basic information

Still located within metropolitan Tokyo, the densely wooded Takaosan (Mount Takao) is one of the closest natural recreation areas to central Tokyo, offering beautiful scenery, an interesting temple and attractive hiking opportunities. From Shinjuku, it takes 370 Yen and 50 minutes to reach the foot of the mountain.

A network of numbered and well marked hiking trails, ranging from the broad and paved hiking trail number 1 to narrow nature trails, lead up the slopes and through the valleys of Takaosan. The peak is 599 meters over sea level and offers views of Tokyo, Mount Fuji and as far as Yokohama on clear days. There is a cablecar and chair lift leading half up the mountain.

Considered a sacred mountain, Takaosan has been a center of mountain worship for more than 1000 years. The attractive temple Yakuoin stands near the mountain's top. Visitors pray there to Shinto-Buddhist mountain gods (tengu) for good fortune. Statues of the gods, one with a long nose and one with a crow beak, can be found at the temple and all over the mountain.

Due to its proximity to central Tokyo, Takaosan can get very crowded on weekends and during the second half of November, when the mountain becomes one of Tokyo's most popular koyo (autumn foliage) spots. Consequently, if you are looking for a break not only from the concrete but also the crowds of Tokyo, you are well advised to visit Takaosan during the week.

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how to get there

Keio Railways offer the cheapest and fastest connections to Takaosan. Direct semi-limited express trains, which take about 50 minutes and 370 yen, leave the underground Keio Shinjuku station every 20 minutes. Takaosanguchi Station, the train's terminal station, is located at the foot of the mountain.

The JR alternative is by Chuo Line from Shinjuku to Takao Station (540 yen, about 50 minutes), where you transfer to the Keio Line and ride one more station to Takaosanguchi Station (120 yen, 2 minutes).

Orientation in Tokyo

news and reports

	Tokyo Cherry Blossom Report April 10, 2009
	Tokyo Cherry Blossom Report April 6, 2009
	Tokyo Cherry Blossom Report April 2, 2009
	Tokyo Cherry Blossom Report March 31, 2009
	Tokyo Cherry Blossom Report March 29, 2009
	Tokyo Cherry Blossom Report March 26, 2009

travel community

Popularity of Takaosan:
Users who have been to Tokyo: 2596
Users who have been to Takaosan: 135

35th of 49 most visited sights in Tokyo.
151st of 554 most visited sights nationwide.

Ratings for Takaosan:

japan-guide.com Rating:		outstanding
User Rating (by 62 users):	90/100	recommended

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hotels & ryokan

tours and packages

Tokyo Tours Various tours and travel packages for Tokyo and surroundings. Mt.Takao Full day Walking Tour An English guided tour to Mt. Takao that includes the chance to enjoy traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine.

english links

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