Just an hour by train from the heart of Tokyo, you’ll arrive in Hachioji City, often fondly referred to as Tokyo’s “back garden.” Its rich natural scenery makes it hard to believe you’re still in Tokyo, while historic castle ruins and bustling, modern shopping streets are just a few of the diverse attractions that draw visitors from both Japan and overseas.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to the popular tourist spots you absolutely must visit when in Hachioji, along with must-try restaurants, shopping facilities, and other essential travel information. We hope you have a wonderfully fulfilling and enjoyable in-depth independent trip exploring this side of Tokyo!
Table of Contents
- What Kind of Place is Hachioji?
- 10 Must-Visit Attractions in Hachioji
- 4 Must-Try Restaurants in Hachioji
- 5 Must-Visit Shopping Spots in Hachioji
- 3 Recommended Accommodations in Hachioji
- Common Questions about Hachioji Tourism
- Conclusion
What Kind of Place is Hachioji?
Known as “Tokyo’s Back Garden,” Hachioji City is located in the southwestern part of Tokyo. It is the most populous area outside of Tokyo’s 23 special wards (like Shinjuku and Shibuya) and boasts the second-largest area among all municipalities in Tokyo.
The area around the station is Hachioji’s bustling downtown, lined with large commercial facilities and various restaurants. Venture a little further from the station, and you’ll discover areas so rich in natural landscapes that it’s hard to believe you’re still in Tokyo.
Among these, Mount Takao, a proud tourist spot of Hachioji City, is the most climbed mountain in the world and is one of the cultural assets that make up the Japan Heritage site “Reiki Manzan Mount Takao - A Tale of Mulberry Metropolis Woven by People’s Prayers.”
Hachioji has a long history, flourishing as a castle town with many castles built from the Heian period (794) to the Warring States period (1467–1615). By the Edo period (1603-1868), it further developed as a post town (a town at a key road junction).
As the region continued to develop, geisha culture also blossomed, with over 200 geishas gathered here during its peak.
Today, this geisha culture is still preserved. You can catch glimpses of geishas at various festivals and events in Hachioji, and even experience “zashiki-asobi” (banquets with geisha entertainment) at traditional Japanese restaurants (ryotei).
When it comes to food, unique localグルメ (gourmet delights) like “Hachioji Ramen” and “Hachioji Neapolitan Spaghetti” are part of its charm.
Hachioji Ramen, with its soy sauce base, is characterized by a generous topping of chopped onions. Hachioji Neapolitan Spaghetti, said to have been born out of respect for Hachioji Ramen, also features plenty of chopped onions on top of the noodles. It’s definitely recommended to try these when you visit Hachioji.
What’s the Best Season to Visit Hachioji?
Autumn is the best time to visit Hachioji.
The trees on Mount Takao, from the foot to the summit, are dyed in brilliant hues of red, yellow, and green, offering breathtaking autumn scenery as you climb.
The avenue of ginkgo trees along Koshu Kaido street, from Hachioji Station to Mount Takao, is also stunning.
The best time to see autumn leaves in Hachioji is usually from mid-November to early December. As the area gets crowded during the autumn foliage season, it’s recommended to visit Mount Takao early in the morning and then explore the areas around Mount Takao and other tourist spots in Hachioji in the afternoon.
What to Wear in Hachioji Each Season:
Spring (March - May): Light jacket, thin sweater Summer (June - August): Light clothing, short-sleeved tops Autumn (September - November): Light jacket, coat Winter (December - February): Coat, wool attire, thick sweater, jacket How to Get to Hachioji?
The gateways to Hachioji City are “JR Hachioji” Station or “Keio-Hachioji” Station. JR Hachioji Station is served by the Chuo Line, Yokohama Line, and Hachiko Line, making it easy to access Yokohama via the Yokohama Line as well. The access methods and required times from major stations in Tokyo to Hachioji are as follows:
From Tokyo Station: Take the Chuo Line, approximately 1 hour. From Shinjuku Station: Take the Chuo Line, approximately 40 minutes. From Ueno Station: Transfer from the Yamanote Line to the Chuo Line, approximately 1 hour. From Shinagawa Station: Transfer from the Yamanote Line to the Chuo Line, approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. From Shibuya Station: Transfer from the Yamanote Line to the Chuo Line, approximately 50 minutes.
