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

Exploring Tokyo often means battling crowds and navigating urban landscapes, but this tour offers an escape into nature, offering a refreshing perspective on Japan’s scenery and traditions. Hosted by Irie Tokyo Tours, the experience combines scenic mountain views, cultural encounters, and relaxing moments—all for an accessible price of $120 per person.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the way it balances adventure with relaxation, especially with the inclusion of a tattoo-friendly hot spring, making it particularly welcoming for all visitors. The knowledgeable guide, Jordan, is praised for his flexibility and deep local insights, ensuring a personalized experience. The stunning views of Mt Fuji from the summit are a major highlight, alongside the chance to hang out with monkeys and enjoy authentic ramen. One thing to consider? The hike can be quite challenging for some, as it’s roughly a 3-4 hour trek, so good shoes are a must. This tour is ideal for those seeking a mix of nature, culture, and relaxation, especially if you’re keen to explore beyond the typical Tokyo tourist trail.

Good To Know

• Accessible price point provides excellent value for a full day of activities.
• Expert guides like Jordan elevate the experience with personalized attention and local knowledge.
• Variety of highlights—from scenic cable cars to hot springs—keeps the day engaging and relaxing.
• Tattoo-friendly hot spring ensures everyone can enjoy the traditional Japanese onsen without worry.
• Spectacular views of Mt Fuji make the summit a must-see, especially on clear days.
• Authentic Japanese food with a hearty ramen lunch adds a delicious cultural touch.
• Flexible itinerary allows guests to tailor the experience, including options for walking or taking the chair lift.
• Nature and wildlife enthusiasts will love the Monkey Park and scenic suspension bridge.

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Exploring Mount Takao: A Natural Retreat Close to Tokyo

For many travelers, the idea of escaping Tokyo’s hustle and bustle is appealing, and Mount Takao offers just that. Located on Honshu, this mountain is often thought of as a day-trip destination, but the tour elevates that experience by providing a comprehensive, guided journey. The tour begins at Hachioji Station, where the guide, Jordan, greets guests with a bright yellow tennis ball—an easy way to spot him among the crowd.

Transport and Accessibility
The tour includes a scenic cable car ride, which takes you partway up the mountain, reducing the physical strain of the ascent and providing instant panoramic views. For those keen on a more adventurous route, a chair lift is available, offering another perspective of the lush surroundings. The actual hike to the summit takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, with some reviews noting that it’s quite a challenging walk, so good sneakers and a moderate fitness level are recommended.

What You’ll See and Do
Once on the mountain, you’ll encounter a small nature museum—the Takao 599 Museum—that showcases the area’s flora and fauna, setting the tone for a nature-filled day. Along the trail, you’ll pass through areas dense with greenery, encountering wildlife, including the famous monkeys at the Monkey Park. This close-up wildlife encounter is a crowd favorite, with guests describing it as lively and engaging.

Summit and Views
Reaching the top is truly rewarding. On clear days, you’ll be treated to vistas of Mt Fuji, often framed perfectly in the distance. The summit has viewing platforms that allow for stunning photo opportunities, making it a memorable highlight.

Savoring Authentic Japanese Cuisine

After working up an appetite, a local restaurant awaits at the mountain’s base for a ramenscape that locals swear by. Guests love the Hachioji Ramen, praised for its richness and depth of flavor. One reviewer described it as making the entire trip “more worth it,” emphasizing that the meal feels like a true taste of Japan’s culinary soul.

For those who prefer a lighter option or traditional soba noodles, the menu offers delicate, handcrafted choices. The food is generous and authentic, a perfect way to refuel without breaking the bank.

Wildlife Encounters and Scenic Walks

A key part of the experience is the Monkey Park, where energetic monkeys live in a natural enclosure. Visitors often mention the lively atmosphere and the opportunity to observe these intelligent creatures up close. Walking down from the summit, you’ll cross a scenic suspension bridge that offers a different perspective of the forested landscape—an ideal spot for photos and peaceful reflection.

