
Mount Mitake
Rising 929 meters above sea level on the western edge of Tokyo, Mount Mitake is one of the capital’s most accessible escapes into nature. Part of Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park, the mountain has been a sacred site for centuries and is home to Musashi-Mitake Shrine, founded nearly 2,000 years ago. Visitors can reach the mountain via cable car and then follow scenic trails through cedar forests, mossy rock gardens, and rushing mountain streams. Hikers of all levels will find rewarding routes, from gentle walks to multi-hour treks that connect with Mount Odake and beyond. Along the way, waterfalls, ancient shrines, and even spots believed to hold mystical powers highlight the area’s deep spiritual roots. With traditional shukubō lodgings offering temple stays and hearty meals, Mount Mitake is more than a day hike—it’s a chance to experience Tokyo’s wilder, spiritual side just 90 minutes from the city center.