Main Means of Transportation for Hachioji Sightseeing
Trains and buses are the primary modes of transport for sightseeing in Hachioji. Major tourist attractions and the city center are easily accessible by train and bus.
For some attractions where there are no nearby train or bus stops, please use a taxi.
10 Must-Visit Attractions in Hachioji
Hachioji City offers not only spots where you can enjoy nature, like Mount Takao, but also attractions where you can feel the charm of history, such as ancient castle ruins and shrines and temples.
It’s recommended to visit the spots introduced below to encounter unexpected Tokyo scenery and experiences, adding a touch of surprise and romance to your Tokyo journey.
1. Mount Takao (高尾山)
Located in Hachioji City, Tokyo, Mount Takao stands at an altitude of 599 meters. It’s an easily accessible and climbable mountain, popular as a tourist spot where both adults and children can comfortably enjoy hiking. With approximately 3 million visitors annually, it’s renowned as the most climbed mountain in the world.
A Michelin 3-star tourist destination, highly recommended for beginner hikers.
2. Takao Trick Art Museum
The Takao Trick Art Museum, located at the foot of Mount Takao, is a popular spot many hikers visit on their way down. The trick art exhibits are not just for viewing; you can become part of the artwork’s world.
In the museum’s space, spanning two floors above ground and two below, there are numerous artworks created using various illusions like perspective and human preconceptions. You can take many surreal photos here, and photography is allowed for all works.
Step into the world of paintings and take photos! A collection of surprising and fun trick art.
3. Hachioji Castle Ruins
These are the ruins of Hachioji Castle, built when the Odawara Hojo clan established their base in Odawara. It’s said that Hachioji Castle was a branch castle built by Hojo Ujiteru between Tensho 10 (1582) and Tensho 15 (1587) to strengthen the defenses of his main castle.
Today, along the foothills, you can find the ruins of the Goten (lord’s residence), restored stone walls, a koguchi (main gate), and on the mountaintop, the Honmaru (main bailey) ruins and Hachioji Shrine. It takes about 1 hour one way to walk to the mountaintop.
Named after the area of Hachioji, it’s one of Japan’s Top 100 Castles.
4. Mount Takao Yakuo-in Temple
Founded in Tenpyo 16 (744) by the high priest Gyoki Bosatsu under the order of Emperor Shomu. Located on the mountainside of Mount Takao, its official name is “Takao-san Yakuo-in Yuki-ji.”
Since ancient times, Mount Takao has been known as a “mountain of Shugendo,” and many yamabushi (Shugendo practitioners who train by walking in the mountains) have trained here. Even today, ascetic training experiences suitable for the general public are held, such as the daily Goma ritual (fire ceremony) and waterfall training on specific dates.
A major temple of the Shingon sect with over 1200 years of history, a very popular spiritual power spot.
5. Yuyake Koyake Fureai no Sato (Village of the Evening Glow)
Yuyake Koyake Fureai no Sato (Village of the Evening Glow and Little Tenderness) is a popular spot for outdoor activities in Hachioji, Tokyo. The facility is named after the famous Japanese children’s song “Yuyake Koyake,” as it’s located in the birthplace of the song’s writer.
In this village surrounded by nature, you can enjoy the changing scenery of the four seasons and experience seasonal activities. See colorful flowers in spring, play by the river or have a barbecue in summer, enjoy autumn foliage, and admire beautiful snowscapes in winter.
Various events that both adults and children can enjoy are held each season, such as rice planting, firefly viewing, and sweet potato roasting festivals.
An experiential facility where you can participate in various activities in nature.
