Day Trips from Hachioji: Mt. Fuji, Mt. Takao, and Lakes, Wrapped in Tradition

Hike Takao one of the simplest ways Doable: Takao FAQ

Q: The place does the hike begin?

A: Most guests begin from Takaosanguchi Station on the Keio Line, positioned proper on the mountain’s base. From there, you may both hike from the underside or take the cable automotive or chair carry up midway to the higher station (close to the center of Path 1). Each provide scenic rides by means of the forest and prevent some power for the summit.

Q: What trails can I take?

A: Mount Takao has eight official climbing trails, every catering to completely different expertise ranges and pursuits:

• Path 1: The principle and most accessible route: loads of sights together with temples, meals stalls, and viewpoints.
• Path 2: A soothing loop that permits you to expertise each the north and south sides of the mountain.
• Path 3: A quiet stroll by means of Katsura groves, best for a peaceable forest stroll.
• Path 4: Options Mount Takao’s solely suspension bridge, good for pictures.
• Path 5: A scenic loop showcasing the mountain’s oldest synthetic forest.
• Path 6: A refreshing hike alongside streams and luxurious greenery.
• Inariyama Course: An extended, full-fledged climbing expertise alongside ridges with nice views.
• Mt. Takao to Mt. Jinba Traverse: A extra adventurous path for knowledgeable hikers, uncovering the hidden charms of Oku-Takao whereas connecting Mount Takao with close by Mount Jinba.

All trails ultimately result in the summit, so you may combine and match on the way in which up and down relying in your tempo and pursuits.

Q: How lengthy does it take to achieve the summit?

A: Most hikers attain the summit in 60–100 minutes relying on the path and tempo. In case you take the cable automotive midway, it’ll take round 45 minutes from the higher station. The return journey is often quicker. Many individuals spend 2–3 hours whole, together with time to relaxation, eat, and benefit from the views.

Q: What ought to I put on or carry?

A: Regardless that it’s not an enormous mountain, preparation helps!

• Comfy strolling footwear or gentle climbing boots.
• Climate-appropriate layers: It may be cooler on the prime, particularly in winter.
• Water and snacks: There are distributors and merchandising machines, however having your individual is useful.
• Money: Some meals stalls and points of interest solely settle for money.
• Digital camera or smartphone: The views and temple grounds are gorgeous.
  Optionally available: Trekking poles when you desire additional stability, particularly on steeper trails.

Q: What can I see alongside the way in which?

A: Path 1 passes by means of Yakuo-in Temple, a historic Buddhist temple based over 1,200 years in the past. You’ll additionally discover tengu (long-nosed goblin) statues, small shrines, and scenic relaxation factors. Close to the summit, there’s an statement deck with views of Tokyo and Mount Fuji.

Q: Are there eating places or meals stands?

A: Sure! Mount Takao is known for its native dishes like tengu-yaki (candy bean-filled muffins formed like tengu faces) and tororo soba (buckwheat noodles topped with grated yam). You’ll discover eating places and memento retailers close to the bottom, midway level, and summit.

Q: Are there restrooms on the mountain?

A: Sure, restrooms can be found on the station space, cable automotive stops, and the summit. They’re properly maintained, however carrying tissues or hand sanitizer is a good suggestion.
Be aware: In case you take a path apart from Path 1, please remember that there are not any restrooms alongside the way in which on the course.

Q: Is it family-friendly?

A: Completely. The paved Path 1 and the cable automotive make Mount Takao appropriate for all ages. There’s even a monkey park and wild plant backyard close to the cable automotive’s higher station that children love.

Q: Can I go to on a day journey from Tokyo?

A: Positively! It’s nearly 50 minutes from Shinjuku. Many guests come for a morning or afternoon hike, and a few keep close by to go to native scorching springs like Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu after their trek.

Q: Is it secure to hike alone?

A: Sure, Mount Takao could be very secure and common with solo hikers. Trails are well-marked, and also you’ll nearly at all times encounter different guests, particularly on weekends. Simply keep on with official trails and begin your hike earlier than sundown.

Optionally available Stops You Gained’t Wish to Miss

Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu: (Open 8:00 AM – 10:30 PM, Admission: ¥1,100-¥1,300) Positioned simply subsequent to Takaosanguchi Station. The pure scorching springs are good for soothing drained muscle tissues after a day of climbing.

Mid-Day: Conventional Charcoal-Grilled Lunch

1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Lunch at Ukai Toriyama

You’ll be able to take a shuttle from Takaosanguchi Station to the restaurant. It runs each 20 minutes from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM and takes about 10 minutes. There’s a clearly labeled bus cease close to the gate into the practice station.

