DIFFICULY
★★★☆☆
2 Days
2–10 people
From
From ¥198,000 (tax included)
修験道, 古道, 御師集落, 本格トレッキング, 正式参拝, 鎖場
OVERVIEW
“Next weekend, you’ll embark on a journey to the Edo period”—
Leaving the hustle and bustle of the city center and its skyscrapers behind, the train heads west.
As the scenery outside the window shifts from concrete to lush greenery, you’ll feel the burdens of daily life gradually slip away.
Crossing the clear waters of the Tama River and climbing the steep slope in one go via cable car, you’ll arrive at a “village in the sky” floating at an elevation of 900 meters. This is a world apart, unmarked on any map, where “Oinushama” has watched over the land since ancient times and where Oshi priests have offered their prayers.
The moment you pass through the torii gate, the atmosphere changes completely.
On the first day, you’ll purify your spirit in the “Rock Garden,” where moss-covered rocks and clear streams intertwine, and in the evening, you’ll spend a special night embraced by centuries of history and silence at the shukubo (monk’s lodging) of an Oshi, a Shinto priest.
Then, on the second day, the journey shifts from “healing” to “adventure.”
Your destination is the summit of Mt. Ōdake, one of Japan’s 200 Famous Mountains. It is a Shugendō pilgrimage where you grip chains and scramble up rock faces. The moment you overcome the difficult terrain with your own hands and feet, a magnificent view of Mt. Fuji spreads before you, and you’ll feel reborn, filled with a sense of accomplishment.
From the modern world to the age of the gods, from the plains to the heavens. This is not merely a mountain climb. It is the beginning of a journey to deeply purify your mind and body and rediscover your true self.
A two-day, one-night trip staying at a shukubo (temple lodging) run by an Oshi (Shinto priest) and tackling Mt. Ōdake, one of Japan’s 200 Famous Mountains.
On the first day, find solace in the clear streams of the moss-covered “Rock Garden,” and in the evening, converse with the Oshi—a Shinto priest—to immerse yourself deeply in the history of mountain worship.
On the second day, embark on a challenging trek that takes you over chain-assisted sections and rocky terrain.
After navigating this thrilling route, the moment you gaze upon Mount Fuji from the summit is sure to be deeply moving. A cultural experience of tranquility and an adventure challenging the rock face.
We offer you a special weekend to deeply purify your mind and body and gain new vitality.
HIGHLIGHTS
Stay at the guest quarters of an “Oshi” (a Shinto priest). Spend a special evening conversing with the head of the household in a historic setting and immersing yourself in the culture of mountain worship.
You’ll stay at guest quarters located in an “Oshi settlement” that has existed since the Edo period. An Oshi is a **Shinto priest** who cares for pilgrims and acts as an intermediary between them and the gods. The greatest appeal of this tour is the **opportunity to interact with the Oshi**—an experience you won’t find during a typical stay. Over lunch and during evening conversations, you’ll have the opportunity to hear firsthand about the history and rituals of Mount Mitake—knowledge not widely known to the general public. While the setting is dignified, the friendly dialogue with the head of the household will provide a precious moment to experience Japan’s spiritual culture firsthand.
Crossing chain-assisted sections and rocky terrain to reach Mt. Ōtake, one of Japan’s 200 Famous Mountains. A challenging trek offering breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji and a sense of accomplishment.
On the second day, we’ll attempt to summit Mt. Ōtake (1,266 m), a renowned peak in Okutama. Just before the summit, you’ll encounter rocky sections and chain-assisted sections where you’ll need to use your hands to climb, all while taking in a vast panoramic view of Mount Fuji and the Tanzawa Mountains. With the support of a guide, even beginners can safely experience the sense of accomplishment that comes with a successful mountain climb.
A soothing space of moss-covered rock formations and clear streams. A forest retreat to purify body and mind (detox) while strolling through the “Rock Garden”
On the afternoon of Day 1, we’ll explore the “Rock Garden,” a beautiful landscape featuring boulders of all sizes and a clear stream. This healing route lets you soak in the sound of the stream flowing between moss-covered rocks and bathe your entire body in the negative ions emanating from **“Ayahiro Falls”**. Before embarking on a full-fledged hike, enjoy this “purifying hike” to reset your daily fatigue with the power of the forest and cleanse your mind and body.
ITINERARY
■Day 1: The History of the Oshi and the Moss-Covered Rock Garden (Healing and Learning)
10:00 AM: Meet at JR Mitake Station
After check-in, we will travel by the organizer’s car to Takimoto Station, the cable car terminal.
10:30 AM: Cable Car Ride
Enjoy a 6-minute aerial ride from Takimoto Station to Mt. Mitake Station.
11:00 AM: Visit to Musashi-Mitake Shrine
Climb the 330-step staircase to the shrine in the sky. Visiting the shrine before heading to the temple lodging helps to prepare your mind.
12:00 PM: Shukubo Lunch and Talk by an Oshi Priest
We’ll have lunch at a shukubo (temple lodging) in the Oshi settlement. We’ll hear a special talk from the head of the household, an active Oshi priest, about the history of Mt. Mitake, Shinto rituals, and the role of the shukubo.
