Tokyo’s vibrant cityscape is punctuated by the serene beauty of Mount Takao, which offers visitors a unique blend of nature and tradition. The Walking Tour Mount Takao promises an immersive experience, guiding participants through lush forests, historic temples, and encounters with the region’s iconic wildlife. With comfortable transportation and an expert guide, this tour invites travelers to step away from the bustling city and discover the captivating essence of this remarkable natural and cultural haven.
Key Points
- Explore the natural beauty of Mount Takao, including lush forests, picturesque trails, and wildlife such as Japanese macaques.
- Experience the cultural heritage of the region by visiting the historic Yakuoin Temple and enjoying traditional Japanese dango snacks.
- Ride the convenient round-trip train and cable car transportation for a seamless and hassle-free tour experience.
- Prepare for the tour by wearing comfortable, sturdy shoes and bringing snacks, water, and sun protection to enhance overall enjoyment and safety.
- Discover the diverse range of natural attractions at Mount Takao, including the Monkey Park, Keikoku Valley, and well-maintained Takaosan Trails.
👉 Check out our guide to the 2 Best Craft Beer Tours And Tastings In Tokyo
Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Meeting and End Point
- Tour Inclusions
- Tour Schedule
- Preparing for the Tour
- Exploring Mount Takao
- Monkey Park and Dango Snack
- Tour Highlights and Experiences
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?
- Is the Tour Guide Fluent in Multiple Languages?
- Can I Purchase Additional Food Items During the Tour?
- Is There a Discount for Booking the Tour in Advance?
- Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Tokyo
- More Walking Tours in Tokyo
- More Tours in Tokyo
- More Tour Reviews in Tokyo
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Tokyo we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview
The Walking Tour Mount Takao offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty and traditional aspects of Tokyo’s Mount Takao.
This tour takes travelers on a journey through the lush forests and picturesque trails of the mountain, allowing them to discover the local wildlife, including the famous Japanese macaques.
Along the way, guests will experience the rich cultural heritage of the region, including a visit to the Monkey Park and a taste of traditional Japanese dango snacks.
With round-trip train and cable car transportation, this tour provides a seamless and immersive experience in Tokyo’s natural and cultural wonders.
If you're enjoying exploring Tokyo on foot, you'll love these other walking tours we recommend
Meeting and End Point
The meeting point for the Walking Tour Mount Takao is at the Happy Lemon Keio Shinjuku Shop, located inside the Keio Department Store, outside the station entrance.
Travelers should look for the tour guide with a ‘Snow Monkey Resorts’ tag.
The tour ends back at the same meeting point.
The key details are:
- Meeting Point: Happy Lemon Keio Shinjuku Shop
- Location: Inside Keio Department Store, outside station entrance
- Look for guide with ‘Snow Monkey Resorts’ tag
- End Point: Returns to meeting point
Tour Inclusions
This walking tour of Mount Takao includes several key inclusions to enhance the experience.
Travelers will receive round-trip train tickets from Shinjuku Station to Takaosanguchi Station. They’ll also enjoy a round-trip ride on the cable car.
The tour provides admission to the Monkey Park and monkey food for visitors. Plus, you will savor a traditional Dango snack.
An English-speaking local guide accompanies the group throughout the tour, sharing insights about the mountain’s nature and traditions.
These inclusions ensure a well-rounded and immersive exploration of Mount Takao’s natural and cultural wonders.
Tour Schedule
The walking tour of Mount Takao starts promptly at 9:20 am.
Participants will meet at the Happy Lemon Keio Shinjuku Shop, located inside the Keio Department Store, just outside the station entrance. Look for the tour guide with a ‘Snow Monkey Resorts’ tag.
The tour schedule includes:
- Taking the return train from Shinjuku Station to Takaosanguchi Station.
- Riding the cable car round-trip.
- Visiting the Monkey Park and feeding the monkeys.
- Enjoying a traditional Dango snack.
The tour culminates with a return to the original meeting point.
Preparing for the Tour
How can one best prepare for the walking tour of Mount Takao?
First, wear comfortable, sturdy shoes as the hike can be moderate in difficulty. Bring snacks, water, and sun protection like a hat and sunscreen.
Be aware that the tour involves a cable car ride, so those with a fear of heights should consider this. Plus, travelers with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions are advised against participating.
Exploring Mount Takao
Once the tour group has arrived at the meeting point and ensured they’ve the necessary gear, they can now embark on the main highlight – exploring the scenic wonders of Mount Takao.
The 1,959-meter mountain offers a diverse range of natural attractions, including:
- The Yakuoin Temple, a historic Buddhist temple dating back to the 8th century.
- The Monkey Park, where visitors can observe the playful Japanese macaques up close.
- The Keikoku Valley, known for its lush vegetation and tranquil streams.
- The Takaosan Trails, featuring well-maintained hiking paths that wind through the mountain’s forested landscape.
Monkey Park and Dango Snack
After ascending the mountain via the cable car, the tour group makes its way to the Monkey Park.
There, they’ll observe the local Japanese macaques, also known as snow monkeys, as they roam freely. The group is provided with monkey food to feed the curious creatures. This interactive experience allows visitors to get up close with the monkeys in their natural habitat.
Following the Monkey Park, the tour continues with a traditional Dango snack.
Dango are small, chewy rice dumplings, often served skewered and flavored. This sweet treat provides a delightful cultural taste of Japan.
Tour Highlights and Experiences
The walking tour of Mount Takao offers visitors a multifaceted experience. Travelers embark on a journey of culture and natural exploration.
The tour highlights include:
- Riding the cable car to ascend the mountain, providing stunning panoramic views.
- Visiting the sacred Monkey Park, where visitors can observe the playful Japanese macaques and feed them.
- Indulging in a traditional Japanese Dango, a sweet rice dumpling, as a delightful refreshment.
- Discovering the historical and spiritual significance of Mount Takao, known for its Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples.
Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable local guide provides insightful commentary, enriching the overall experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?
The tour does not explicitly state whether participants can bring their own food. It’s best to check with the tour provider to confirm the policy on outside food and snacks during the excursion.
Is the Tour Guide Fluent in Multiple Languages?
The tour guide is an English-speaking local, so they’re fluent in English. Whether they speak additional languages isn’t specified, but the focus is on providing an English-guided experience for this particular walking tour.
Can I Purchase Additional Food Items During the Tour?
Yes, participants can purchase additional food items during the tour. The tour includes a traditional Dango snack, but visitors are free to buy any other food or beverages they desire at the various stops along the way.
Is There a Discount for Booking the Tour in Advance?
Yes, there’s a discount for booking the tour in advance. The tour costs $170.84 per person, but booking early may provide a better price. Travelers should check with the tour provider for any early booking discounts.
Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?
Yes, you can extend the tour to visit additional sites, but you’ll need to coordinate this directly with the tour provider, Snow Monkey Resorts Tours. They can advise on available options and any additional costs for customizing the itinerary.
Walking Tour Mount Takao : Nature and Tradition in Tokyo
“I was pleasantly surprised and amazed by the breathtaking views and sceneries along the way while hiking up the Mount Takao. Jeff was very professi…”
Recap
The Walking Tour of Mount Takao offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, immersing participants in the serenity of Tokyo’s stunning landscapes. With comfortable transportation, an English-speaking guide, and unique experiences like visiting the Monkey Park and savoring traditional dango snacks, this tour promises both adventure and insight, providing a memorable escape from the bustling city.