6. Takao Baigo (Takao Plum Village)
Takao Baigo consists of eight plum groves along a walking path starting from Kamikunugida Bridge on the old Koshu Kaido: Yuhodo Plum Grove, Sekisho Plum Grove, Tenjin Plum Grove, Arai Plum Grove, Yunohana Plum Grove, Surisashi Plum Grove, Kinoshitasawa Plum Grove, and Kobotoke Plum Grove. Walking the entire course one way takes about 1.5 hours.
Approximately 10,000 plum trees bloom with beautiful red and white flowers from mid-February to mid-March each year.
About 10,000 red and white plum blossoms exude a delicate fragrance.
7. Takiyama Park
Takiyama Park in Hachioji City, Tokyo, is a park named after its location on the former site of “Takiyama Castle.” Takiyama Castle was once the residence of the Hojo clan, active during Japan’s Warring States period. It has now been designated as a national historic site by the Japanese government. There is a hiking trail around the old castle site where you can enjoy a walk while appreciating the rich natural scenery and the historical atmosphere of the old castle.
A beautiful park built on the ruins of an old castle, boasting over 2,000 cherry blossom trees.
8. Musashi Imperial Graveyard
This is an imperial cemetery nestled in the lush greenery of Hachioji City.
The grounds contain the tombs of Emperor Taisho and his wife Empress Teimei, and Emperor Showa and his wife Empress Kojun – a total of four mausoleums. The “Tama no Misasagi,” where the 123rd Emperor Taisho rests, is an “upper-round, lower-square” tomb composed of three upper tiers and three lower tiers.
The approximately 400-meter approach from the main gate to the mausoleums is lined on both sides with Kitayama cedar trees brought from Kyoto, creating an even more solemn atmosphere. The vast grounds are enveloped in a tranquil air, making it one of Tokyo’s foremost spiritual power spots.
One of Tokyo’s leading spiritual power spots, exuding a solemn atmosphere.
9. Isonuma Milk Farm (磯沼牧場)
Opened in 1952, this farm operates with a philosophy of animal welfare, showcasing the characteristics of the dairy industry. On the spacious farm, rare breeds of cattle in Japan such as Holstein, Jersey, and Brown Swiss are raised. You can pet the cows over the fence at any time and also experience feeding them. Besides cows, you can interact with sheep.
Milk-squeezing experiences are held on Sundays, and you can also opt for a butter-making experience. Additionally, the attached shop sells yogurt, pudding, and cup ice cream made from freshly squeezed Jersey milk.
A constantly evolving tourist farm, popular for its milk-squeezing experience on Sundays.
10. Konica Minolta Science Dome (Hachioji Children’s Science Museum) (コニカミノルタサイエンスドーム（八王子市こども科学館）)
A science museum offering various hands-on exhibits like experimental devices and simulation spaces where you can learn through play. The museum is divided into three experience zones: “Watch,” “Touch,” and “Create,” with a wide range of exhibits suitable for everyone from preschoolers to adults.
The highlight of the museum is the planetarium, which projects beautiful starry skies and realistic images onto a dome screen. It offers content suitable for children, and programs where commentators provide live, detailed explanations of constellations are also popular with adults. Furthermore, science studios host workshops, experiment shows, and biology lectures.
4 Must-Try Restaurants in Hachioji
Hachioji City boasts many distinctive local famous foods like Hachioji Ramen, and it’s lined with a wide variety of restaurants.
Next, we’ll recommend 4 restaurants in Hachioji City that are worth a visit.
1. UKAI Toriyama (UKAI鳥山)
UKAI Toriyama is a charcoal-grill restaurant nestled at the foot of Mount Takao, surrounded by clear streams and lush greenery. Within its vast 6,000-tsubo (approx. 19,800 sqm) grounds, you’ll find Gassho-zukuri style buildings relocated from Gokayama in Etchu, and a Japanese garden with Mount Takao as its backdrop, offering a rich variety of scenery.
Here, you can savor charcoal-grilled chicken raised with meticulous care and various dishes made with carefully selected ingredients. Chicken raised in abundant nature, select Wagyu beef, and clear stream river fish are carefully grilled over charcoal, resulting in rich and delicious flavors.
A charcoal-grill restaurant standing in the clear streams and lush greenery of Okutakao.
2. Takaosan Meishu Iroriyaki Gonsuke (高尾山名主 圍爐裏燒 Gonsuke)
Located in a small village in Okutakao, this is a standalone restaurant surrounded by tranquil nature. In a traditional space equipped with a classic irori (sunken hearth), you can enjoy robata-yaki (fireside grilling) of mountain and sea ingredients charcoal-grilled, as well as local dishes like grilled meat and fish.
The restaurant’s standard course, “Omakase” (chef’s choice), features a rich variety of ingredients including meat and seafood. You’ll be delighted by diverse delicious items such as beef fillet, ayu (sweetfish), shiitake mushrooms, and seasonal vegetables.
Enjoy the bounty of nature’s mountains and seas in a traditional space with an irori hearth.
3. Binbin-tei Main Store (Binbin亭 本店)
“Hachioji Ramen,” a local delicacy born in Hachioji City, Tokyo, during the Showa 30s (1955-1964), is a local ramen characterized by its soy sauce-based broth topped with chopped onions. “Binbin-tei” is a representative shop of Hachioji Ramen.
Their signature ramen features a deliciously refreshing soup made from a broth simmered with vegetables, fruits, pork bones, and seafood, seasoned with a soy sauce base – the classic flavor of Hachioji Ramen. For those who want to enjoy a hearty serving of onions, you can order the “Yakumi Ramen” with extra onions.
A long-established ramen shop serving the local specialty “Hachioji Ramen” for over 30 years.
4. Takao Sumire-an (高尾Sumire庵)
A 3-minute walk from Keio Line’s “Takaosanguchi Station,” this restaurant is famous for its delicious inari sushi and somen noodles.
The shop is named Sumire-an (Violet Hermitage) because Mount Takao is a mountain of violets, and the color violet is its main theme.
The restaurant’s signature dish is undoubtedly its inari sushi, available in two flavors: “Tengu Inari,” which includes soybeans, and “Sumire Inari,” mixed with mountain vegetables.
Besides sushi, they offer other items like “Sumire Soda,” a special soda with the color and refreshing sweetness of violets, and “Soto-yaki,” a grilled mochi with filling, perfect for a rest after hiking.
Relax and dine by the window counter, enjoying the view after your hike.
5 Must-Visit Shopping Spots in Hachioji
In the bustling downtown area in front of Hachioji Station, you can purchase various goods such as fashion items and miscellaneous雑貨 (zakka - general goods).
However, if you have ample time, it’s also highly recommended to buy vegetables grown in Hachioji City and unique local souvenirs during your trip.
Next, we’ll introduce 5 great places where you can enjoy shopping.
1. KO52 Takao
This complex commercial facility, a renovation of the “Former Keio Takao Building ANNEX,” opened in spring 2024 under the concept of “a town where individual businesses and the region interact.” It’s named “KO52” after the station number of Keio Takao Line’s “Takao” Station.
The facility houses a directly managed store of a brand that produces trail running wear based in Takao, as well as several unique individual shops. You can find a wide variety and selection of goods. It adds color to the Takao area, which is rich in nature like Mount Takao.
A new type of commercial facility bringing together unique individual shops; try limited-edition beers at “Takao BEER” in the center of the facility.
2. Michi-no-Eki Hachioji Takiyama (Roadside Station Hachioji Takiyama )
Tokyo’s only roadside station, selling products such as vegetables grown in Hachioji. It houses a direct sales shop, a specialty products sales corner, restaurants, and cafes, and is used not only by tourists but also by many local residents.
The agricultural products direct sales shop “Farm Takiyama” sells local agricultural and livestock products and is popular for allowing people to enjoy locally produced and consumed goods even within Tokyo.
A collection of Hachioji’s famous products, Tokyo’s only roadside station.
