Tokyo: Mt Takao Tour with Ramen and Tattoo-Okay Hot Spring

Experience a different side of Tokyo with this engaging day trip to Mount Takao. For $120 per person, you’ll spend around a full day discovering lush forests, scenic views, and local culture. Your journey includes a cable car ride, a flavorful ramen lunch, and a relaxing soak in a hot spring that’s welcoming for those with tattoos. Led by knowledgeable guides, it’s a well-rounded experience that blends nature, culture, and fun.

Two things we particularly love about this tour: first, the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji from the summit—an iconic photo moment you won’t want to miss. Second, the hot spring visit, especially since it’s tattoo-friendly, making it accessible to everyone. Conversely, a consideration is that the hike can be quite demanding for some, so comfortable shoes and a good level of fitness are recommended.

This tour suits travelers looking for an authentic outdoor experience outside Tokyo’s urban sprawl, those eager for nature, and anyone curious about local Japanese traditions. It also works well for visitors who want flexibility and personalized attention, given the positive reviews about guides who adapt to individual needs.

Key Points

• Scenic Cable Car & Chair Lift: Enjoy effortless transport up Mt. Takao, saving energy for the hike and sightseeing.
• Wildlife & Nature: Visit a lively monkey park, walk scenic trails, and learn about the mountain’s natural environment.
• Authentic Food: Savor a Hachioji Ramen lunch, a local favorite, with flavors that showcase regional culinary pride.
• Stunning Views: Catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji from the mountain’s peak on clear days—an unforgettable highlight.
• Tattoo-Friendly Hot Spring: Relax in a traditional onsen where tattoos are welcomed—true to Japan’s more open hot spring culture.
• Customizable Experience: From flexible routes to personalized attention, guides tailor the day to your pace and interests.

While Tokyo dazzles with neon lights, towering skyscrapers, and bustling streets, it’s a surprisingly easy task to find peaceful escapes just a short trip away. The tour to Mount Takao offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, cultural insight, and relaxation—all at a reasonable price of $120. Led by engaging guides, this experience invites you to step beyond the city’s hustle and reconnect with nature, local wildlife, and Japan’s traditional hot springs.

What sets this adventure apart is the combination of scenic transportation, delicious food, and unique hot spring experiences. You’ll start at Hachioji Station, where your guide will be waiting with a bright yellow tennis ball, a cheerful signal that you’re in good hands. From there, the journey quickly shifts from urban to natural, with the first highlight being a cable car ride up the mountain. This effortless ascent offers spectacular views—expect to see Fuji if the weather cooperates—while saving your energy for the walk and exploration ahead.

Two aspects we love include the opportunity to observe monkeys in their natural habitat at the Monkey Park and the chance to soak in a tattoo-friendly hot spring, a rare find in Japan. These touches make the tour feel both authentic and inclusive. The meal—Hachioji Ramen—is another standout, showcasing a local favorite that adds flavor to your day of discovery.

A possible drawback is the duration and intensity of the hike. For those with limited mobility or who prefer a very leisurely day, it’s worth noting that some parts involve a 3-4 hour hike. Guides are flexible and will offer options, but it’s best to come prepared with comfortable shoes and a reasonable level of fitness.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers, nature lovers, and curious cultural explorers. If you’re looking for an authentic, personalized experience that combines scenic beauty with local flavor, this trip is a solid choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Start at Hachioji Station: Your guide, Jordan, or another friendly expert, will greet you at the ticket gates. This initial meeting point is easy to find and marks the beginning of your journey into nature.

Visit the Takao 599 Museum: This small but informative museum offers a quick overview of the mountain’s natural environment. It’s a good primer for understanding the flora, fauna, and geology of the area.

Cable Car & Chair Lift Ride: These modes of transport are the highlights for many visitors. They offer panoramic views and a relaxing ride up the mountain, preserving energy for the more engaging parts of the day.

Hike & Summit: You have options to walk or take a more leisurely route to the summit, which offers spectacular views of Mt. Fuji on clear days. The walk can be 3-4 hours, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and carry water.

Monkey Park: Your guide will take you past the lively monkey habitat, where you can observe these intelligent creatures in a natural-looking environment. It’s a popular spot, loved for its playful animals and educational value.

Lunch Break: The Hachioji Ramen restaurant provides a hearty, regional dish—perfect after the hike. The ramen’s rich broth and noodles are a local favorite, adding a flavorful break to your mountain day.

Scenic Suspension Bridge & Photos: Walking past scenic spots like suspension bridges offers memorable photos and a chance to appreciate Japan’s craftsmanship and natural beauty.

