Mount Kumotori: Highest Peak in Tokyo and part of Japan’s Famous Mountains.
Mount Kumotori (雲取山) is the highest peak in Tokyo at 2,017 meters and a celebrated member of Japan’s “100 Famous Mountains.” Straddling the borders of Tokyo, Saitama, and Yamanashi Prefectures, it offers sweeping views of Mt. Fuji, the Southern Alps, and even Tokyo’s skyline on clear days.
What Makes Mount Kumotori Unique?
It’s also the only mountain in Tokyo included in the “100 Famous Japanese Mountains” list. The summit marks the border of Tokyo, Saitama, and Yamanashi Prefectures. In short, standing at the peak means you’re literally in three prefectures at once.
At the peak, you’ll find a stone marker erected by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to symbolize Tokyo’s highest point.
Although it was rainy when I reached the peak, it was all worth it.
When is the best time to visit?
The best times are:
May – June: Comfortable temperatures, fresh greenery, blooming alpine flowers.Trails are generally snow-free after mid-May.
September – Early November: Stunning autumn foliage, especially around Nanatsuishi Ridge and Okutama area.
A glimpse of Kamosawa trail. Very quite and less crowded. I remember I only encountered 5 people along the way up to Mt. Kumotori.
The Hiking Trails
There are three main trails up Mount Kumotori that I will share with you, each with its own character.
Kamosawa Trail (鴨沢ルート) 7-9 hours round trip: This is the most common and beginner-friendly route. The trail is well-marked and steady, without steep or rocky sections.
Okutama Station via Mt. Mitake and Mt. Odake (Long Ridge Route) 10-12 hours: This is a long ridge traverse, connecting Mt. Mitake → Mt. Odake → Mt. Kumotori. The route offers panoramic views and shrines but is very long and tiring for a single day. Usually done by experienced hikers staying overnight at huts or camping.
Nishizawa or Okuchichibu 8-10 hours round trip: These trails are quieter and less crowded. They pass through deep forests and offer a more remote mountain feel, but transportation logistics make them less convenient for day hikers.
Mountain peak marker of Mt. Nanatsuishi before you reach Mt. Kumotori.
I personally recommend you to take Kamosawa trail based on my experience. I did a day hike and were able to get back to the Kamosawa trail head before 17:00 PM. If you are going to do a day hike please make sure to check the bus schedule going back to Okutama Station.
Getting There from Tokyo
It’s pretty straightforward and here it is.
Shinjuku to Okutama
Take the JR Chuo Line (中央線) bound for Ome (青梅). At Ome Station, transfer to the JR Ome Line (青梅線) bound for Okutama (奥多摩).Okutama to Kamosawa bus station.
Take the Nishi Tokyo Bus (西東京バス) bound for Kamosawa (鴨沢) or Tozura (留浦). Both routes stop at Kamosawa (鴨沢).
Start the Hike
My Sample Day Trip Itinerary
Final Thoughts
Hiking Mt. Kumotori was tough but totally worth it. The climb, the views, even the quiet moments along the trail, everything just hits different when you’re that high up. Definitely one for the books.
So pack your shoes, bring a little curiosity, and turn the idea into an adventure. Until the next trip cheers!
CPTMOW
Jeric (Moses)
Where should we go NEXT?
Where should we go NEXT?
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