Ukai Toriyama: A widely known restaurant providing conventional charcoal-grilled delicacies utilizing elements sourced from the close by satoyama woodlands. (Lunch hours are usually 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, Dinner from 5:00 PM; so attempt to preserve this in thoughts when timing the onsen!) Visitors dine in non-public tatami rooms surrounded by gardens and streams, making a serene, genuine environment worthy of a postcard. 

Lunch units from ¥8,800, ¥11,000 on weekends. The grounds are lovely and a sight to see, however solely open to those that have a reservation.

Beneficial Close by Spots

Lake Sagami (相模湖): A scenic lake surrounded by rolling hills. The lakeside paths are perfect for a leisurely stroll, particularly throughout cherry blossom season or autumn foliage. You may as well take pleasure in a wide range of boat associated actions on the water:

Entry to Lake Sagami:
From Takaosanguchi Station, take the Keio Line again to Takao Station, then switch to the JR Chuo Line to Sagamiko Station. All the journey takes roughly 15-20 minutes and prices round ¥360.

Sagamiko Illumillion (さがみ湖イルミオン)

In case you go to between November and Could, make sure that to cease by Sagamiko Illumillion, one of Japan’s largest illumination occasions. Tens of millions of colourful lights create tunnels, glowing fields, and themed installations throughout the lakeside. It’s a dream setting for night pictures earlier than heading again to Hachioji.

Admission prices and working hours:

• Entry
  • Adults: 2,000 yen
  • Kids/senior residents: 1,300 yen
• Free go (consists of the whole lot within the theme park, not simply Sagamiko Illumillion)
  • Adults: 4,700 yen
  • Kids/senior residents: 3,700 yen
• 3 o’clock go
  • Adults: 3,000 yen
  • Kids/senior residents: 2,400 yen
• Hours: 4pm-9pm (Hours might fluctuate by season)

Afternoon to Night: Return to Hachioji

7:00 PM (or earlier, when you skip Lake Sagami) onwards: Dinner & Keep in Hachioji

Nakayasu Café: (Open 11:30 AM – 8:30 PM) Serves meals constructed from domestically sourced elements from Hachioji and provides natural espresso. The terrace view at sundown is very enjoyable, and you’ve got a change to catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

Lodging Advice: Keio Plaza Lodge Hachioji

Luxurious Consolation Awaits: Step right into a world of luxurious the second you enter the superbly designed foyer.

Culinary Delights to Savor:

Indulge your candy tooth on the charming cafe/bakery, that includes an array of pleasant treats, together with unique Good day Kitty Princess muffins which might be nearly too cute to eat! However, be sure you reserve one by 5pm, 3 days earlier than!

Begin your relaxed night with loads of scrumptious choices; a real feast for the senses! For an elevated eating expertise, discover the lodge’s different high-class eating places, some even providing probabilities of breathtaking views of majestic Mt. Fuji till the solar units: a feast on your eyes and your palate! 

Unimaginable Worth, Unforgettable Keep: Expertise premium consolation with out the premium price ticket! Common rooms provide considerably higher worth than comparable lodging in bustling central Tokyo.

Good day Kitty Desires Come True: For all of the Good day Kitty lovers on the market, prepare for an unforgettable keep in our particular Good day Kitty rooms!

Your Good Leisure Haven: After two days of thrilling adventures, this lodge is your final sanctuary, offering the proper mix of consolation and leisure to recharge and rejuvenate.

Day 2: Mt. Fuji Day Journey

Mt. Fuji is a way more affordable trek from Hachioji! Make the most of this nice location and go to the delight of Japan. Learn alongside to search out out simply methods to take pleasure in this well-known space!

Morning: Journey to Mt. Fuji & Panoramic Views

7:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Journey to Mt. Fuji

• Freeway Bus + Fujikyu bus (about 2.5 hours):
  • First, take a freeway bus from Chuodo Hachioji to Kawaguchiko Station (as little as ¥1,350 a technique, about 1 hour)
    1. Be aware: there’s a bus that goes straight from Chuodo Hachioji that goes on to the fifth station, however it is just out there from July to August.
  • Subsequent, take a Fujikyu bus from Kawaguchiko station (about 1 hour) to Fuji Subaru Line fifth Station
    1. Adults round-trip: ¥3,000, Elementary faculty pupil: ¥1,500
    2. Adults one-way: ¥1,950, Elementary faculty pupil: ¥980

10:00 AM – 12:30 PM: Mt. Fuji fifth Station Exploration

The fifth Station (elevation approx. 2,300m) provides panoramic views. From right here, you’ll be capable to seize gorgeous pictures and actually admire the vastness of the panorama. In case you’re not there for the complete climb, there’s a little bit of informal climbing close by.

