View the Beautiful Fall Foliage from Atop a Mountain
Mount Takao, about 40 minutes from Shinjuku Station, is the second largest city in Tokyo and a great option for viewing beautiful autumn leaves. The peak foliage viewing period typically falls between mid-November and early December at Mt. Takao, with brightly saturated leaves. The Mount Takao autumn leaves festival brings live performances, food stalls and artisan goods for guests to enjoy along the scenic view.
Booths by local craftsmen will sell traditional kokeshi wooden dolls. Enjoy a cup of nihonshu served in wooden cups. The events square in front of Kiyotaki Station will feature performances by students and local traditional performing artists from Hachioji City. Shows include Alphorn players, brass orchestra, jazz bands, singers, dance teams, hula and calligraphy performances.
For a full list of events square performances, check the festival website here.
The Mount Takao cable cars travel between Kiyotaki Station and Takaosan Station, offering passengers a magical ride as they ascend to the mountainside. Takaosan Yakuoin temple is another greatly recommended viewing location with vibrant red and yellow leaves against the Busshari Pagoda and torii gate.
At the summit of Mt. Takao, guests can enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. If the weather permits, this is a great photo spot to catch Mt. Fuji in the background as well. The Momiji-dai area is a designated maple tree viewing platform where you can relax on the benches while taking in the seasonal sights.
