From Shinjuku: Mt.Takao Hike & Onsen with Tokyo Samurai Guide Sho

Tokyo , Japan

From Shinjuku: Mt.Takao Hike & Onsen with Tokyo Samurai Guide Sho

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(2 reviews)

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

Depart from Shinjuku Station on a railway journey to Mount Takao, the Michelin-starred famous peak, guided round-trip from Shinjuku to Takao by the samurai guide Sho, who has been involved in both the railway industry and mountaineering for over 20 years, wielding a Suica instead of a sword.

After about an hour and a half of hiking on Mount Takao, calm your mind at the summit and temple, savor local gourmet food, and recover at a tattoo-friendly hot spring after descending the mountain. Enjoy local cuisine and craft beer inside the hot spring.
A samurai-style journey — a day revolving around nature, railways, and spirit.

No hiking gear needed; sneakers are fine.
The hot spring comes with 2 towels included — nothing to bring.

Reservations accepted until 7:00 a.m. on the day.
Meeting point: 9:30 a.m. at JR Shinjuku Station, South Gate (next to Busta Shinjuku, in front of the Suica Penguin statue)
End time: around 5:00 p.m. at Shinjuku Station (In time for your evening plans.)

Available options

From Shinjuku: Mt.Takao Hike & Onsen with Tokyo Samurai Guide Sho

What's included

Samurai Hiking Guide (During crowded times, we proceed like ninjas, taking less crowded paths.)

Samurai Train Guide (Expert Suica, ticket, and route support by a railway professional.)

Detailed itinerary

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.

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.

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.

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.

Temple of Yakuo-in – The Prayer Ritual
　Offer gratitude at the sacred temple and taste local sweets such as dango and matcha ice cream.

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.)

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.

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

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

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1★

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

Q: How much cash should I bring? A: Having ¥5,000 in cash will be enough.

Q: Can I make payments at the summit, Yakuoin Temple, or the hot spring? A: Many shops and hot spring facilities accept cash, credit cards, and IC cards such as Suica. However, shops inside Yakuoin Temple (souvenirs, dumplings, soft-serve ice cream) accept cash only.

Q: How do I buy a lift ticket? A: Tickets can be purchased at the lift station. Suica, cash, and contactless credit card payments are accepted.

Q: Do I need to bring food and drinks? A: There is a convenience store in front of Takaosanguchi Station where you can buy items before departure. At the summit and Yakuoin Temple, you can also purchase amazake, mushroom soup, dumplings, soft-serve ice cream, and more.

Q:Q: What about lunch? A: After the descent, we will have a slightly late lunch at a tattoo-friendly hot spring facility near the station. You can enjoy kamameshi and dishes made with local ingredients, as well as draft craft beer (please note that the cost is at your own expense).

Q: Do I have to enter the hot spring? A: No, it’s optional. Those who do not enter the hot spring can spend time enjoying meals or resting in the facility.

Q: How long is the hike? A: The hike takes about 1.5 hours one way.

Q: Are there age limits or participation requirements? A: This tour is for participants aged 18 and above. Strollers, wheelchairs, and those with mobility issues cannot participate.

Q: Is the hiking route fixed? A: The route may change depending on weather and crowd conditions. Safety is our top priority, so please rest assured.

Q: What happens on rainy or stormy days? A: The tour operates even in light rain, though some shops or summit facilities may be closed. In severe weather, hiking will be canceled, and instead, we will take the cable car both ways, visit Yakuoin Temple, and then spend time at the hot spring.

Q: What clothing and items do you recommend? A: Comfortable walking shoes, drinking water, light snacks (such as chocolate or nuts you can eat while walking), a change of clothes after the onsen, and a sweat-wiping towel are recommended. In case of rain, please bring rain gear (an umbrella or rainwear).

Please note that the organizer cannot take responsibility for any injuries, illnesses, or loss/damage of personal belongings during the tour. We kindly ask you to take care of yourself so you can enjoy the experience safely. To ensure everyone has a pleasant time, we ask guests to refrain from disruptive behavior. If such behavior continues after a reminder, the tour may need to be ended without refund. Depending on the situation, significant or repeated itinerary changes may require an additional fee. Thank you for your understanding.

During busy seasons such as autumn leaves and cherry blossoms, the chair lift for the return trip may be extremely crowded. In that case, we will enjoy a pleasant walk down the mountain via Trail No.1. It usually takes about 30–40 minutes at a relaxed pace. Please wear comfortable shoes and look forward to the walk!

English guidance is provided with the latest translation device. Basic railway and hiking terms can be explained in English.

All photos used for this tour listing are completely unedited and show the scenery exactly as it is. In spring you will find cherry blossoms, in early summer fresh green leaves, in autumn vibrant fall colors, and in winter crisp clear air. Please take a look at these seasonal images of Mt. Takao—which change greatly depending on the season and weather—and compare them with the time of year you plan to visit.

Due to the hot spring’s policy, this tour is for guests aged 18 and over.

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 distinctive orange T-shirt with a train design, making him easy to spot (see reference 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.