Three Trails And What it Takes To Get There

They say Japan isn’t just a place to visit — it’s a place to walk. From ancient highways to sacred peaks and forested temple trails, this country offers something for every hiker — even complete beginners.

When we were lucky enough to see Mt. Fuji (Fujisan) in the summer of 2024, our whole family agreed: climbing Fujisan would be our next adventure. The sun was just rising over its eastern slope, casting a golden light on the faraway hikers who had begun their trek in the early morning, lanterns in hand, hoping to witness the sunrise — goraikō. We were inspired. Energized. Ready to plan our next grand journey.

Weeks of research followed — and ultimately, we decided: nope. Bad idea.

First, Fujisan is snow-covered until July, and the official hiking season only lasts until September. Second, the summit stands at 3,776 meters (12,389 feet). Third, the hike can be strenuous — especially for senior hikers — and may take several days. Finally, there’s the matter of physical fitness. Neither Mary nor I had hiked in twenty years.

So, Fujisan will have to wait.

Next, we turned our sights to the Nakasendō Trail — once a vital route between Kyoto and Edo, now a scenic walk through the Kiso Valley, linking beautifully preserved post towns like Magome and Tsumago.

This trail is much more beginner-friendly. A typical walk between Magome and Tsumago takes just 2–3 hours through wooded paths, bamboo groves, and countryside dotted with tea houses and waterfalls. There are wooden inns, paper lanterns, and cobbled streets that transport you back to the Edo era.

It became our new focus. But after more research, we realized this trail comes with its own set of challenges: the trip can get pricey, it’s heavily touristed, and accommodations — like traditional ryokan inns — must be booked well in advance. (I’ll save the ryokan experience for another time.)

So, we pivoted once more. What’s the best trail to start on if you’re training for Fujisan?

The answer: Mt. Takao.

There are seven trails leading to the top of Mt. Takao, each offering unique views and graded across four levels of difficulty — level one being the easiest, level four the most challenging. We chose Trails 3 and 4, rated level 2: perfect for day-trippers, families, beginners, and, yes, seniors who haven’t hiked in two decades.

It was a lovely hike, combining nature and culture in a way only Japan can.

Happy client

Preparing for a hike to Mt. Takao is straightforward. It really is an ideal day trip from Tokyo for both beginning and experienced hikers.

Trail Selection

Mt. Takao offers eight distinct trails, each catering to different preferences. We chose trail 3 for our ascent and 4 for the descent due to their ease of climb and the views. There are other trails, some of which may be closed due to weather. Check ahead.

• Trail 1 (Omotesando Trail): The most popular and beginner-friendly route, it's paved and features attractions like Yakuōin Temple and the iconic "Octopus Cedar." Wikipedia+2Japan Travel Note+2Wikipedia+2

• Trail 6 & Inariyama Trail: These unpaved trails provide a more natural hiking experience, passing by waterfalls and offering serene forest views.

• Trail 4: Known for its suspension bridge, this trail offers a unique experience amidst lush greenery.

What to Wear

• Footwear: We chose to wear hiking shoes. Both my son and I wore Nortiv brand hiking shoes, while Mary wore Columbia brand hiking shoes. We will go into more details about these later. Whichever brand you go with the most important thing is your shoes need good traction. While sneakers might suffice on Trail 1, they can be slippery, especially in wet or snowy conditions.

• Clothing: Dress in layers to adapt to changing temperatures. Moisture-wicking base layers are recommended to keep sweat at bay. Avoid cotton, as it retains moisture and dries slowly.

• Accessories: In addition we brought hats and trekking poles

Essentials to Pack

• Water: Stay hydrated by bringing sufficient water, especially since some trails lack vending machines.

• Snacks: Pack snacks like nuts, energy bars, or fruits.

• Navigation Tools: Carry a map or a GPS-enabled device can help you stay on track.

• Light Source: If there's a chance you'll be hiking during dusk or later, carry a flashlight or headlamp, as trails are not illuminated at night.

• Trash Bag: Bring a bag to carry out your waste. There are few trash cans on the mountain,

Timing Your Hike

• Duration: A round-trip hike, including breaks, typically takes 3 to 4 hours.

• Cable Car & Lift Hours: These services usually cease operations by 6:00 PM. Ensure you check the schedule to avoid descending in the dark.

  With the right preparation, hiking Mt. Takao can be a rewarding hike, offering scenic views, cultural insights, and a refreshing escape from the city. Enjoy !