Went to Takao-san (Mount Takao) (599m) where you can enjoy hiking close to the heart of Tokyo.

Takao-san is a very popular mountain. From the time it was introduced on Michelin Guide, 2.6million people, regardless of nationality, visit each year.
Takao-san is the mountain with the most climbers in the world.

We found a climbing route map of Takao-san at the Takao-san guchi (Mount Takao’s entrance) station.
We first checked the routes because it was our first time.

Climbing begins!

Today, we chose to climb the Hebitaki course, which leads up a steep mountain trail from the start.
As we entered the course, the paved roads changed to a mountain trail in the forest.

I am already losing my breath.

The uphill climb still continues. The roots of the trees have jutted out into the path, so we took extra care of where we put our feet so we didn’t fall. How the roots have become exposed was interesting to see.

This is the waterfall training area.

You can actually try standing under the waterfall but I was not brave enough so I just took a picture.

This green scenery that lets you forget you are in Tokyo, reviving us.

When we checked the map, it seemed that it would still take another 2 hours until we could reach the top, so I was surprised.
I regretted coming and thinking it would be an easy walk instead of a proper mountain climb…
Maybe because of my lack of exercise, my legs were aching.
When I noticed that many climbers had passed and some old ladies cheered for me saying, “You’re almost there!”
I had to move on anyways so I recovered myself and proceeded along the course.

After I climbed the final challenge, I arrived at the summit! The view was great.
The view that faces towards Chiba was waiting there.
The air was clean, the green surroundings were great, and I was even able to see Mt. Fuji in the distance. I was satisfied.

Lunch time!
The lunch at the summit was great!Beer and Ramune (Japanese lemonade) were sold so I bought Ramune, which I love.

Related Post:
*Takaosan (Mt. Takao) Walking Guide Part2