Introduction
Considered a sacred mountain, Mount Takao - or Takaosan - has been at the centre of mountain worship for more than 1,000 years.
A scant hour from central Tokyo, and forming the start of the Chichibu-Tama National Park, the greenery and views here are worth getting lost in. On a clear day, Mt Fuji, Tokyo and even Yokohama can be seen from many of the mountain trails, which are dotted with winged statues, some crow-beaked, others long-nosed, representing the spirits of the mountain.
Near the summit stands the attractive temple of Yakuoin - it takes about four hours to get to the top and back again, far less by cable car.
