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

If you’re craving a break from Tokyo’s relentless urban buzz, a trip to Mt. Takao offers a wonderful blend of nature, spirituality, and local flavor—all within a manageable day trip. For $120, this 7 to 8-hour guided experience includes a scenic cable car ride, visits to sacred temples, the chance to see wild monkeys, a delicious local lunch, and a visit to a tattoo-friendly hot spring. Led by a friendly, fluent guide, you’ll feel more like exploring with a knowledgeable friend than part of a rigid tour group.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances active exploration with moments of relaxation—the cable car and suspension bridge offer spectacular views, while the hot springs provide a soothing end. Plus, the tour’s inclusion of local favorites like ramen and Soba makes it both authentic and tasty. The only potential drawback? If you’re not keen on walking or physical activity, some parts—like walking to the temples or the suspension bridge—might feel a bit demanding. But overall, this is a perfect fit for travelers who want a deep, genuine taste of Japan’s natural and spiritual traditions without straying too far from Tokyo.

This tour suits nature lovers, cultural explorers, and foodies alike—especially those interested in a personalized experience that steers clear of overly crowded or commercialized attractions. With small group sizes and a relaxed guide, you’ll get plenty of insights and tips along the way.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines scenic views, sacred sites, and local cuisine in a single trip.
• Personalized Guide: Friendly, fluent guide makes the day informative and relaxed.
• Unique Hot Spring Visit: Tattoo-friendly onsen offers a comfortable bathing experience for all.
• Spectacular Views: Includes cable car, suspension bridge, and panoramic vista of Mt. Fuji.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, with manageable walking and activities.
• Great Value: Includes meals, transport fees, temple entrance, and hot springs for $120.

Starting at Takaosanguchi Station: Ease of Access

The tour begins conveniently at Takaosanguchi Station, just a short train ride from central Tokyo’s Shinjuku Station. This ease of access is a big plus, meaning you won’t spend hours getting to the mountain—just enough time to get excited. You’ll meet your guide, who will be your friendly companion for the day, ready to share insights in fluent English and Japanese.

The Takao 599 Museum: Setting the Stage

Your first stop is the Takao 599 Museum, which is free and takes about 10 minutes. Here, you’ll get an overview of what Mt. Takao has to offer. Think of it as a quick primer that sparks your curiosity for what’s ahead. It’s a nice, low-pressure way to begin, especially if you’re curious about the mountain’s history and natural environment.

Takaotozan Cable Car: Scenic Ride Up

Next, you’ll hop onto the scenic cable car or chair lift—included in your ticket—offering a relaxing ride that cuts a good chunk off the climb and provides stunning views of the surrounding forest and city skyline. This 15-minute ride is often highlighted as a tour favorite; it’s a smooth way to start soaking in the scenery and setting a peaceful tone for the day.

Sacred Trees and Wildlife Encounters

On your ascent, you’ll visit the Octopus Cedar Tree (Takaosugi)—a sacred natural monument. The walk to the peak is dotted with beautiful trees, notably the sacred cedar. It’s a quick stop, but one that adds a spiritual dimension to your hike.

Along the way, you will also visit the Monkey Park and Wild Grass Garden, where you can observe wild monkeys in their habitat. The 15-minute stop is cherished by travelers for the chance to see these lively animals up close. As one reviewer said, “We loved the way the guide explained the monkeys’ behavior and habitat,” which adds a layer of understanding to the natural experience.

Visiting Yakuo-in Temple: Spiritual Depth

Walking through Yakuo-in Temple, you’ll get a peaceful break amidst traditional Japanese architecture. The temple’s tranquil atmosphere contrasts nicely with the outdoor excitement, and it’s a chance to appreciate the spiritual traditions that are woven into the mountain’s history.

Mt. Fuji Views from the Peak

Reaching the summit, you’ll be rewarded with views of Mt. Fuji, weather allowing. Many find this checkpoint the highlight, taking photos and simply marveling at the imposing silhouette of Japan’s iconic volcano. It’s a moment of calm and awe, particularly on clear days.

