A Hike up Mount Takao for a Beautiful Sunset
My mate Derek told me he would hike up Mount Takao and asked me to go along in 2019. He wanted to see Tokyo’s nature and stars. It sounded like a good idea because I hadn’t been there for a few years. There was another reason. I had never seen its sunset. It was time to get that photograph.
Even though it was December and early winter, I decided to go. The weather forecast said sunny, so it seemed like the perfect opportunity. I’m glad I accepted his offer.
We got the Keio Line from Shinjuku to Takaosanguchi, the closest station to the mountain. The trip took about fifty minutes. After a soba lunch, we headed off to find our trail.
Ten trails are on Mount Takao, and we chose number one. According to the internet, it was beginner-friendly and had good views. We found a few parts steep, though. I’m sure anyone in reasonable shape could handle it.
We enjoyed the climb. Yes, some parts left us a little short of breath, but nothing was impossible. Jizo statues and small shrines were sprinkled along the path. We wondered what life might have been like in the old days.
The climb took less than two hours, even with my stopping to take photos. We were happy to breathe fresh air. Compared to downtown Tokyo, Mount Takao was mostly devoid of people. Those that we met gave us a friendly “Konnichiwa.” Derek got his wish.
It was great to reach the top. Walking around the temples and shrines was good fun, as we got some nice shots of the buildings and tengu. There was much to explore. The stairs were a problem. If you are looking for a free workout, they are perfect!
Around the temples, there were more people. They had come by different trails and the cable car. No one seemed to be heading to the top of Takao.
Once we reached the summit, we saw why few people were there. Clouds covered Mount Fuji. But we had a goal and wouldn’t give up easily. Things might change. They did! I’m glad we waited.
Gradually, more sky became visible. Eventually, Fuji’s summit poked its head out. Soon enough, half was uncovered. Strong winds were pushing the clouds around. As the sun continued to set, the sky’s colors changed. There were different yellows and oranges. Nature put on a show for us.
Before the sun finally went down, clouds formed a dragon-like shape. They coiled around the peak. I remembered Hokusai’s, “On Dragon Rising above Mount Fuji”. It was a great way to enjoy the last sunlight.
What of the stars when the light faded? Well, they were underwhelming. A few points of light appeared, but not too many nor too strongly. Maybe it was because of light pollution. We couldn’t spend time debating as the train was waiting!
The trip back from the top to the cable car was an experience. It was night, and there were no lights on the path. We had one torch and an iPhone to guide us.
Furthermore, the path wasn’t all paved. And it was pretty steep in some areas. The situation wasn’t the best.
As we got further down, more troubles hit us. Some areas near the temples were locked, and we stumbled around them. Still, we got to the cable car in one piece. A few people who had enjoyed the mountain’s beer garden joined us.
Photography problems on Mount Takao
- We went up the easiest path and found some of it difficult. Keep that in mind if you use other trails. Do your research before going.
- Overcrowding on trains in spring and autumn.
Where is Mount Takao?
It’s in Tokyo’s west, about an hour train ride from Shinjuku. Get off at Takaosanguchi. Hike up the mountain or get the cable car from there.
Conclusion
We had a great time that day. The hike up was enjoyable, as was the time at the peak (clouds included). My only complaint about Takao was that some trees and bushes were too high. That interfered with the views. If someone trimmed them, I’d be forever grateful.
Better illumination along the paths near the peak would be appreciated. It would make things safer. Lights would bring more people. Still, as it is, Mount Takao is a great place to spend time with friends and enjoy fabulous sunsets. I recommend it! Leave questions and comments below.
Rohan Gillett
Rohan has lived in Tokyo for 30+ years. He loves photography and plans to capture the entire city.
More Tokyo articles:
External related websites:
- Mount Takao Area – Keio Corporation website