Mt. Mitake: Day Trip from Tokyo via Public Transportation

Tony Xia - (YamaTrips.Japan)
Itinerary created by
Tony Xia
What you’ll do

Highlights:

  • Day trip with stunning views and rich cultural history.

  • Perfect balance of light hiking, historic exploration, and natural beauty.

  • A peaceful alternative to more crowded hiking destinations near Tokyo.

Perfect for:

  • Beginner to intermediate hikers: 4 hours, 7 km distance, with a 500 m elevation gain

  • Nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat

  • Budget-conscious travelers looking for an affordable day trip

  • Those interested in Japan’s cultural and spiritual history

  • Accessing via Public Transportation

Budget:

  • Approx. 10,000 yen per person (including train fare, food, and entry fees)

Best months:

  • Year-round (May~June and September~November are especially beautiful)

Why Visit Mt. Mitake?

  1. Rich History:
    At the summit of Mt. Mitake stands Musashi-Mitake Shrine, one of Tokyo’s most sacred spots. With a history spanning over 2,000 years, this shrine holds deep cultural significance and offers a glimpse into Japan’s spiritual heritage.

  2. Variety of Trails:
    Mt. Mitake offers trails for all skill levels, ranging from 2-hour beginner-friendly routes to 8-hour treks for seasoned hikers. Whether you’re looking for a light walk or a full-day adventure, there’s something for everyone.

  3. Tranquility:
    Unlike the often-crowded Mt. Takao, Mt. Mitake provides a quieter experience, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in nature and history without the rush of large crowds.

  4. Accessibility:
    Just 100 minutes from Shinjuku Station, Mt. Mitake is an easy and convenient day trip for those staying in Tokyo.

Tips:

  • Bring cash for transportation and local shops.

  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes and dress in layers.

  • It may snow in winter months between January and February

8:00 Depart from Shinjuku Station on the JR Chuo Line to Ome Line, then transfer at Ome to Okutama Line getting off at Mitake Station (approx. 100 minutes).

1

Mitake Station
Mitake Station
Transportation hub to Mount Mitake
Category
Public Transport
Transport Type
train
Direction
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2.8 km (1.7 mi)

5 min

10:00 Take a bus or taxi from Mitake Station to the cable car station, then ride the cable car to Mt. Mitake’s summit area.

2

Takimoto cable car Station for Mt. Mitake
Takimoto cable car Station for Mt. Mitake
Convenient cable car to Mt. Mitake
Category
Public Transport
Est. Price
$
Transport Type
other
Direction
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2.4 km (1.5 mi)

6 min

11:00 Stroll around the area enjoying various viewpoints and street food along the way to the Musashi-Mitake Shrine where you can soak in its historic atmosphere, and enjoy the views. It is about a 30 minute stroll from the cable car station.

3

Musashi Mitake Shrine
Musashi Mitake Shrine
Sacred mountain shrine in Tokyo
Category
Historic
Direction
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32.1 km (20 mi)

1 hr 1 min

12:00 For lunch, you can choose from several restaurants near the base of the shrine, offering traditional local dishes like soba and teishoku. Alternatively, you can pack your own meal and enjoy it during your hike to Mitake Rock Garden, surrounded by nature.

4

Mitake Rock Garden
Mitake Rock Garden
Tranquil oasis in nature
Category
Hike
Est. Duration
1-2h
Direction
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1.2 km (0.7 mi)

2 min

14:00 Continue your way to the summit of Mt. Hinode then hike down to Tsuru Tsuru Onsen from there.

5

Hinodesan
Hinodesan
Scenic hiking spot near Tokyo
Category
Hike
Est. Duration
2-3h
Direction
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20.8 km (12.9 mi)

37 min

16:00 Hike down to Tsuru Tsuru Onsen, a relaxing hot spring perfect for soothing tired muscles after the hike. The food here is also quite good so you can also enjoy dinner here.

6

Tsurutsuru Onsen
Tsurutsuru Onsen
Onsen for after hiking the Mitake to Mt. Hinode trail
Category
Hot Spring
Est. Price
$
Direction
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18:00 Take a local bus or taxi to Musashi-Itsukaichi Station, returning to Shinjuku Station by 21:00.