Mt. Takao Private Hiking Tour with Goma Fire Ritual Experience

Since this is a completely private tour, a certified English-speaking guide will pick you up at your hotel in Tokyo. After meeting you, we’ll take the subway or train to Shinjuku Station, the busiest train station in the world. From there, we’ll take the Keio Line to Mt. Takao. The train ride from Shinjuku to Mt. Takao takes about one hour. Train fare is included.

Thanks to its easy access from Tokyo—and the fact that the Michelin Green Guide has designated it as a three-star destination—Mt. Takao is a well-known hiking spot for people living in Tokyo. After we get off the train, we’ll walk for about 10 minutes to the cable car station (or, if you prefer, we can skip the cable car and start hiking from the base of the mountain). The cable car ride takes about 10 minutes, and it is known as the steepest cable car ride in Japan! (cable car ticket is included)

Yakuo-in Temple is a Buddhist temple of the Shingon school established in 744. The temple uniquely honors two main deities: Bhaisajyaguru and Izuna-Gongen, a deity rooted in the historical fusion of Japanese Buddhism and Shinto beliefs. We will explore the beautiful temple grounds and experience the famous fire ritual held in the main hall. This long-standing traditional ceremony is deeply moving and will create an unforgettable memory for you.

If you choose the Japanese vegetarian lunch option, we will enjoy a unique traditional dish called Shojin-ryori. This completely vegetarian meal features a variety of ingredients from nature and locally produced vegetables. Each small portion is carefully and elaborately prepared, beautifully presented, and full of delicate, rich flavors. The lunch is served in an annex of the temple, whose peaceful atmosphere adds to the experience.

(Lunch is optional. If you don’t choose this option, you can enjoy a casual Japanese meal such as soba noodles at nearby stalls or small restaurants around the temple.)

Let’s enjoy a hike to the top of Mt. Takao, which rises 599 meters. The trail is pleasant and suitable for all levels. From the summit, you can take in the beautiful surrounding scenery, and on a clear day, enjoy a stunning view of Mt. Fuji. After a short break at the top, we will descend on foot, immersing ourselves in Japan’s rich natural beauty, including a wide variety of trees, flowers, and wildlife. The descent from the peak to the base takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes.

After hiking back down to the base of the mountain, we’ll take a break at the charming Takao 599 Museum. This small museum showcases the diverse wildlife and unique insects of Mt. Takao. There is also a cozy café where you can enjoy drinks or sweets.

We will take the train back to Shinjuku Station around 3:30 pm. The ride takes about 60 minutes, and from there, the guide will escort you back to your hotel.