The guide is attentive to guests’ preferences, with several reviews noting how flexible and accommodating Jordan was, allowing guests to choose how much walking they wanted to do and when to take breaks.

The Hot Springs: Relaxation with a Unique Touch

A major highlight of the tour is the visit to a tattoo-friendly hot spring—a rare find in Japan. The onsen is a scenic 35-minute drive away, passing through mountain towns and countryside, offering a glimpse of local life outside Tokyo’s city center. The hot springs boast multiple natural spring baths, each with different mineral compositions, giving visitors a variety of options for relaxation.

Guests have described the onsen as “sensational,” with the opportunity to unwind in natural surroundings. One reviewer noted that, although the onsen was nudity is common and comfortable once you’re in, it’s good to know in advance if you’re not used to Japan’s bathing customs. Towels are provided, and the hot spring staff are welcoming.

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Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This experience suits travelers who want to combine nature, cultural experiences, and relaxation into one day. It’s especially good for those who value guided expertise—Jordan’s knowledge and flexible approach earned him high praise, making the day feel personalized rather than rushed. The inclusion of a tattoo-friendly hot spring makes it accessible for everyone, removing a common barrier in Japan.

It’s also a good fit for adventure lovers, given the moderate hike, and foodies who want to try authentic ramen in a scenic setting. If you’re traveling solo, as one guest was, the relaxed and friendly guide ensures a comfortable, unpressured environment.

Practical Details and Tips

• Price: At $120 per person, the tour offers good value considering the included activities—cable car, museum, monkey park, ramen, and hot springs.
• Duration: The trip is flexible, usually lasting around 6-8 hours, depending on your pace and optional activities.
• Meeting Point: The guide meets guests at Hachioji Station, making it easy to find with the cheerful yellow tennis ball.
• What to bring: Comfortable shoes for walking/hiking, a change of clothes for the hot springs, and sun protection or rain gear depending on the weather.
• Reservation and Cancellation: Booking is flexible with a pay-later option, and cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Japan’s natural beauty and local culture—all accessible from Tokyo. With expert guides and a thoughtfully curated itinerary, it provides a perfect escape from city life, whether you’re after scenic views, wildlife encounters, or relaxing hot spring baths.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate a blend of adventure and comfort, as well as those wanting to enjoy Japan’s famed onsens without the usual restrictions on tattoos. The opportunity to see Mt Fuji, enjoy delicious ramen, and unwind in a natural hot spring makes this trip memorable and highly worthwhile.

For anyone seeking a meaningful, fun-filled day outside Tokyo’s busy streets, this tour hits the mark. It’s an authentic, value-packed adventure that balances sights, tastes, and relaxation—delivered by guides who genuinely care about making your experience special.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour involves a 3-4 hour hike to the summit, so it’s best suited for those with moderate mobility and good shoes. The cable car and chair lift options help reduce physical effort.

What does the hot spring experience include?
Guests visit a tattoo-friendly hot spring, which provides multiple mineral baths in a scenic setting. Towels are included, and the baths are natural and relaxing.

Can I see Mt Fuji from the tour?
Yes, on clear days, the summit offers breathtaking views of Mt Fuji, a highlight for many guests.

What kind of food will I eat during the tour?
A traditional Hachioji Ramen is included, known for its rich flavor. There are also soba noodles if you prefer a lighter option.

How do I meet the guide?
The guide, Jordan, will be waiting at Hachioji Station holding a yellow tennis ball—an easy way to spot him.

Is the hot spring accessible for tattooed visitors?
Absolutely. The hot spring is tattoo-friendly, welcoming guests who may have tattoos that would otherwise be a concern in traditional onsens.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Guests can choose between walking or taking the chair lift, and the guide adjusts the pace based on group preferences.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a change of clothes for the hot spring, sun protection, and perhaps a camera for the views.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, bookings can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind.

This tour blends adventure, cultural authenticity, and relaxation into one smooth day—perfect for those eager to explore Japan’s less-traveled, scenic side while enjoying comforts and expert guidance.

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