1:30 PM: Stroll through the Rock Garden
We’ll head to a beautiful valley featuring moss-covered rocks and a clear stream. We’ll visit Tengu Rock and Ayahiro Falls for a healing hike where we can soak up negative ions.
4:00 PM: Check-in at the Temple Lodging
We’ll wash away the day’s sweat in the bath and enjoy some relaxing time.
6:00 PM: Dinner
We’ll enjoy a meal made with plenty of local ingredients to wrap up the first day.
■Day 2: Climbing Mt. Ōdake and Spectacular Views (Challenge and Achievement)
07:00 Morning Shrine Visit (Optional)
Start your day refreshed by participating in the shrine’s morning ritual, the “Hikū-sai,” or by visiting the shrine on your own.
07:30 Breakfast (Packed Lunch)
Pick up your packed lunch at the temple lodging. Recharge your energy and get ready for the day.
08:15 Departure from the Temple Lodging
Tie your hiking boots tight and set off toward Mt. Otake.
09:30 Passing the Chain Ladder and Rock Climbing Sections
Pass through the chain ladder section just before the Mt. Otake Lodge. This is an adventurous stretch where you’ll need to use your hands and climb carefully.
10:00 Arrival at Mt. Otake Summit (1,266m)
This is the highlight of the climb. If the weather is clear, a sweeping panoramic view of Mount Fuji and the Tanzawa Mountains awaits. We’ll take commemorative photos and have a short break at the summit.
10:30 AM: Start of Descent
We’ll head back down the same route, taking care to stay safe.
12:00 PM: Lunch at Nagaodaira Observation Deck
We’ll return to the scenic plaza and enjoy lunch with the boxed meals we brought.
1:00 PM Souvenir shopping (Monzen Shopping Street)
We’ll enjoy browsing for local souvenirs and taking a break in the shopping street along the approach to the shrine.
2:00 PM Cable car ride
We’ll take the cable car down from Mitake-san Station to Takimoto Station.
2:20 PM Transfer to JR Mitake Station
We’ll head to the station by the organizer’s car or public bus.
2:30 PM Dismissal (JR Mitake Station)
The tour concludes at the station. By finishing early in the afternoon, you’ll have ample time to rest after returning home.
■ Highlights of This Course
・A Deep Understanding of History and Nature
By hearing directly from an active Oshi (shaman), you’ll be able to walk the next day’s trail not just as a path, but as a “Path of Faith,” appreciating its spiritual significance.
・A Challenging Trek with a Sense of Accomplishment
The challenge of climbing Mt. Ōdake, which includes sections with chains and rocky terrain, is ideal for beginners and those looking to take their hiking to the next level. The view of Mt. Fuji from the summit provides an exceptional sense of accomplishment.
・A Relaxed Schedule
By setting the meeting time for 10:00 AM and the end time for 2:30 PM, we reduce the burden of travel and create a schedule that allows you to make the most of your time on the mountain.
DETAILS
1. Clothing (Seasonal Recommendations)
Year-round, the basic principle is “layering,” which allows for easy temperature regulation.
Summer (June–September): Please wear clothing made of moisture-wicking, quick-drying materials (such as polyester). Since you will sweat profusely while hiking, be sure to bring a change of clothes.
Winter (December–March): As temperatures drop significantly, you will need sufficient cold-weather gear, such as thick fleece, down jackets, and highly insulating base layers. Accessories like knit hats and neck warmers are also recommended.
Footwear (Important): We recommend comfortable, well-worn athletic shoes.
2. Packing List
Backpack: One that leaves both hands free. Drinks: Approximately 500ml–1000ml (please bring more during the summer). Rain Gear: Separate-piece rainwear (mandatory as the hike proceeds even in light rain; it also serves as a layer for warmth). Cash: Please be sure to bring cash, as payments for the cable car, drinks at the temple lodging, and shopping in the town near the temple entrance are often cash-only. Other Items: Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a portable charger.
3. Policy for Rainy Weather: As a general rule, the hike proceeds even in light rain. Mt. Mitake shrouded in rain offers a truly mystical and beautiful landscape.
Cancellation Decision: The event will be canceled if a typhoon or weather warning is issued, or if severe weather is expected that makes ensuring safety difficult.
Notification: As a general rule, we will contact you via your registered email address 48 hours before the event (or by the evening of the previous day in case of sudden changes).
4. Other Important Notes Physical Strain: The path to the shrine’s main hall includes a steep slope and 330 stone steps. Allergy Accommodations: If you have dietary restrictions (vegetarian, allergies, etc.) for the shukubo lunch, please be sure to consult us at least 30 days prior to your reservation. Etiquette: The main hall is a sacred place. Please follow the instructions of the shrine priests and worship in silence.
Meeting Place & Contact Information Meeting Place:
【For Those Arriving by Train】 JR Ome Line, Mitake Station (meet at 09:50). A guide will drive you to Takimoto Station.
[For those arriving by car] Cable Car Takimoto Station boarding area (meet at 10:10). Please use the parking lot adjacent to the station (cash only).
Organizer & Inquiries:
Tokyo Yamagawa DMC Co., Ltd. Email: info@fwness.com
*Emergency contact information (direct line to the guide) will be provided in the detailed email sent after your reservation is confirmed.
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