Samurai Guide Sho’s Mt. Takao Hike, Temple & Onsen from Shinjuku
Active
7h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
A modern-day Samurai, Sho, who has been involved in both railways and mountaineering for over 20 years, skillfully wields a Suica instead of a sword and guides you on a training journey from Shinjuku Station toward Mt. Takao through the seasons.
Full round-trip support.
An intense story born from a small group of up to five.
A 1.5-hour hike leads to the summit of Mt. Takao.
If the weather is clear, Mt. Fuji may appear.
Depending on crowds and weather, you encounter gourmet food in the mountain.
You visit Yakuo-in Temple, then descend by lift.
Heading to a tattoo-friendly hot spring, you enjoy dishes and craft beer
(either the hot spring or dining can be used).
With body and mind restored, returning to Shinjuku Station,
the story of the day quietly comes to a close.
No hiking gear needed; sneakers are fine.
The hot spring comes with 2 towels included—nothing to bring.
Reservations until 7:00 a.m. on the day.
Tour ends at Shinjuku Station at 5:00 p.m. (perfect for evening plans).
Available options
Samurai Guide Sho’s Mt. Takao Hike, Temple & Onsen from Shinjuku
What's included
Takao Expert: Routes Guidance for sightseeing, hiking trails, and less crowded routes.
Railway Pro Navigation Expert guidance: Shinjuku Maze, Suica/ticket support & transfers.
Mountain Food & Onsen Guide Local food spots, support for hot spring etiquette, customs and dining.
Railway Pro: Delay Support Instant expert rerouting for train delays or service suspensions.
Detailed itinerary
1
Please search “Suica Penguin Statue” on Google Maps for the meeting point.
At the break of day, our journey begins at JR Shinjuku Station — New South Gate, before the Suica Penguin statue.
Once the gateway of the capital, now a crossroads of countless travelers.
Here, our fellowship shall gather.
The appointed hour is 9:30 in the morning.
As the sun glimmers between towers of glass and steel,
the Samurai stands in silence, awaiting his companions.
Beneath the great Bus Terminal of Shinjuku —
this is where the training begins.
2
Departure from Shinjuku – The Journey Begins
Together with a samurai well-versed in the ways of the railway, you will ride the “iron horse” (train) for about an hour to reach the entrance of the training ground — Takaosanguchi Station.
As the train window frames the passing cityscape, the bustling metropolis gradually gives way to the tranquil mountains.
You can buy water or light snacks at the convenience store in front of the station.
3
The Waterfall Training Path
Walk the ancient trail once used for monk training, passing a mystical waterfall.
Breathe deeply—the spirit of the mountain welcomes you.
4
At the Summit – View of Mt. Fuji
If fortune smiles upon you, behold the distant Mt. Fuji.
Enjoy a local snack amidst the wind and clouds of Takao’s peak.
5
Temple of Yakuo-in – The Prayer Ritual
Offer gratitude at the sacred temple and taste local sweets such as dango and matcha ice cream.
6
Descent by Lift – The Rewarding Breeze
A gentle breeze awaits as a blessing granted only to those who have endured the ascent.
(In times of heavy crowds, the descent will instead become a 30-minute walk.)
7
Onsen – The Cleansing Ritual
Wash away the fatigue of battle in tattoo-friendly hot springs.
Savor local dishes and enjoy draft craft beer — your well-earned reward.
8
Return to Shinjuku – End of the Samurai Journey
With renewed body and spirit, return to the city.
You have walked the path of the modern Samurai.
What's not included
Train fare (Shinjuku ⇄ Takaosanguchi round trip)
Lift fee
Onsen admission
Personal food and drink expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
JA
EN
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
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2 reviews
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Ironclad Guidance by a Railway Professional – Your journey begins at the meeting point in Shinjuku, a true urban labyrinth. Sho, a modern samurai with over 20 years of experience in the railway industry, fully supports you with ticket purchasing, Suica usage, navigating the complex Shinjuku Station, choosing the fastest trains, and making smooth transfers; in the event of delays or service disruptions, he immediately proposes alternative routes to guide you forward without confusion.
The Best Route Chosen by 20 Years of Hiking Experience – A guide who knows Mt. Takao inside and out selects the most suitable route based on the day’s weather and your physical condition; with careful pace management and guidance at key points, the route is instantly adjusted during busy periods by switching to relatively quieter, lesser-known paths to ensure a comfortable hike.
From Mountain Cuisine to Hot Springs, and Craft Beer – After the hike, you are guided to locally loved dining spots on the mountain, selected carefully according to crowd conditions; your reward is a tattoo-friendly hot spring with an on-site brewery, where several freshly brewed craft beers are poured directly from the taps, including seasonal selections—an exclusive privilege reserved for those who complete the training. • Alcohol Policy: Craft beer is available only to guests aged 20 and over, in accordance with Japanese law.
A Mark of Training and the Samurai Spirit – What Samurai Guide Sho offers is not spectacle or performance; it is the quiet experience of walking Mt. Takao’s paths with a modern samurai in an indigo haori, sharing words and time together, which forms the true essence of this training, and along the way he will help capture a single photo with your own camera—not as a souvenir, but as a subtle mark of having completed the journey.
Guidelines for Safety and Responsibility – Please take responsibility for your own health, any injuries, and personal belongings during the tour.
