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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.)
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.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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
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.
2 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
B7383EQlaureng,
Nov 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
I had a great time with Sho (tour guide) he was very friendly and made the trip a great time! He was insistent on getting me great pictures to capture the moment and made sure I loved them. Even though we do not speak the same language we still had a great conversations during the whole trip! He is a family man and is dedicated to making sure the hike pleasant for you. Sho also made sure that the pace was okay for me, as there were some trickier parts. The length of the visit was well worth the money! Outside of the hike there were many small stores, ramen shops, and temples/shrines at the top of the mountain. Quick note: He is also very responsive, initially I had difficulty finding the meeting location (i had a typo in) but he responded very quick and helped me find it.





KIDO K,
Nov 27, 2025
- Review from Viator
The guide was very friendly and kind. The guide will kindly provide information about Mount Takao, Japan, and how to use the railways. Not only Mount Takao, but also the railways and their history are introduced. Thanks to you, I was able to enjoy a pleasant time. Mount Takao was a wonderful place. It is a meaningful time to experience abundant nature and immerse yourself in Japanese history. And the gourmet food is delicious too. I'd like to experience it again if I get the chance. We recommend climbing Mount Takao with this guide.










Operated by Discover Western Tokyo