Best Day-Hiking Spots Near Tokyo for Autumn Foliage

 

Any outdoor lovers here? Japan is fast approaching autumn, and the autumn foliage is a must-see spectacle you won't want to miss. While hitting all those "Instagrammable" autumn leaves spots might top your itinerary list, they're often packed with crowds. If you're a true nature lover, why not consider a day hike to soak in the foliage instead? 😉

Here are some top recommendations from the Tabigo Japan team for hiking spots to enjoy autumn foliage.

Mount Takao

Mount Takao is the most accessible mountain from Tokyo. It's just 1.5 hours from central Tokyo, and with an altitude of 599m, it's incredibly beginner-friendly. A cable car is available to whisk you to the peak if you'd prefer a shortcut.

Downside: As the most accessible and easiest hike, expect it to be very crowded during the autumn season.

Mount Mitake

Mount Mitake is another renowned mountain in Tokyo, reaching an altitude of 831m. It takes about 1-2 hours to hike to the peak from the base, but like Mount Takao, a cable car is on hand for convenience. This spot is ideal if you want a slightly more challenging adventure, as you can extend your route to Mount Otake or Mount Nokogiri from the summit.

Mount Tsukuba

Mount Tsukuba, located in Ibaraki, is about 1.5 hours from central Tokyo. It's famous for its striking twin peaks (Mt. Nantai and Mt. Nyotai), standing at 877m tall. It's a popular autumn destination, perfect for a rewarding day trip from Tokyo. A cable car is available too.

Mount Oyama

Mount Oyama, in Kanagawa, is roughly 2 hours from central Tokyo. Less popular than the others, it means fewer crowds—yet you'll still be treated to the same breathtaking autumn foliage. A cable car is available, and it's an excellent choice for pairing with a relaxing visit to the nearby onsen town of Hakone.

Planning a trip to Japan this autumn but still need to nail down your itinerary? Contact us today for itinerary planning and consultation! Let us handle the details so you can just sit back and relax. 😎

Need more inspiration? Check out our Mt. Fuji Tour or Custom Tour here!