Tokyo is famous for shopping, food, and neon cityscapes — but don’t you feel like reconnecting with nature?
If you have a full day—or even just half a day — just a short trip from the city, you can escape the hustle and bustle and stretch your legs in Tokyo’s lush mountains.
The Takao area is one of the easiest trail running destinations near central Tokyo.
In just 45–50 minutes from central Tokyo, you can leave the crowds behind and find yourself running along forested ridgelines and surprisingly quiet mountain paths.
In this guide, I’ll introduce several 10–20km trail running routes in the Takao area.
I’ll also share practical tips for international runners and important trail etiquette in Japan.
Where is Takao?
Takao is located in western Hachioji City, Tokyo.
The area centers around Mount Takao (599m) — a Michelin three-star tourist destination and one of the most visited mountains in the world, attracting around 3 million visitors each year.
Mount Takao is also known as a sacred mountain of Shugendo (mountain asceticism) and home to Takaosan Yakuoin, a historic Buddhist temple complex.
Near the summit, you’ll find tea houses, souvenir shops, cable cars, and even a small monkey park, creating a lively atmosphere year-round.
Thanks to its easy access — about 50 minutes from Shinjuku Station with no transfers — the area attracts everyone from school groups to serious hikers.
However, while the main summit of Mount Takao can be extremely crowded, the surrounding areas — especially Minami-Takao (South Takao) and Kita-Takao (North Takao) — are much quieter and far more suitable for trail running.
Logistics for International Visitors
・Access: JR Chuo Line or Keio Line
・IC Card: Suica or PASMO recommended
・Few convenience stores once on course — buy supplies beforehand
・Limited water sources in the mountains (though some huts near the main summit sell drinks).
・Post-Run: Enjoy a hot spring bath! “Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu” is located right at Takaosanguchi Station.
・No special permit required for day runs
・Best seasons: Spring, Autumn, and Winter (avoid mid-summer heat)
⚠ Summers are very hot and humid. Plan carefully and start early.
⚠ Heavy snow is rare, but after significant snowfall in January or February, icy sections can remain for days or weeks. Chain spikes are essential during these times.
Recommended Routes (10–20km)
1. Kusato Ridge Out-and-Back (Kusato-one）
Highlight: Highly recommended for beginners! A quiet and comfortable ridge path with few crowds.
Distance: 10.1km
Elevation Gain: 662m
Start / Finish: Takao Station
Moderate Trail Running Pace with breaks: 2.5 – 3.5 hours
Level: Beginner
2. Myo-o Pass Loop
Highlight: Gentle climbing but technical descents — short yet satisfying.
Distance: 10.2km
Elevation Gain: 645m
Start / Finish: Sagamiko Station
Moderate Trail Running Pace with breaks: 3– 3.5 hours
Level: Beginner–Intermediate
3. Minami-Takao Loop (South Takao Loop)
Highlight: Packed with variety! A refreshing and highly runnable course that never gets boring.
Distance: 18.2km
Elevation Gain: 930m
Start / Finish: Takao Station
Moderate Trail Running Pace with breaks: 5 – 6 hours
Level: Beginner–Intermediate
4. Sagamiko – Kobotoke Shiroyama – Takao
Highlight: Many “Maki-michi” (flat bypass trails) make for comfortable running. Stop for tea at the mountain huts along the way!
Distance: 17.3km
Elevation Gain: 1,139m
Start: Sagamiko Station
Finish: Takao Station
Moderate Trail Running Pace with breaks: 5.5 to 6.5 hours
Level: Beginner–Intermediate
Quick Guide
Beginner → Kusatoyama (10 km)
Next step → Myo-o Pass (10 km, technical)
Longer run →Minami-Takao Loop & Kobotoke Shiroyama
Trail Running Etiquette in Japan
Trail running culture in Japan values harmony and safety.
Please keep in mind:
1.Yield to Hikers: Always slow down or walk when passing. Hikers have the right of way.
2.Uphill Priority: Those going up have the right of way. If descending, step aside on the mountain side (not the cliff side).
3.Say Hello: A friendly “Konnichiwa” (Hello) goes a long way. When passing, saying “Excuse me” or “Konnichiwa” is standard.
4.No Trace: Carry all your trash back to the city.
5.Stay on the Path: Protect the vegetation. Avoid running on wooden boardwalks in marshlands to prevent damage and slipping.
6.Plan Your Escape: Always check the train schedule and identify “escape routes” to the nearest station in case of injury or weather changes.
Respecting these rules helps maintain a positive relationship between runners and hikers.
🏃♂️ Personalized Trail Planning
Looking for a custom itinerary? I also offer personalized trail planning tailored to your fitness level and schedule. Feel free to contact me for a bespoke running plan!
👉[Check out my Custom Itineraries here]
