ITINERARY
DAY 3:
Nature calls MORNIN G
Tokyo may be known for its skyscrapers, but the city is also remarkably green, with incredible natural areas just a short train ride away in the Mount Takao area. From Shinjuku Station, head west on the Keio Line Limited Express to Takaosanguchi Station. Less than an hour after setting off you’re surrounded by forest and waterfalls. Hike to the summit of Mt Takao, where you’re rewarded with stellar views as well as cold beverages at Takao Beer Mount (June through October) – its claim to fame is that it’s the highest beer garden in Tokyo at 500 metres above sea level.
A FT ERNOON
After a sneaky drink and treats from the Japanese buffet, resume your explorations at mountaintop Takaosan Yakuo Temple, a Buddhist shrine dating back to 744 AD. There’s a restaurant serving vegetarian cuisine, if you decided not to indulge at Beer Mount. End your day soaking in healing springs at Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu, with its multiple hot and cold pools as well as sauna and spa – you deserve a massage, right? If dinner beckons, the on-site restaurant serves specialties like tororo soba (buckwheat noodles topped with grated mountain yam). 74 } v a c a t i o n s t r a v e l . c o m
DID YOU KNOW There are some strict hygiene and etiquette rules around bathing in onsen. Many are gender-segregated, and most do not allow you to soak if you have tattoos. Always check ahead before you visit.
T H I S PAG E , B O T H I M AG E S:
Exploring Takaosan Yakuo Shrine © Marcus Winkler/Unsplash R IG H T: Green therapy at Mount Takao © Picturecells/Shutterstock
