JojoSummiting Mt. Mitake is a relatively easy feat, especially with the option to take a cable car halfway up the mountain. For those looking to skip the strenuous climb, this makes the hike much more accessible. Even with a heavy backpack filled with snacks and a shorter stride, reaching the summit at 929 meters is achievable in about 30 minutes. For those who wish to skip the cable car, it will take just an extra hour to reach the peak if you hike all the way up.
In 2025, after the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and the increased interest in nature escapes post-pandemic, Mt. Mitake continues to be a top choice for city dwellers seeking a quick getaway into nature. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-timer, the mountain’s easy access and stunning scenery offer a perfect way to experience the beauty of Japan’s outdoors.
Also read: Tokyo Bucket List: 20 Challenges For Your Next Trip
Image credit: Shao Hua | Photongraphics
Mt. Mitake is located on the western side of Tokyo, about 90 minutes from the city centre by train. If you happen to catch a local train, which stops at every station, the journey can take up to two hours. However, the trip is well worth it – Mitakesan offers stunning views and a peaceful escape from the city.
Image credit: Shao Hua | Photongraphics
An escape from the tourist crowds
One of the best things about Mt. Mitake is its peaceful atmosphere. While it can be popular among locals on weekends, it is still free from the large tourist crowds. Compared to the famous Mt. Takao, Mitakesan is much less crowded and more relaxed. If you’re looking to enjoy nature without the bustle of tourists, Mitakesan is the perfect choice. During one visit, the beauty of the hike was so overwhelming that the only reaction was to shout “i-i-ne” (pronounced ee-ee-neh), which means “I feel so good” in Japanese.
Image credit: Shao Hua | Photongraphics
Image credit: Shao Hua | Photongraphics
Image credit: Shao Hua | Photongraphics
Image credit: Shao Hua | Photongraphics
Musashimitake Shrine: A must-visit place for dog lovers
After exiting the top cable car station, turn left and follow the signs. A short, easy 30-minute walk will take you to Musashimitake Shrine, located at the summit of Mt. Mitake. Along the way, you’ll pass through the village, the Mitake Visitor Center, and a shopping street before reaching the shrine’s torii gate.
Image credit: Shao Hua | Photongraphics
Keep an eye out for the self-service fruit stall along the way. However, be sure to place the correct amount of coins into the piggy bank before taking some delicious, home-grown fruit with you.
Image credit: Shao Hua | Photongraphics
Now that the torii gate is in sight, be prepared for a challenging climb. The path up is long and steep, requiring extra effort and determination.
Image credit: Shao Hua | Photongraphics
Image credit: Shao Hua | Photongraphics
Image credit: Shao Hua | Photongraphics
Image credit: Shao Hua | Photongraphics
Dog owners will especially appreciate this spot, as there is a purification fountain for pets. The sign reads “for pets only!”.
Even if pets are left at home, visitors can still buy an omamori (a Japanese amulet or charm) for them. The omamori come in a pair, so one can be kept by the owner, and the smaller one can be attached to a pet’s collar. How thoughtful! And if you’re lucky, some friendly dog owners may even let you take a picture with their adorable Shiba Inus. Their cuteness is hard to resist!
Image credit: Shao Hua | Photongraphics
Image credit: Shao Hua | Photongraphics
The signboard reads: dogs are allowed in the restaurant.
Also read: 15 Must-Know Japanese Words to Survive a Trip to Japan
Traditional Japanese retreat on the mountain
Every traveller should stay in a ryokan at least once when visiting Japan, and many would agree with this. So why not do it on Mt. Mitake? While some may be sceptical, rest assured—this experience is well worth it.
Imagine waking up in a warm futon (traditional Japanese bedding), feeling refreshed after a restful sleep and a relaxing time in a private onsen the night before. Stepping onto the balcony for a morning stretch, you are greeted by breathtaking views. Just as you begin to wonder if this is real, you’re told that breakfast is ready. A traditional Japanese breakfast, likely the first and only one of the trip, awaits. If this is a dream, it’s one you’ll never want to wake up from.
Image credit: Shao Hua | Photongraphics
Image credit: Shao Hua | Photongraphics
Image credit: Shao Hua | Photongraphics
Image credit: Shao Hua | Photongraphics
To experience incredible Japanese hospitality, stay at Komadori Sanso. Komadori Sanso is about a 15 to 20-minute walk from the top cable car station (yes, on the way to Musashimitake Shrine). If you are lost, don’t be afraid to seek help from the villagers as they are all super friendly and helpful. Let the locals know where you are heading to and they will make sure you reach your destination safe and sound.
What else to do around Mt. Mitake
If you have plenty of time, another recommendation is to hike up a neighbouring mountain, Mt. Hinode. It takes about 90 minutes to get to the peak of Mt. Hinode from the top cable car station or an hour from Musashimitake Shrine.
You can also check out Nagaodaira, where many hikers will stop for a meal while enjoying the spectacular view of neighbouring mountains, Rock Garden and Nanayonotaki Waterfall. It is recommended to pack your own bento for this trip.
If you are not staying in a ryokan but want to enjoy onsen in the woods, Tsuru-tsuru onsen is the place to go. It is a 90-minute hike from Mt. Hinode, an ideal place to wash away your fatigue from the hike. You can take a bus from Tsuru-tsuru onsen to Musashi-Itsukaichi St. and get back to the city within an hour.
Getting here and approximate costs
Shinjuku St. –JR Chuo Line (for Takao)– Tachikawa St. –JR Ome Line (for Ome)– Ome St. –JR Ome Line (for Oku-tama)– Mitake St.
You can always use Hyperdia to search for your best route. The bottom line is, of course, to alight at Mitake Street.
Image credit: Shao Hua | Photongraphics
Exit from Mitake St., cross the road and turn left, and you will see a bus stop in less than 3 minutes. Catch the bus to Cable Shita. Upon reaching the Cable Shita bus stop, you will need another 3-minute walk to reach the Mt. Mitake cable car station.
Here’s an estimate of how much to spend for a day trip to Mt. Mitake:
| Train from Shinjuku St. to Mitake St. (round trip) | 920 yen * 2 = 1840 yen |
| Bus to Cable Shita station (round trip) | 280 yen * 2 = 560 yen |
| Cable car ride to the top cable car station (round trip) | 1,110 yen (If buy separately, it’s 590 yen per trip) |
| One meal (or you can choose to bring your own bento) | 1,000 yen |
| Total | 4,510 yen |
Also read: Day Trip to Kamakura: A Beautiful Coastal Town Near Tokyo
Mt. Mitake offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, with its easy access, stunning views, and peaceful atmosphere. Whether you’re hiking to the summit, visiting the Musashimitake Shrine, or enjoying a relaxing stay at a ryokan, this mountain provides a memorable and refreshing experience. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy nature without leaving the city behind.