• Go to Mt. Fuji Komitake Shrine and browse memento retailers. This historic shrine provides a glimpse into native spirituality, and the retailers are good for locating distinctive presents and mementos of your journey.
• Benefit from the surroundings from the statement deck. Take your time to soak within the breathtaking views and seize some memorable pictures of the encircling nature.
• Relying on the season, take pleasure in quick nature walks or gentle trekking. These mild paths will let you expertise the pure fantastic thing about the world up shut and luxuriate in some recent air.

Climbing Mount Fuji: Your Important FAQ

Planning a visit to Mount Fuji? Listed here are some continuously requested questions that will help you put together for an unforgettable expertise!

Q: Can I climb Mount Fuji?

A: Completely! Climbing Mount Fuji is a improbable expertise, however it’s typically solely beneficial in the course of the official climbing season, which usually runs from early July to early September. Outdoors of those months, situations could be extraordinarily harsh and harmful, and particular permits and skilled guides are required.

Q: Will the fifth Station be open after I go?

A: Sure, the fifth Station (and the 4 others positioned across the mountain) is open year-round! Whereas it’s a well-liked start line for climbers, it’s additionally a terrific spot for guests to benefit from the views, seize a chew to eat, and purchase souvenirs, even when they don’t plan to hike to the summit. The first by means of 4th stations are primarily utilized by climbers in the course of the climbing season, providing relaxation stops and services alongside the assorted trails.

Q: What path ought to I take?

A: Mount Fuji provides 4 fundamental trails, every with its personal traits and ranging issue ranges. Selecting the best one is dependent upon your expertise and health stage:

• Yoshida Path: The most well-liked and accessible path, ranging from the Fuji Subaru Line fifth Station. It has essentially the most services (mountain huts, first support stations) and is nice for newcomers.
• Subashiri Path: Ranging from the Subashiri fifth Station, this path is much less crowded than Yoshida and provides a extra pure, forested ascent initially. It merges with the Yoshida Path close to the eighth station.
• Gotemba Path: The longest and most difficult path, ranging from the Gotemba New fifth Station. It has fewer services and is beneficial for knowledgeable climbers.
• Fujinomiya Path: Ranging from the Fujinomiya New fifth Station, that is the shortest path to the summit, making it steeper. It’s the second hottest path and provides spectacular views.

Q: How lengthy does it take to climb and descend?

A: The time it takes varies considerably relying on the path, your athletic capabilities, and the way typically you cease. On common, most climbers funds:

• Ascent: 5 to 7 hours
• Descent: 3 to five hours

Many climbers decide to begin their ascent within the afternoon, keep in a single day at a mountain hut close to the summit, after which proceed to the height within the early morning to witness the breathtaking dawn (Goraiko).

Q: What gear do I want?

A: Correct gear is essential for a secure and gratifying climb. Right here’s a guidelines of necessities:

• Layers of clothes: Climate on Mount Fuji can change quickly. Pack moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a water-resistant and windproof outer shell.
• Sturdy climbing boots: Ankle help is vital for the uneven terrain.
• Backpack: Giant sufficient to hold all of your necessities.
• Headlamp or flashlight: Important for early morning or late night climbs, particularly for dawn makes an attempt.
• Loads of water and snacks: Keep hydrated and energized.
• Solar safety: Hat, sun shades, and sunscreen are a should.
• Gloves: Even in summer season, it may be chilly on the summit.
• Rain gear: A water-resistant jacket and pants are extremely beneficial.
• First-aid package: Blister pads, ache relievers, and any private drugs.
• Money: Many mountain huts solely settle for money for meals, drinks, and facility use.
• Trekking poles: Will help with stability and scale back pressure in your knees, particularly in the course of the descent.

Q: Do I must make reservations for mountain huts?

A: Sure, when you plan to remain in a single day on the mountain, particularly in the course of the peak climbing season, it’s extremely beneficial to make reservations for mountain huts properly prematurely. They’ll replenish rapidly!

Q: Are there bogs on the mountain?

A: Sure, there are bogs out there at every of the stations and at most mountain huts alongside the paths. Be ready to pay a small price (often round 200-300 yen) for his or her use, as these funds assist with upkeep. It’s additionally a good suggestion to hold some hand sanitizer.

