World’s most climbed mountain! A sightseeing guide to Mt. Takao, easily accessible from Tokyo!

Mt. Takao is a beloved sightseeing spot where visitors can easily enjoy nature thanks to its convenient access from central Tokyo. You can enjoy seasonal scenery anytime you visit, and the appeal of Mt. Takao goes beyond just mountain climbing! In this guide, we’ll take a deeper look into what makes Mt. Takao—also known as the world’s most climbed mountain—so special.

1. Classic and challenging climbing routes

Mt. Takao offers nine different hiking routes, ranging from beginner-friendly paths to challenging ones. First-time climbers are encouraged to try the most classic "Omotesando Route," which is full of Mt. Takao’s highlights! There are plenty of rest stops along the way, making it ideal for families and couples who want to take a leisurely walk.

For those looking to try a more serious hike, consider the Jinba-Takao route. This challenging path is for advanced hikers and offers a deeper experience of Mt. Takao’s natural charm.

2. Recommended for those lacking stamina! “Lift & Cable Car”

From Keio Line’s Takaosanguchi Station, a short walk brings you to the trailhead. While it’s possible to hike from the base, those seeking a more relaxed sightseeing experience can take the cable car or lift.

The base stations for both the lift and cable car are right next to each other, and the endpoints are also close. The cable car takes about 6 minutes one-way, while the two-person lift takes about 12 minutes to reach Kasumidai Observation Deck halfway up the mountain.

From the observation deck, on a clear day, you can see all the way to the skyscrapers of Shinjuku! During summer, a beer garden called “Beer Mount” opens, where visitors can enjoy a night view so stunning it’s called “a million-dollar view.”

3. Meet monkeys at Mt. Takao's Monkey Park (& Wild Plant Garden)

Just a short walk from the cable car’s Takaosan Station is the Mt. Takao Monkey Park. About 70 adorable monkeys live here, and you can observe their peaceful lives or listen to keepers talk about them. Watching their grooming or eating habits is soothing and heartwarming.

At the adjacent Wild Plant Garden, you can also see around 300 types of flowers and plants that grow on Mt. Takao. Be sure to stop by for a break during your hike!

4. Mt. Takao’s spiritual power spot: Yakuo-in Temple

Climb another 15 minutes past the Monkey Park, and you’ll reach Mt. Takao’s spiritual spot: Yakuo-in Temple. It is said to bring blessings for love and health, and many people hike Mt. Takao just to visit this temple.

According to legend, Mt. Takao is protected by the mystical power of tengu (goblin spirits), and you’ll see many depictions of them in the temple grounds. The tengu-themed goshuincho (temple stamp book) also makes a popular keepsake.

5. Top 3 popular foods at Mt. Takao

Mt. Takao is also known for its delicious snacks and lunch options. Here are some recommended local treats to try on your hike.

First is the Tokyo Milk Soft Serve from “Tenguya,” right near the cable car’s Takaosan Station. It’s not too sweet, rich in milk flavor, and perfect for walking around.

Next is the must-try “Mitsufuku Dango” (Three Blessings Skewer). Each skewer has three rice dumplings representing Great Fortune, Happiness, and Wealth. Many shops along the mountain sell their own versions with unique grilling and sauce styles. It’s a classic Mt. Takao snack you’ll want to try both on your way up and down!

The third recommendation is the Miso Oden at “Yamabiko Chaya,” located just a one-minute walk from the summit. The gentle miso flavor is comforting for tired bodies. Mt. Takao also offers many other specialties like “Tororo Soba” and “Tengu-yaki,” making it impossible to try everything in one visit!

6. Nearby spots to visit alongside Mt. Takao

Finally, here are some nearby attractions worth visiting if you have extra time and energy after your hike:

▶ Trick Art Museum

The Mt. Takao Trick Art Museum is a popular place to take fun photos. With the theme of “realistic illusions,” you can enjoy many amazing trompe-l'œil artworks.

▶ 599 Museum

Located near the souvenir shops at the base trail entrance, TAKA0599 MUSEUM is a free facility based on tourism, learning, and interaction. Its seasonal projection mapping displays are impressive. Previewing the flora and fauna exhibits can make your hike even more enjoyable.

◎ Finally: Golden Week and the autumn foliage season are busy seasons!

Mt. Takao offers much more than hiking, and it’s also extremely popular with international tourists! This means it gets very crowded during Golden Week and autumn weekends, sometimes to the point where the hiking trails are jammed. If possible, consider visiting during early summer for clear skies and refreshing greenery. Enjoy the seasonal natural beauty of Mt. Takao, all just a short trip from downtown Tokyo!

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