Tokyo's Most Frequently Climbed Mountain Unveils Multiple Hiking Routes, Showcasing Stunning Panoramas
Exploring Mount Takao: A Less Crowded, More Beautiful Experience
Mount Takao, located on the western outskirts of Tokyo, is a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers, attracting up to 4 million visitors per year. But if you're looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy the seasonal attractions, there are some key tips to keep in mind.
Weekdays are Ideal
Weekends, especially public holidays, attract large numbers of visitors, making the trails and summit congested with hikers and picnickers. To avoid the worst foot traffic on the trails and summit, it's recommended to visit Mount Takao on a weekday.
Seasonal Highlights
- Spring: Cherry blossoms bloom near the station, providing a picturesque start to your hike.
- Early summer: Hydrangeas flower along the trails, adding a splash of colour to your journey.
- Autumn (late November to early December): Peak fall foliage with vivid red maple leaves and other colours is a major attraction. However, this is also when crowds peak, so again, weekdays are best to avoid foot traffic.
Special Takao Liner Trains
On weekends and holidays, special Takao Liner trains operate, providing non-stop service from Shinjuku and Meidaimae to Takaosanguchi in 45 minutes. While this offers convenient direct access, it also coincides with heavier crowds.
Arriving via the Keio Line
For first-time Tokyo visitors, the Keio Line can be confusing, as it splits and goes off in different directions in Chofu and Kitano. However, the line technically becomes the Takao Line in Kitano when heading for Takaosanguchi, but trains on the "Keio Line" platform alternate between there and Keio-hachioji.
Exploring the Trails
Trail 1 is the main route for hiking Mount Takao from bottom to top and has a monkey park. Trail 2 loops around a park and its wild plant garden, while Trail 3 veers off on a forest path to the top of Mount Takao. For those seeking more challenging trails, there are additional options such as Trail 6, the Takao-Jimba Trail, and the Inariyama Trail.
In Summary
For a less crowded experience interwoven with seasonal natural beauty, visit Mount Takao on a weekday during spring (March-April), early summer (June), or autumn (late November). This approach balances enjoying the mountain’s rich seasonal attractions while avoiding peak visitor times.
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- To fully appreciate the beauty of Mount Takao without the crowds, consider outdoor-living and home-and-garden by exploring the trails on a weekday during spring (March-April), early summer (June), or autumn (late November).
- By choosing to hike Mount Takao during these less busy times, you'll be able to immerse yourself in the seasonal lifestyle of Japan's beautiful nature and enjoy the diverse surroundings of the home-and-garden-like mountainside.
