Mount Takao, Hachioji, Japan by Mukesh Williams

Photo Essay
Mount Takao: Hachioji, Japan
by Mukesh Williams

It is surprising that over countless centuries Takaosan or Mount Takao in Hachioji has remained well preserved in its pristine simplicity. The place is heavily wooded with Japanese oaks, cedars, cypresses and katsura trees. It is also rich in wild life, with an exclusive monkey trail. Located about 15 minutes from Hachioji, the Takao Mountain rises to a height of 600 meters affording an excellent view of Tokyo city, Mount Fuji and other mountain chains such as Tanzawa, Chichibu and Nikko. It is possible to drive from Hachioji to Takao Mountain or take the JR Chuo line to Takao Station.

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The area has been one of the big centers of Shinto Buddhism for the last one thousand years. Here there are temples where mountain gods or tengu are worshipped to acquire good fortune round the year. It is possible to see statues of long nosed or crow-beaked tengu outside many temples such as the Yakuoin Temple at the summit or other smaller temples at the base. During the autumn season, especially towards the end of November/early December, many people go to see the autumn foliage or koyo and have lunch under the trees.

Stone Lantern, Takao Mountain

An old mountainside stone lantern against
The rich yellow and russet leaves of autumn maple:
Timeless beauty hiding on Mount Takao!

Here you may feel the stilling of history,
The moss-covered pretensions of powerful daimyos,
And the victory of stone and mortar in the end.

– Continued