3. Mitsui Outlet Park Tama Minami Osawa (三井OUTLET PARK)
An outlet shopping mall located in Hachioji City, Tokyo, with excellent access by car or train. It’s about a 35-minute train ride from “Shinjuku” Station and a 2-minute walk from the nearest station, “Minami-Osawa” Station, making it easy and convenient. The premises host about 120 well-known domestic and international brands, offering a wide variety of stores including apparel brands, as well as sports, pet, and gardening lifestyle shops.
An outlet mall easily accessible from “Shinjuku” Station in about 35 minutes by train; great for shopping and conveniently located.
4. 桑都 Terrace (Soto Terrace)
A complex facility with striking black walls and a Japanese atmosphere. It consists of an entertainment hall that presents traditional culture and performing arts with a long history, restaurants aiming to become new and established favorites, and a lively plaza as spacious as a courtyard.
The plaza is filled with a Japanese ambiance where you can take a break. Traditional performing arts are also held once a month.
Why not thoroughly experience Hachioji’s traditional culture in a space rich with Japanese atmosphere?
A Japanese-style space where you can experience Hachioji’s traditional culture and performing arts.
5. Takao-san SUMIKA Souvenir Shop (高尾山 SUMIKA土產店)
Mount Takao in Hachioji City, Tokyo, is an immensely popular hiking destination. Located within the “Takaosan SUMIKA” complex next to the “Takaosan” cable car station on the mountainside of Mount Takao, this souvenir shop is a must-visit spot when you come to Mount Takao.
The souvenir shop is centrally located on the 1st floor of Takaosan SUMIKA. It sells exclusive items such as hand towels and postcards featuring cute illustrations of Takaosan SUMIKA’s original characters “Ten & Gu,” as well as T-shirts and mugs depicting the cable car and chairlift.
A souvenir shop within the complex next to the “Takaosan” cable car station.
3 Recommended Accommodations in Hachioji
Below are some accommodation facilities, including those that feature the natural environment and local culture of the tourist destination “Mount Takao,” making your Hachioji trip even more enjoyable. There are also hotels near Hachioji Station, perfect as a base for Hachioji sightseeing. Please choose the accommodation that best suits your travel plans.
1. Takaone Activity & Stay (八王子 TAKAONE ACTIVITY＆STAY)
An accommodation facility located right in front of Keio Takao Line’s Takaosanguchi Station. It’s an “activity-based hotel” conceptualized around not just staying, but also participating in various experiences.
Activities offered by the hotel include pottery experiences, custom Takao tour itineraries, and leather craft making. Each activity is guided by local guides or local creators.
An activity-based hotel where you can participate in various experiences.
2. Keio Plaza Hotel Hachioji (京王廣場飯店八王子)
A city hotel with 200 guest rooms and a wide variety of room types. Located near “Keio-Hachioji” Station and “JR Hachioji” Station, it offers convenient and quick access to downtown Tokyo. It’s also an excellent base for visiting “Mount Takao,” which is popular among international hikers.
A variety of room types are available, from “Suites” to high-quality “Executive Rooms” on high floors, and spacious corner rooms, allowing you to choose according to your preferences or needs.
A hotel with very convenient access to both downtown Tokyo and Mount Takao.
3. Mt. TAKAO BASE CAMP
Located at the foot of Mount Takao, “Mt. TAKAO BASE CAMP” boasts a casual atmosphere and the latest facilities in a mountain lodge style. It has become a popular guest house since its opening in 2019. Room rates are quite affordable, and in addition to dormitory rooms available for private rental, there are family rooms with attached washstands. Whole-inn rentals are also available.
Conclusion
We’ve now introduced you to the must-visit tourist attractions, restaurants, accommodation facilities, and other travel information for Hachioji City. Located just about an hour from central Tokyo, Hachioji City is perfectly suited for inclusion in your Tokyo sightseeing itinerary.
We particularly recommend basing yourself in Hachioji City to embark on a trip centered around Mount Takao, allowing you to fully enjoy the charms of the mountain and its surrounding areas.
If you’d like to learn more detailed travel information about Mount Takao, please be sure to read the article below as well!