Things To Do
in Mitake

Mitake, Japan is a picturesque mountain village located in the western part of Tokyo, known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The area is famous for the sacred Mount Mitake, which is a significant Shinto site and features beautiful hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views, ancient shrines, and a tranquil atmosphere that offers a perfect escape from the bustling city.

The charming streets are lined with traditional shops and eateries, making it an ideal destination for both nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Mount Mitake
morning
:

Start your day early with a visit to the Mount Mitake cable car station, and take the scenic ride up to the mountain. Once at the top, hike to the Musashi Mitake Shrine, a beautiful Shinto shrine surrounded by lush forests.

afternoon
:

After exploring the shrine, enjoy lunch at one of the local eateries near the hiking trails. Spend the afternoon hiking the trails around the mountain, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.

evening
:

Return to the base and unwind at a local onsen (hot spring) to relax your muscles. Finish your day with dinner at a nearby restaurant serving local specialties.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the local Mitake village, where you can explore the quaint streets and visit traditional craft shops. Don't miss the chance to try some local snacks from street vendors.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of the area to learn more about the history and culture of Mitake. Visit the nearby rock formations and enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature.

evening
:

Head back to the village for dinner at a cozy izakaya. After dinner, enjoy a peaceful evening stroll along the river while listening to the sounds of nature.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Soba$8
🍵Cup of Coffee$4
🍱Bento Box$10
🛏️Hotel Night$80
🚉Train Ticket to Tokyo$7

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and hiking opportunities.
  • Rich cultural experiences and historical sites.
  • Tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
  • Some areas may be less accessible without a car.
  • Language barriers may exist for English speakers.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me
  • "美味しいです" - It’s delicious
  • "お手洗いはどこですか?" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Mitake

Visit one of these nice places.

Musashi Mitake Shrine

Capture the serene beauty of this ancient shrine nestled among the trees.

Rock Formations

Unique rock formations like the 'Kongozan' offer striking landscapes for photography.

Mount Mitake Viewpoints

Various viewpoints along the hiking trails provide stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Culinary Guide

Food in Mitake

Mitake offers a delightful culinary experience with its emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and traditional Japanese dishes.

Mitake Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mitake Soba

A local specialty made from buckwheat noodles, often served chilled or hot with various toppings.

Must-Try!

Yudofu

A simple yet delicious dish of boiled tofu, often served with dipping sauces.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mitake Street Market

A charming market where visitors can find local produce, snacks, and handmade crafts.

Yaki Imo Stalls

Street vendors selling roasted sweet potatoes, a popular snack in the colder months.

Climate Guide

Weather

Mitake experiences four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) is mild and sees beautiful cherry blossoms. Summer (June to August) can be warm and humid, ideal for outdoor activities. Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and vibrant fall colors. Winter (December to February) can be cold with occasional snowfall, making it a serene winter escape.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Nature

Always take your trash with you and respect the natural environment.

Quietness in Public Spaces

Keep noise levels down, especially in temples and nature areas.

Polite Greetings

A simple bow or saying 'Konnichiwa' (Hello) is appreciated when interacting with locals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Mitake is generally very safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Be cautious while hiking, especially during wet weather, and ensure you have appropriate gear. Emergency services are accessible, and English-speaking staff can be found in some key locations.

Tipping in Mitake

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can be seen as rude; excellent service is expected without additional gratuity.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, though many places accept credit cards; it's advisable to carry yen.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect cherry blossoms and mild weather, making it a perfect time for hiking and photography.

Summer

Warm temperatures attract more visitors, but early morning hikes offer cooler conditions.

Autumn

Experience breathtaking fall foliage, particularly around the hiking trails and temples.

Winter

Cold temperatures and possible snow create a serene winter wonderland, ideal for peaceful retreats.

Nightlife Guide

Mitake at Night

Mitake is known for its tranquil atmosphere rather than a bustling nightlife scene. Most activities wind down early, with a focus on relaxation at local onsens and intimate izakayas. Visitors can enjoy quiet evenings with local drinks or participate in cultural events if available.

Hiking in Mitake

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Takamizusan Trail

A moderate trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, ideal for a half-day hike.

Okunoin Trail

A more challenging trail leading to the summit of Mount Mitake, featuring ancient trees and breathtaking scenery.

Airports

How to reach Mitake by plane.

Haneda Airport

Located approximately 80 km from Mitake, Haneda is the closest major airport, serving both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Mitake is a walkable area, especially within the village and towards the hiking trails. Most attractions are within a short distance from each other, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some hiking trails can be steep and may require good footwear and physical fitness.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population mainly consists of Japanese locals, many of whom are involved in agriculture, tourism, or traditional crafts.

Tourists

Visitors come from both domestic and international locations, drawn by the natural beauty and spiritual heritage.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A beloved sport in Japan, with local teams often supported by the community.

Martial Arts

Traditional martial arts like Judo and Kendo are popular activities in the region.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Mitake is generally light, with most visitors relying on public transportation for access. The area is served by trains and buses that connect to larger cities. Be mindful during peak travel seasons when tourism increases.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Mitake.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian options, especially with tofu and vegetable dishes.

Allergy Awareness

It's advisable to communicate any food allergies, as some dishes may contain common allergens.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Japan is of high quality, and there are clinics and hospitals available in nearby towns. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. English-speaking medical staff may be limited, so having translation apps may be helpful in case of emergencies.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide