Mount Takao

If you've had enough of the big city, escape Tokyo for a day of hiking on Mount Takao.

In just under an hour from Tokyo it's possible to be a world apart, exploring the scenic hiking trails of sacred Mount Takao in Chichibu-Tama National Park.

Mount Takao and is dotted with small temples, religious statues and offerings increasing in number as the trails approach Yakuoin, an attractive temple dedicated to the mountain kami spirits. Reaching the mountain's summit takes 2-3 hours and is only of moderate difficulty. From the top there are fine views back towards Tokyo and on a clear day you can see as far as Mount Fuji.

For a further challenge there are a number of more difficult hiking routes that head on from the summit of Mount Takao to other peaks deeper in the National Park. Again these are clearly marked and can be combined with the hike up Mount Takao to form a full day of more advanced hiking. Although popular with Japanese hikers, Mount Takao is virtually untouched by overseas visitors to Japan.

Mount Takao

located in Mount Takao

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