Back Down & Onsen Visit: The descent by cable car makes the return comfortable. Then, you’ll head to a tattoo-friendly hot spring—a true highlight for many. Here, you can relax in various springs, enjoy the clean mountain air, and unwind in a setting that welcomes all visitors.

Final Relaxation & Reflection: Towels are provided, and the hot spring experience is both rejuvenating and culturally enriching. Some reviews mention how comfortable and unpretentious the atmosphere is, even if you’re new to onsen culture.

What Travelers Say

Authentic and personalized: Many reviewers praise the guides for their flexibility and knowledge. One noted, “Jordan truly made the tour perfect by giving us the flexibility to choose the options that worked best for us.” Others mention how guides patiently waited when travelers were late or needed adjustments.

Stunning views & memorable food: The chance to see Mt. Fuji from the peak is a highlight for many—“beautiful view of Mt. Fuji on clear days,” as one reviewer described. The ramen lunch consistently earns praise as a local, flavorful treat.

Relaxing hot springs: Multiple reviews highlight the hot spring experience—“the onsens were sensational,” and “it was one of the best parts of the trip,” sums up how visitors feel about unwinding in natural springs, especially when they are tattoo-friendly.

Suitable for all: The tour’s flexibility means even those who aren’t big hikers can enjoy the scenic ride and relaxed exploration, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Practical Details & Tips

Transportation: The meeting point at Hachioji Station is straightforward, and the tour includes a cable car and chair lift, which are part of the experience. The hot spring visit involves a scenic 35-minute drive through local towns and mountains, providing a chance to see a less touristy side of Tokyo.

Duration & Group Size: Most of the day is spent outdoors, with some walking and optional hiking, totaling around 3-4 hours of hiking if you choose the full route. Guided groups tend to be small and intimate, allowing for personalized interaction.

What to bring: Wear comfortable shoes, as the hike can be demanding. A change of clothes is recommended to enjoy the hot spring comfortably afterward. Sunscreen, a hat, and water are also wise to carry.

Cost & Value: At $120, the tour offers a lot—an effortless ascent, cultural insights, a tasty meal, wildlife viewing, and a relaxing hot spring. Reviews suggest that many find this to be excellent value for money, especially considering the personalized attention and quality of experiences.

Flexible booking: You can reserve without immediate payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance, making it a low-risk option for spontaneous travelers.

Final Thoughts

This Mount Takao day trip combines the natural beauty of Japan’s mountains with authentic local culture and a touch of relaxation. It’s perfect for those who want an active yet manageable outdoor adventure, with the added benefit of a tattoo-friendly onsen—a rare find in Japan.

Guides like Jordan receive high praise for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to tailor the experience to your pace. The views of Mt. Fuji, the chance to see monkeys in the wild, and the chance to unwind in a natural hot spring make this tour a memorable highlight of any Tokyo visit.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, it’s a day that balances adventure, culture, and relaxation with genuine authenticity.

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FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or older adults?
Yes, but keep in mind that the hike can be 3-4 hours long. The cable car and chair lift help minimize the walking, making it accessible for most ages with some mobility.

Do I need to be in good shape to enjoy this tour?
While the hike is optional and flexible, some parts involve walking or a moderate hike. Comfortable shoes are a must, and the guide can suggest routes based on your fitness level.

What should I bring for the hot spring visit?
A change of clothes is recommended, as well as a towel (provided), and perhaps your own toiletries if you prefer. The hot springs are tattoo-friendly, so no worries there.

How far in advance should I book?
Since the tour can be flexible with booking and cancellation, reserving a few days ahead is advisable, especially in peak seasons.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If the weather prevents good mountain views or the cable car ride, guides will typically offer alternative options or reschedule. Always check the weather forecast beforehand.

Is the ramen lunch included?
Yes, the Hachioji Ramen lunch is part of the package, providing a hearty regional meal after your morning activity.

Can I customize this tour?
Guides are known for their flexibility, allowing you to choose routes, how long to stay, and whether to skip certain parts like the hike, making it adaptable to your needs.

Will I see Mt. Fuji?
On clear days, yes—the summit offers a spectacular view of Japan’s iconic mountain. Cloudy weather might obscure the view, but the experience is still worthwhile.

This tour offers a balanced mix of nature, culture, and relaxation. It’s a fantastic way to explore a lesser-known side of Tokyo without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. If you’re after a memorable, authentic, and fun day out in Japan’s mountains, this experience is well worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: