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

Overview

Available languages

Japanese

English

Mobile ticket

Welcome to the Samurai Training Ground.

Journey begins at Shinjuku Station.

Join the Samurai Guide on a beautiful railway journey to Mt. Takao and experience the “hidden techniques” of mastering Japan’s railways like a local.

With over 20 years of experience in both the railway industry and mountaineering, the Samurai wields a Suica card instead of a sword, guiding you round trip from Shinjuku to Mt. Takao.

Hike Mt. Takao for about 1.5 hours, calm your mind at the summit and temple, savor local specialties, relax in a hot spring, and by the time you return to Shinjuku, your body and mind will be refreshed.

This is the “Samurai Way of Travel” — a journey through nature, railways, and spirit.

No hiking gear needed; sneakers are fine.

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.)

Additional Info

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: What about lunch? A: After descending, you can enjoy soba noodles, tempura, ramen, sashimi, beer, sake, and more at the hot spring facility directly connected to Takaosanguchi Station (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: What do I need for the hot spring? A: Towels are available for rent (for a fee). Swimwear is not required. Please note that those with tattoos may not be allowed entry.

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 10 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, and a towel are recommended.

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.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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.)

Train fare (Shinjuku ⇄ Takaosanguchi round trip)

Lift fee

Onsen admission

Personal food and drink expenses

What To Expect

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.

5 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

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.

1 hour 10 minutes • Admission Not Included

Options