Walking Tour Mount Takao : Nature and Tradition in Tokyo

Overview

Please note that this tour does not use a private vehicle and uses public transport. This tour involves several hours of walking in the outdoors Mount Takao is beloved by the residents of Tokyo as the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the Metropolis full of nature and tranquility. Mount Takao is a sacred site in Japan which has a rich history spanning over 1,200 years, perfectly blending culture and religion together. If you love nature, hiking and want to get off the beaten tourist path on an easy day trip in Tokyo, then this tour is for you! Make your Tokyo trip unique by visiting this hidden gem! Located in Hachioji in Tokyo prefecture, Mount Takao or Takaosan as it’s often referred to is a forgotten gem that won’t disappoint. Takao is just a stones throw away from the bustling centre of Tokyo where you can reach the town and base of the mountain within 60 minutes by train from Shinjuku station.

What's included

• ✓Traditional Dango snack
• ✓Admission fees for Monkey Park and monkey food
• ✓Local English speaking guide
• ✓Round Trip on Cable Car
• ✓Return Train Tickets from Shinjuku Station to Takaosanguchi Station

• ✕Trains and transport before and after the tour
• ✕Food and drink

What you'll do

1. 1

   For our first destination, we will make a short stop at Takao’s 599 Museum and Nature Centre. Despite being small, the centre is an informative way to be introduced to the wildlife, plants and animals that live on Mount Takao. Your guide will paint a picture of the beauty and significance of Takao’s nature providing useful context before we begin our ascension up the mountain. Takao 599 is also home to its own great cafe, a perfect stop for a coffee, tea or light snack before we move onto our next destination!

   ⏱ 30 min
2. 2

   Mount Takao’s Monkey Park and Wildflower Garden offers visitors the opportunity to observe and learn about the native Japanese Macaques or ’Snow Monkeys’ as they are also referred to. The park is home to around 70 monkeys living in a semi natural environment on the mountain, and you will learn about their social structures and playful behaviour! You will also have the chance to feed the monkeys during your visit! The wildflower garden features over 500 species of plants that grow naturally on Mount Takao, and the landscape changes depending on the season.

   ⏱ 40 min
3. 3

   a beautiful Buddhist temple with a long and fascinating history. The temple was founded in 744 AD during the Nara period by Emperor Shomu. It is dedicated to Izuna Daigongen, a Deity associated with mountain protection and worship. The most famous of the temple’s features are the Tengu statues! These are mythical creatures which are believed to be protectors of the mountain and punish wrongdoers! The temple is also very popular for pilgrimages and visitors will often see people coming here to pray for safety, health and good fortune.

   ⏱ 45 min

Availability & pricing

Pick your exact date & check live availability on the booking page.

Good to know

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.