Eligibility & Preparation – This tour is for guests aged 18 and over due to hot spring policies. The experience includes approximately 1.5 hours of uphill hiking as well as additional walking, so please wear comfortable shoes. Bringing drinking water, light snacks, a towel, and a change of clothes after the hot spring is recommended. In winter, please dress warmly with proper cold-weather protection. Please bring rain gear in case of rain.
Payments on Site – Most shops and hot spring facilities accept cash, credit cards, and IC cards such as Suica. However, some shops within the Yakuoin Temple grounds (charms, snacks, etc.) may accept cash only. Please be sure to bring some cash.
Flexibility of the Itinerary – Conditions on Mt. Takao change significantly from day to day. Hiking routes and the order of activities may be adjusted depending on weather and crowd levels. Safety is the top priority, and the guide will make the most appropriate decisions based on the day’s conditions.
Rainy or Severe Weather – The tour operates in light rain, though food facilities within the mountain area may be closed. In severe weather, hiking will be canceled and the itinerary will be adjusted to include a round-trip cable car ride, a visit to Yakuoin Temple, a nature-focused museum, and time at the hot spring.
Hot Spring Visit – Entering the hot spring is optional. Guests who choose not to bathe may relax or enjoy meals at the facility. A tattoo-friendly hot spring is used; if it is closed, the visit will be replaced with a nature-focused museum, which may also be closed.
Busy Seasons – During peak seasons such as autumn leaves or cherry blossoms, the return chairlift may be extremely crowded. In such cases, we will walk down via Trail No.1 at a relaxed pace (approximately 30–40 minutes).
Safety & Disclaimer – The organizer cannot be held responsible for injuries, illness, or loss or damage of personal belongings during the tour. Please take responsibility for your own health and safety. Disruptive or unsafe behavior may result in the tour being ended without a refund.
Meeting point
Meet at the Suica Penguin Statue in front of JR Shinjuku Station’s New South Gate. Your guide, Sho Kondo, will be wearing a modern samurai-style outfit, making him easy to spot (as shown in the first photo).
About Tokyo
Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a bustling metropolis that beautifully blends traditional culture with cutting-edge technology. Known for its neon-lit streets, historic temples, and world-class cuisine, Tokyo offers a unique experience that caters to every type of traveler.
Top Attractions
Senso-ji Temple
Senso-ji is Tokyo's oldest temple and one of its most significant. The temple's massive lantern and five-story pagoda are iconic landmarks.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
Free (small fee for some areas)
Meiji Shrine
Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. It is surrounded by a beautiful forest.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
Free
Shibuya Crossing
Shibuya Crossing is the world's busiest pedestrian crossing and a symbol of Tokyo's bustling urban life. It's a must-see for its chaotic yet orderly nature.
Cultural
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free (¥2,200 for Shibuya Sky)
Tokyo Skytree
Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in Japan and the second tallest freestanding structure in the world. It offers breathtaking views of the city.
Architecture
2-3 hours
¥2,100 to ¥3,100 (USD $15 to $22)
Odaiba
Odaiba is a man-made island in Tokyo Bay known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's a great place for families and tech enthusiasts.
Entertainment
Half day to full day
Varies by attraction
Must-Try Local Dishes
Sushi
Fresh raw fish served on vinegared rice, a staple of Japanese cuisine.
Dinner
Contains fish, can be vegetarian with substitutes.
Ramen
Noodle soup with various broths and toppings, a popular comfort food.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegan and vegetarian options available.
Tempura
Deep-fried seafood and vegetables, known for its crispy texture.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains seafood and deep-fried ingredients.
Okonomiyaki
Savory pancake with various ingredients, often topped with sauce and bonito flakes.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains seafood and can be made vegetarian.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the nearby mountains
Parasailing at Odaiba
Onsen (hot spring) visits
Tea ceremonies
Traditional tea ceremonies
Kimono rentals and photo shoots
Boat tours on the Sumida River
Beach activities at Odaiba
Best Time to Visit
March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn)
These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. However, these are also the busiest times for tourism.
10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
50°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
GMT+9
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Tokyo is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public order. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis and check fares before getting in.
- • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Getting there
By air
- Narita International Airport • 60 km (37 miles) from city center
- Haneda Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center
By train
Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station
By bus
Tokyo Station Bus Terminal, Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Tokyo's subway system is efficient, clean, and punctual. It consists of multiple lines operated by Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Shibuya
Shinjuku
Asakusa
Ginza
Akihabara
Day trips
Nikko
120 km (75 miles) from Tokyo • Full day
Nikko is a city known for its beautiful shrines, temples, and natural scenery. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
Kamakura
50 km (31 miles) from Tokyo • Half day to full day
Kamakura is a coastal town known for its historic temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha statue. It's a great place to experience traditional Japanese culture.
Hakone
90 km (56 miles) from Tokyo • Full day or overnight
Hakone is a hot spring resort town known for its onsen (hot springs), scenic views of Mount Fuji, and the Open-Air Museum. It's a popular destination for relaxation and nature.
Festivals
Sannō Matsuri • Mid-June (every 2 years)
Kanda Matsuri • Mid-May (every 2 years)
Sumida River Fireworks Festival • Last Saturday of July
Pro tips
- Use IC cards like Suica or Pasmo for convenient and discounted public transport.
- Download useful apps like Google Maps, Japan Transit Planner, and Japan Travel by Navitime.
- Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
- Carry cash, as some smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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