Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Mount Kumotori is 2,017.1 meters above sea level and is located in Okutama Town, Nishitama District, Tokyo. It is known as the highest peak in Tokyo. Part of the Okuchichibu Mountains (the mountains of Okutama and Chichibu), this naturally rich mountain range straddling the borders of Tokyo, Saitama Prefecture, and Yamanashi Prefecture has long been a place of surveying and worship. The name of the mountain is said to come from the fact that it is "high enough to clear the clouds" and is a reference to the sea of clouds that can be seen near the summit.
Its features include its relatively easy access from the city center, the panoramic view of the Kanto region, including Mt. Fuji, from the summit if the weather is good, forests of beech and birch trees, alpine plants, and beautiful seasonal scenery (fresh greenery, mountain azalea, autumn leaves, snowscapes).There are multiple hiking routes for beginners to intermediate hikers, and hikers can enjoy hiking to suit their needs, from day trips to two-day stays in mountain huts.
Highlights
- Summit (2,017.1m above sea level): The highest point in Tokyo. On a clear day, you can see Mount Fuji, the Chichibu mountains, and the Kanto Plain in the distance.
- Kumotori Sanso: A mountain hut near the summit. Many hikers stay here to see the sea of clouds and sunrise in the early morning.
- Ishione Ridge Traverse: A course that includes a series of scenic ridge walking routes, including Mt. Nanatsuishi. The exhilaration of walking along the ridge is what makes it so appealing.
- Beech and birch forest: Enjoy the changes in vegetation depending on the elevation, and the autumn foliage is particularly spectacular.
- Seasonal scenery: The scenery shows a variety of different faces, from the fresh greenery of spring, flowers in early summer, autumn leaves, and snowy scenery in winter.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest train station: Okutama Station on the JR Ome Line — easily accessible from the city center, this station is a good base for mountain climbing.
- Bus: Take the Nishitokyo Bus from Okutama Station to the Kamozawa Trailhead bus stop. This is the main trailhead to Mt. Kumotori (the journey time varies depending on the route, but it takes approximately 30-60 minutes).
- From the Chichibu side: There are also routes from Seibu Chichibu Station or from the Mitsumine direction, and the course entering the mountain from the Mitsumine Shrine side is longer.
- Private car: There is parking space for climbers around Kamozawa, but the number of spaces is limited, so it is recommended to use public transportation. During peak seasons, the parking lot fills up quickly.
- Transportation after descending the mountain: The last bus and train departs Okutama Station early, so please check the bus and train schedules in advance to match your descent time.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Kamozawa Route (a typical day trip): Approximately 7-10 hours round trip (approximately 4-5 hours ascent, 3-4 hours descent). The time will vary depending on your stamina and rest times.
- A traverse via Ishione and including Mt. Shichitsuishi: As a round trip in one day will be long, we recommend planning for two days and one night (staying at Kumotori Sanso).
- Beginner/Relaxed Plan: We recommend a two-day, one-night plan, where you stay the night at Kumotori Sanso and climb back to the summit the next morning. Even at this accelerated pace, you should be familiar with mountain walking.
Nearby spots
- Lake Okutama (Ogouchi Dam): Enjoy the lakeside scenery, driving spots, cycling, and more.
- Hatonosu Valley and Nippara Valley: Beautiful scenery of mountain streams and rocky areas, popular with hikers seeking coolness in the summer.
- Mitsumine Shrine (Chichibu side): A shrine that has attracted worshippers since ancient times. It is also close to the trailhead for Mt. Kumotori.
- Day-trip hot springs and bathing facilities in Okutama: There are several facilities where you can wash off the sweat after descending the mountain (please check opening hours in advance).
- Nearby hiking trails: In addition to Kamozawa, there are several other hiking routes and traverses, allowing you to enjoy different scenery depending on the trail you choose.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: As it is the highest peak in Tokyo, it gets very crowded on weekends, consecutive holidays, and during the autumn foliage season. Be aware of crowded buses, parking lots, and mountain huts, and consider leaving early or visiting on a weekday.
- Equipment and clothing: This mountain is over 2,000 meters above sea level. Be sure to bring warm clothing, rain gear, snacks, plenty of water, a map and compass (or GPS), and a headlamp. The weather can change suddenly, so be sure to pack plenty of cold weather gear.
- Winter climbing: Snow and ice will accumulate. Crampons, ice axes, and winter mountaineering experience are required. Do not enter the mountains carelessly, and do not enter unless you have the necessary equipment and skills.
- Submitting a mountain climbing notification: In case of an accident, please submit a mountain climbing notification (online/paper). Be sure to inform your family and accommodation of your mountain climbing plans.
- Mountain hut use: Kumotori Sanso is popular, so advance reservations may be required during peak seasons. Please check the usage rules (accommodation reservations, payment, whether bedding and meals are provided).
- Garbage, Toilets, and Manners: Always take your trash with you. Use mountain huts or designated toilets (there are often fees). To protect the natural environment, please observe basic etiquette such as not stepping on vegetation and not feeding small animals.
- Wild animals: There have been reports of sightings of bears and wild boars, so take precautions such as avoiding alone, making noise, and managing your food carefully.
- Mobile phone signals: Mobile phone signals can be unstable in some mountain areas. Please prepare spare batteries and a way to share your location in case of an emergency.
- Time management: Be aware of transportation schedules after descending the mountain. Options for returning home are limited around Okutama, and delays can mean long waits or needing to take a taxi.
Mount Kumotori is relatively close to central Tokyo and is an attractive mountain that can be enjoyed by beginners and intermediate climbers alike. The seasonal scenery and a night in a mountain hut are exceptional, but safety comes first, so please be sure to prepare well and follow the rules of nature and the local area.
