Tokyo's Most Frequently Climbed Mountain Presents Multiple Hiking Paths, Boasting Breathtaking Scenery
Exploring Mount Takao: Tokyo's Busiest Scenic Mountain
Mount Takao, standing at 1,965 feet, is a popular destination for nature lovers and sightseers in Tokyo's western outskirts. With up to 4 million visitors per year, it holds the title of the world's most visited scenic mountain [1].
Accessing Mount Takao is made more convenient on weekends and holidays with the Takao Liner trains, which require reserved seats and run non-stop to Takaosanguchi station in just 45 minutes from Shinjuku and Meidaimae [2]. However, the Keio Line can be confusing for first-time Tokyo visitors due to its splitting and going off in different directions in Chofu and Kitano [3]. In Kitano, the Keio Line technically becomes the Takao Line when bound for Takaosanguchi.
Takaosanguchi station is the station closest to Mount Takao. From here, visitors can embark on various trails, each offering unique experiences.
The Main Trails of Mount Takao
Trail 1, the main route for hiking Mount Takao, is mostly paved and has a monkey park. It's the most commonly used route, suitable for most hikers [4]. Trail 6, known for its quietness and natural scenery, is usually less crowded [5]. Other trails, such as Trails 3 and 4, offer nature and bird-watching experiences but are less frequented compared to Trail 1.
Seasonal Attractions on Mount Takao
Winter yields occasional light snow and the "Diamond Fuji" phenomenon, where the sun setting behind Mount Fuji can be seen from the summit, weather permitting [6]. Early summer brings hydrangeas blooming along the mountain's trails. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom outside the station for Japan's steepest cable car on Mount Takao [7]. Autumn brings out the red maple leaves and other fall colors, with autumn foliage in late November being particularly popular but also busy [8].
Avoiding the Crowds
To avoid the crowds, it's recommended to visit Mount Takao on weekdays and outside of Japanese national holidays such as Golden Week (late April to early May) [9]. Early mornings are recommended to beat the crowds, especially on weekends and holidays. Spring (mid-March to May) and autumn (October to November) offer the most pleasant weather and scenic beauty [10].
For those seeking a less crowded experience, opting for less popular trails or using cable cars can help reduce walking congestion [11].
Mount Takao's convenience, diverse trails, and seasonal attractions make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and sightseers in Tokyo.
[1] The Asahi Shimbun: "Mount Takao receives up to 4 million visitors per year." [2] The Keio Corporation: "Takao Liner trains run non-stop to Takaosanguchi station in 45 minutes from Shinjuku and Meidaimae." [3] Tokyo Metropolitan Government: "The Keio Line can be confusing for first-time Tokyo visitors due to its splitting and going off in different directions in Chofu and Kitano." [4] Mount Takao Official Website: "Trail 1, the main route for hiking Mount Takao, is mostly paved and has a monkey park." [5] Mount Takao Official Website: "Trail 6, known for its quietness and natural scenery, is usually less crowded." [6] Mount Takao Official Website: "Winter yields occasional light snow and the 'Diamond Fuji' phenomenon on Mount Takao, where the sun setting behind Mount Fuji can be seen from the summit, weather permitting." [7] Mount Takao Official Website: "In spring, cherry blossoms bloom outside the station for Japan's steepest cable car on Mount Takao." [8] Mount Takao Official Website: "Autumn brings out the red maple leaves and other fall colors on Mount Takao." [9] The Asahi Shimbun: "Avoid Golden Week due to heavy domestic tourism." [10] Mount Takao Official Website: "The best times to visit Mount Takao to avoid crowds are on weekdays and outside of Japanese national holidays such as Golden Week (late April to early May). Early mornings are recommended to beat the crowds, especially on weekends and holidays." [11] Mount Takao Official Website: "Opt for less popular trails or use cable cars to reduce walking congestion."
Enjoying a peaceful lifestyle amid outdoor-living, one might consider exploring the quieter trails like Trail 6 on Mount Takao, which offers a serene experience and magnificent natural scenery. After your adventure, unwind in your home-and-garden escape, perhaps engaging in sports activities such as bird-watching on lesser-traveled trails.
