Explore Mt. Takao’s trails, witness a sacred fire ritual, and savor Shojin-ryori on a private tour with a certified guide.
Explore Mt. Takao’s trails, witness a sacred fire ritual, and savor Shojin-ryori on a private tour with a certified guide.
- Shinjuku - As this is an exclusive private tour, a certified English-speaking guide will meet the guests at their hotel in Tokyo. After the introduction, the group will take the subway or train to Shinjuku Station, the world’s busiest train station. From there, they will board the Keio Line to Mt. Takao. The journey from Shinjuku to Mt. Takao…
- Shinjuku - As this is an exclusive private tour, a certified English-speaking guide will meet the guests at their hotel in Tokyo. After the introduction, the group will take the subway or train to Shinjuku Station, the world’s busiest train station. From there, they will board the Keio Line to Mt. Takao. The journey from Shinjuku to Mt. Takao takes approximately one hour, with train fare included.
- Takaosanguchi Tourist Information Center - Due to its convenient access from Tokyo and its three-star rating by the Michelin Green Guide, Mt. Takao is a popular hiking destination for Tokyo residents. Upon disembarking the train, there is a 10-minute walk to the cable car station (alternatively, guests can opt to hike from the mountain’s base). The cable car ride, known as Japan’s steepest, lasts about 10 minutes, with tickets included.
- Takaosan Yakuo-in Yuki-ji Temple - Yakuo-in Temple, a Buddhist temple of the Shingon school founded in 744, honors two main deities: Bhaisajyaguru and Izuna-Gongen, reflecting the historical blend of Japanese Buddhism and Shinto beliefs. Guests will explore the temple’s beautiful grounds and witness the renowned fire ritual in the main hall, a deeply moving traditional ceremony that promises an unforgettable experience.
- Takaosan Yakuo-in Betsu-in Fudo-in - For those selecting the Japanese vegetarian lunch option, a traditional dish called Shojin-ryori will be served. This entirely vegetarian meal features a variety of natural ingredients and locally sourced vegetables, each portion meticulously prepared and beautifully presented, offering delicate, rich flavors. The meal is served in a tranquil annex of the temple, enhancing the dining experience.
(Lunch is optional. Guests who do not choose this option can enjoy a casual Japanese meal, such as soba noodles, at nearby stalls or small restaurants around the temple.)
- Mt. Takaosan Hiking Course - Guests will enjoy a hike to the summit of Mt. Takao, which stands at 599 meters. The trail is pleasant and suitable for all skill levels. From the top, visitors can admire the stunning surrounding scenery and, on clear days, a breathtaking view of Mt. Fuji. After a brief rest at the summit, the group will descend on foot, experiencing Japan’s rich natural beauty, including diverse trees, flowers, and wildlife. The descent from the peak to the base takes about 60 to 90 minutes.
- Takao 599 Museum - After returning to the mountain’s base, guests will take a break at the delightful Takao 599 Museum. This small museum highlights the diverse wildlife and unique insects of Mt. Takao. There is also a cozy café where visitors can enjoy drinks or sweets.
- Takaosanguchi Tourist Information Center - The group will take the train back to Shinjuku Station around 3:30 pm. The journey takes about 60 minutes, and from there, the guide will accompany guests back to their hotel.

- Round trip tickets from and to your hotel to Shinjuku Station
- Licensed English-speaking guide
- Cable car tickets
- Round trip Keio Line tickets between Shinjuku Station and Takaosanguchi Station
- Round trip tickets from and to your hotel to Shinjuku Station
- Licensed English-speaking guide
- Cable car tickets
- Round trip Keio Line tickets between Shinjuku Station and Takaosanguchi Station
- Gratuity
- Lunch
- Gratuity
- Lunch
Situated approximately 50 kilometers from the heart of Tokyo, Mt. Takao (Takao-san) is a favored spot celebrated for its stunning natural scenery and well-kept hiking paths. This private tour offers the expertise of a certified English-speaking guide who will reveal both the natural wonders and cultural heritage of Japan.
Mt. Takao hosts the historic…
Situated approximately 50 kilometers from the heart of Tokyo, Mt. Takao (Takao-san) is a favored spot celebrated for its stunning natural scenery and well-kept hiking paths. This private tour offers the expertise of a certified English-speaking guide who will reveal both the natural wonders and cultural heritage of Japan.
Mt. Takao hosts the historic Yakuo-In Temple, established centuries ago and closely linked to Shugendō, a traditional form of mountain worship. The temple’s powerful fire ritual is an unforgettable experience, unlike anything previously encountered.
In just one day, visitors can enjoy a delightful hike, observe a sacred Buddhist ceremony, and savor a distinctive Japanese-style vegetarian meal known as Shojin-ryori.
- A subway or local JR train will be used after picking you up at your hotel, and the same applies for the drop-off service.
- If your hotel is situated outside our designated pick-up range and alternative transportation, such as a subway, is not feasible, guests are responsible for covering the fare. This includes the cost for both the guide’s transportation to the first destination and from the last destination back to your hotel.
- Due to weather condition or other operational reasons, the itinerary may be subject to change or certain visits may be omitted or substituted. Even in such circumstances, the tour may not be canceled, and the tour fare will not be refunded.
- The tour involves a good amount of walking including many staircases outdoors. We suggest wearing mountain boots or shoes.
- Please prepare rain gear, such as umbrella or a raincoat, in case of bad weather.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.