Mount Kumotori, Otaki, Chichibu, Saitama 369-1901, Japan
What other travelers are saying about Mt. Kumotori
Standing at 2,017 meters, Mt. Kumotori is the tallest mountain in Tokyo Prefecture—and a 2-day, 1-night climb that's well worth the effort. We hiked on a Monday and had the trail mostly to ourselves (only five guests stayed at the lodge that night, including us).
In June, the insects are relentless—no amount of repellent will fully keep them away. A face net is your best defense, along with light-colored clothing. We started our hike at 10:30 AM and reached the lodge around 3:30 PM, including a 40-minute break to take shelter from the rain.
Just follow the trail signs and use Google Translate when needed. However some of the signages cannot be read but we were very lucky to bump into climbers coming down which were able to point us the direction (there is just 1 part of the trail midway which is confusing and a wrong turn will lead you back down the mountain on the other side.)
11-Feb-2025
#intothewild
At the Top of Tokyo: Mount Kumotori (2017.1m) 🥾🧗♀️🏔️
This is highest point of Tokyo and route easy but very long.
We started our hike from Mitsumine Shrine around 11AM and arrived at Kumotori sanso at 6PM. For hikers, we suggest to arrive at least before 4PM.
We stayed at Kumotori sanso.
Next day we started at 6AM and sun was already on horizon. It took 1hr to reach the peak of Mt Kumotori. It was windy and cold in peak so we only stayed couple of minutes there.
For about an hour we stayed in emergency shelter near peak. The shelter is well established with toilets too but no water. We enjoyed breakfast in shelter with beautiful view from there.
Around 8:30 we descended to Okutama.
Always wanted to do winter hike, and on this special occasion of my birthday we embark for this challenge. It was also the birthplace of one my favorite anime Kamado Tanjiro (Demon Slayer)🥷
It was tough and memorable days with my beautiful wife❤️
A very long trek to the top from Kamosawa bus stop. Easy to climb except for some steep sections near the top.
A very good experience that also included encounters with deer, monkey and a cat at the Mt. Nanatsu cabin.
The trek itself is easy but feels difficult due to the long and unending trail to the top. I covered 24 km. in a single day starting at 0758 in the morning and finished at 1845 in the evening.
I do not recommend a day trip to this mountain but if you want to make sure to reach the trailhead by 0600 in the morning(only possible by car/taxi), or take the 0534 bus from Okutama station that will drop you near the trailhead at 0608.
Took me 8.5 hours to get to the top and to get back.
If you are a slower hiker, it is better to take the first bus. Otherwise it will be too dark for you to come back....alive.
I have been there in the winter with my friend. It was a little bit tough in the snow. Be sure to carry aizen, enough food and water. It is necessary in the winter, bring them or you would regret.
We climbed from 8AM to 7PM to the lodge near the top, so we could see sunrise in the next morning. The scene is great as you can see. The lodge was reasonable and comfortable. Breakfast is simple but delicious.
Always hope to be there again since then!!!
Frequently Asked Questions
Mt. Kumotori is 2,017 meters high with 10-14 hours round trip hiking time. Trails include steep sections and significant elevation gain. Suitable for experienced hikers only.
The Kamosawa Trailhead route in Okutama takes 6-7 hours to the summit and provides access to mountain huts. Other routes start from Mitsumine Shrine (Saitama) or Yamanashi Prefecture.
Kumotori Sanso hut near the summit offers overnight stays and meals from April-November. Advance reservations required.
May through November is ideal. Summer (July-August) offers warmest conditions but attracts crowds. Autumn (October-November) provides clearer views and fall foliage. Winter requires snow and ice climbing experience with proper equipment.
No permit is required. However, climbers should submit a hiking plan (tozan todoke) at trailheads or online through the police website for safety purposes.