Q: What about altitude illness?

A: Altitude illness can have an effect on anybody, no matter health stage. Take your time, ascend slowly, and keep hydrated. In case you begin to really feel unwell (headache, nausea, dizziness), descend instantly. Take into account spending an evening on the fifth Station earlier than beginning your climb to assist acclimatize.

Afternoon: Lakeside Magnificence & Native Flavors

12:30 PM – 1:30 PM:

Take your return bus again to Kawaguchiko station (About 1hour)

1:30 PM – 2:30 PM: 

Lunch: Hoto Noodles

Savor Hoto noodles (approx. ¥1,200-¥1,800), an area specialty that includes thick udon in a miso-based soup with seasonal greens, good after out of doors actions or a brisk fall or winter day. This hearty and scrumptious dish is a must-try for anybody visiting the world, providing a comforting and genuine style of native delicacies.

2:30 PM – 5:30 PM: Discover the Fuji 5 Lakes

Go to a number of of the Fuji 5 Lakes, comparable to Lake Kawaguchiko or Lake Motosuko, famend for reflections of Mt. Fuji.

• Lake Motosuko: Well-known for its look on the outdated ¥1,000 yen invoice. The view of Mount Fuji on the invoice is a recreation of a view you may get from this lake.
• Lake Kawaguchiko: Take into account renting a bicycle (usually ¥1,000-¥2,000 for a couple of hours) to discover the peaceable lakeside, small shrines, and scenic viewpoints. Oishi park is a superb cease to take a look at for good views and a peaceable backyard.
  • Be aware: This takes between 2 and 4 hours relying in your tempo and is about 12 miles or 20 km. If you wish to do that, you might have to forgo another actions!
• Lake Saiko: Recognized for its pristine pure magnificence and tranquil environment, providing glorious alternatives for tenting and fishing.
• Lake Shojiko: The smallest of the Fuji 5 Lakes, providing gorgeous panoramic views of Mt. Fuji, typically mirrored completely on its calm floor.
• Lake Yamanakako: The most important of the Fuji 5 Lakes and a well-liked spot for water sports activities, with breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji, particularly at dawn and sundown.

Exploring the Fuji 5 Lakes: Your Important FAQ

Do the lakes sound fascinating to you? Listed here are some continuously requested questions that will help you take advantage of your journey!

Q: What are the Fuji 5 Lakes?

A: The Fuji 5 Lakes (Fujigoko) are a bunch of 5 lakes fashioned by historic eruptions of Mount Fuji. They’re Lake Kawaguchiko, Lake Yamanakako, Lake Saiko, Lake Shojiko, and Lake Motosuko. Every lake provides distinctive views of Mount Fuji and completely different actions to take pleasure in.

Q: Which lake is one of the best to go to for views of Mt. Fuji?

A: Whereas all 5 lakes provide gorgeous views, Lake Kawaguchiko is usually thought of the most well-liked and accessible for iconic Mt. Fuji vistas, particularly from spots like Oishi Park. Lake Motosuko can also be well-known for its reflection of Mt. Fuji, depicted on the ¥1,000 yen invoice.

Q: Can I swim within the lakes?

A: Swimming is usually permitted in many of the lakes, notably in the course of the hotter months (July and August). Nonetheless, at all times test native laws and designated swimming areas, as situations and guidelines can fluctuate by lake.

Q: Is it straightforward to get round between the lakes?

A: There are native bus companies connecting the completely different lakes and surrounding points of interest. Nonetheless, renting a automotive provides essentially the most flexibility for exploring your complete area at your individual tempo. If touring by automotive, it typically takes 3-4 hours to drive round all 5 lakes. 

Night: Return to Hachioji

5:30 PM – 7:00 PM: Return to Hachioji

From Kawaguchiko Station, take the identical bus you took to get there from Hachioji (roughly 1 hour, however site visitors could also be worse round this time)

Yaei Ramen: For these in search of a pleasant culinary expertise, Yaei Ramen presents a perfect alternative. This famend Hachioji specialty provides a comforting, soy sauce-based ramen, elegantly topped with finely chopped onions. Its distinctive broth boasts exceptional depth, a subtly impactful taste that’s surprisingly gentle and remarkably straightforward to savor. Accompanied by traditional accoutrements comparable to a superbly soft-boiled egg and impeccably cooked chashu, its simplicity is elevated to perfection. Additional particulars on this beautiful institution can be found within the accompanying article.