, it’s polite to walk on the left and let faster hikers pass. If you’re in a group, try not to block the trail. A little awareness goes a long way in making the trail pleasant for everyone.
Insider tip:
You might hear a friendly dōzo (Japanese for “go ahead”) as someone gestures to give you right of way—it’s a common way hikers show kindness and keep the flow going on narrow paths and stairways.
A little respect goes a long way!
Following these simple guidelines helps preserve the beauty of Mount Takao and ensures that everyone—locals and travelers alike—can enjoy its trails for years to come. Hiking is more than just exercise. It’s about sharing space, slowing down, and appreciating the natural world together. So hike with care, and let your footsteps leave only memories behind!
Conclusion
Mount Takao is a treasure trove of hiking trails, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re after scenic hikes through serene forests, a family-friendly trail with stunning views, or an intense adventure hiking experience, you’ll find it here. So, it’s time to trek up! Pull on your hiking shoes, grab your camera, and explore the top five hiking trails on Mount Takao.
No matter which trail you choose, you’ll walk away with memories of breathtaking views, the joy of nature, and a renewed sense of wonder at the beauty of the great outdoors. Your adventure awaits!
Mount Takao isn’t just a hike—it’s a heartbeat of Japan’s wild side, where every step writes a memory. Let Umami bites be your storyteller, your guide, and your insider friend. Go beyond the guidebook—hike, taste, and live Japan with us. At Umami bites, we map more than routes—we reveal the rhythm of Japan. Wander with us!