Lunch: Local Ramen and Soba

After the ascent, the group stops at Gomadokoro Gongen Chaya, known for its hearty Hachioji Ramen or Soba noodles—both local favorites. The 30-minute lunch is a chance to rest and indulge in authentic Japanese flavors. The reviews praise the ramen for its authenticity; it’s not just a meal but part of the cultural experience.

Walking Down and Over a Suspension Bridge

Descending via a scenic route, you’ll cross a beautiful suspension bridge, adding a touch of adventure. The 5-minute walk over it is described as a “delightful” way to end your trek, with some reviews noting the “stunning scenery” from the bridge.

Relaxation at Tattoo-Friendly Hot Spring

Your tour culminates at Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu, a hot spring that welcomes tattoos, which can often be a concern at traditional onsens in Japan. With indoor and outdoor baths, a cold plunge, and sauna, it’s a perfect way to unwind after a day of activity. Expect to spend about 1.5 hours here, soaking and resetting. Many reviewers mention how much they appreciated the relaxed atmosphere and the quality of the baths.

For $120, this tour packs in multiple experiences: scenic rides, cultural visits, wildlife encounters, authentic food, and a relaxing soak. The price covers transportation—cable car and chair lift fees—as well as entrance fees for the monkey park and hot springs plus a generous lunch. That’s quite comprehensive, especially considering the small group size, which allows for personalized tips and a more relaxed pace.

The inclusion of a tattoo-friendly hot spring is a thoughtful touch, helping to eliminate one of the barriers many travelers face in Japan. The guide’s friendly demeanor and fluency really help to make the experience feel seamless and engaging.

How the Tour Feels in Practice

From the reviews, it’s clear most travelers find this tour to be well-organized and deeply enjoyable. One called it “an amazing tour with an amazing guide,” noting the educational and fun nature of the trip. Many praise how the guide explains the significance of sacred sites and the behaviors of the monkeys, adding layers of meaning that enrich the experience.

You’ll find that the tour balances guided commentary with free time, giving you space to take photos, contemplate the views, or just relax. The small group size—limited to 7 travelers—ensures a personal touch that big tours often lack.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable walking shoes—the terrain varies from smooth cable car rides to more rugged paths.
• Bring a change of clothes if you plan to soak in the hot springs, as you might want to change out of your travel attire.
• Check the weather forecast—clear days will give you better views of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding landscape.
• Consider bringing snacks or drinks if you want extra refreshment along the way; they are not included.
• If you’re concerned about tattoos, this tour’s hot spring option makes it more accessible, a rare find in Japan.

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, cultural explorers, and foodies who want a genuine taste of Japan outside Tokyo’s city center. It suits travelers who appreciate small-group experiences and personalized guides, especially those interested in seeing wildlife or visiting sacred sites. It’s also great for those seeking relaxation after sightseeing, thanks to the hot spring finale.

If you’re short on time but want a full, authentic day involving scenic beauty, local cuisine, and cultural insights, this tour hits all the right notes.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, including travel, sightseeing, lunch, and hot springs.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it involves walking and some physical activity. The tour is family-friendly, but consider your group’s comfort with outdoor activities.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes lunch (ramen or soba), cable car and chair lift fees, monkey park entry, and hot spring admission.

Are there any additional costs?
Snacks or drinks along the way are not included, so bringing extra money for these is advisable.

Can I participate if I have tattoos?
Yes, the hot spring we visit is tattoo-friendly, making it accessible for everyone.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour starts at Takaosanguchi Station, easily reachable by train from central Tokyo.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must. If you plan to soak in the hot springs afterward, bringing a change of clothes is a good idea.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
Clear days provide the best views of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding scenery, so check the weather forecast before booking.

This Mt. Takao tour offers a thoughtfully curated blend of natural beauty, cultural depth, and relaxation, making it an excellent escape from Tokyo’s hustle. With friendly guides, plenty of authentic experiences, and options for tattooed visitors, it’s tailored for those who want a genuine slice of Japan’s mountainside charm. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Japan traveler, this trip promises memorable views, cultural insights, and a chance to unwind in style.

If you’re after a day that balances activity with relaxation, and a genuine connection to local sights and flavors, this tour truly delivers. It’s a wonderful way to see a different side of Tokyo—one filled with natural wonders, spiritual sites, and warm hospitality.