Most people will only know Tokyo being of the hustle and bustle, oblivious to the splendid nature that lies right outside the city’s doors. That's why I’ve created this experience so that others can enjoy my favorite hike in Tokyo!

On this hiking adventure, you will ascend one of the most famous mountains in Tokyo, Mt. Takao. This is so much more than just a hike though, it’s a journey into Tokyo’s wonderful nature and all the gifts that it brings.

You’ll begin your experience by train from Shinjuku Station to Takaosangunchi Station. Be prepared to be overwhelmed by the sheer amount of people at Shinjuku Station, it’s one of the busiest stations in the world!  A must see and a far cry from the open nature that awaits you.

Appreciate how the scenery in front of you slowly turns from urban to suburban to finally being in the middle of a lush forest!. My highlight of this trip has to be the amazing views and scenery you get from this train ride. My advice? Stay away from your cell phone and take a moment to appreciate the views of country life. Unless you’re taking pictures of course. This journey is filled with facts and stories that your host will share, be careful, it will be over in no time.

As your first stop on this experience, I have added the Takao 599 museum which was probably one of the highlights of the trip for me! I’m always so fascinated by all the cool information and facts you learn about the wildlife on the mountain, geology and more! I could spoil all the fun and give you all the most interesting facts, but I’ll save that for your host. Oh and don’t forget to stop by the Museum shop and buy a local souvenir made from natural materials, isn’t that insane?!

Now you’re finally halfway up Mt Takao, look at you go! You’ll take a short break at MT. Takao Monkey Park & Wildflower Garden and experience dozens of talented Japanese Macaques performing (Yes, you heard that right! Performing monkeys). They’ll probably grab all your attention and photo roll but leave some time to check out the wonderful wildflowers and fauna on display.

Now this is something you don’t find often when hiking up a mountain and that is probably one of my favorite temples in Japan,  the beautiful Takaosan Yakuōin Yukiji Temple, standing since the 14th century. What’s interesting is that this amazing temple is closely associated with Tengu, a ‘long-nosed demon-like’ being acting as the messenger of the deities and buddhas to chastise evildoers and protect the good. It sounds a bit scary but trust me, you’re safe and you may even be blessed while visiting this temple! Try to find their statues around the temple grounds! Your host can help.

I’m sure you must be hungry by now, so I’ve included that you sample a traditional Vegan Buddhist lunch prepared by monks the same way it has been prepared for hundreds of years while you’re at the temple. It’s quite rare to find vegan restaurants in Tokyo but this has to be one of my favorites! Even though it is vegan, their meticulous attention to detail is out of this world! And the flavor… well… you’ll find out for yourself, but one word. Wow.

Finally, you are on top of the world! Well, not quite but at least on the top of Mt. Takao. Take a breath, you deserve it. Enjoy the beautiful panoramic views all across Tokyo, the Tanzawa mountain range, and Lake Sagami and if you are lucky enough to visit Mt. Takao on a clear day, you will even see Mt. Fuji in all its glory. Your host will point out the sights you should notice from your aerial vista. 

There is no better way of ending this experience than by riding the Echo Lift to exit the mountain with style. This lifted chair takes you back to where you started in around 12 minutes. On your way down, take in the panoramic views, and appreciate how far you’ve come, as you get closer to civilization again after your escape to pure nature! 

Remember that Tokyo is more than just its urban side and I can’t wait for you to experience this hike up Mt Takao! Share how your experience was when you’re done and perhaps we could make more hiking adventures!