Mount Kobotoke-Shiroyama - Kanagawa, Japan
Although today was technically a travel day, I wanted to fit in a hike before heading to my next destination. I’d heard Mount Takao is easily accessible from Tokyo and hadn’t visited before, so I decided to stop. With multiple trail options and a cable car, it’s suitable for all fitness levels. Looking at the map, I chose Trail 6 up and Trail 4 down.
Trail 6 is said to be challenging, but I found it manageable. I crossed a shallow stream—dry shoes ensured—but you can switch to the Inariyama Trail here to avoid it. The climb was relatively quick, so I continued toward Mount Kobotoke-Shiroyama (670 m). Just before this section, a large sign warned hikers to gauge their skill and time—you don’t want to get stuck after dark. The trail began with a descent before climbing again, and the viewpoints along the way offered stunning Mt. Fuji panoramas. Some spots were muddy, but the scenery made it worth the effort.
At the summit of Mount Kobotoke-Shiroyama, there was a small rest area with basic shops and toilets. I only stopped briefly to use the facilities and take a short break. I considered descending via a different trail but decided against it, as it might complicate my onward transport. I headed back the same way, planning to explore the other trail on a future visit.
On the descent toward Mount Takao, I paused at a small soba shop to refuel, then continued down Trail 4. Midway, I switched to Trails 2 and 1, passing a small waterfall used for spiritual practice. It’s fenced off, but you can still see where visitors would stand beneath it.
Finally, I returned to the train station and continued on to my destination.
History & Background
Mount Takao – Mount Takao (599 m) is a sacred mountain with over a thousand years of history. Home to Takaosan Yakuo-in Temple, it was a popular pilgrimage site during the Edo period and remains a favourite for hikers seeking temples, forest trails, and views of Mount Fuji.
Mount Kobotoke-Shiroyama – Mount Kobotoke-Shiroyama (670 m) once hosted a small feudal-era fortress, giving it the name “castle mountain.” Today, it offers peaceful forest trails and scenic viewpoints along the Takao–Jinba ridge.
Getting There
The easiest way to reach Mount Takao is from Shinjuku Station. Take the direct Keio Line train to Takaosanguchi Station, which drops you right at the base of the mountain. From there, it’s a short walk to the cable car station and the trailheads.
I started my journey from Higashi-Hanno Station, which required a few transfers. I took the Hachiko Line to Hachioji, then transferred to the Chuo Line for Takao Station, and finally hopped on the Takao Line to Takaosanguchi Station.
Route Overview
Distance: 14.34 km out & back (Takaosanguchi Station)
Total elevation gain: 841 m
Duration: 3 hr 18 min (with breaks 4 hr 4 min)
Difficulty: Intermediate
Peaks: Mt Takao 高尾山 599m, Mt Kobotoke-Shiroyama 小仏城 670m
Cost Breakdown
Train: Higashi-Hanno Station → Takaosanguchi Station — ¥730
Food: ¥1,100
