Rising in western Kanagawa, the Tanzawa Mountains are one of the most popular hiking ranges within easy reach of Tokyo — a green wall of ridges, valleys and waterfalls protected as a quasi-national park. Well-marked trails, mountain huts and ridgeline views (including Mt. Fuji on clear days) draw weekend hikers in every season, from spring greenery and summer escapes from the heat to fiery autumn colours. The signature climb is Mt. Tonodake (1,491 m), while gentler routes and the sacred Mount Oyama suit beginners. For anyone wanting real mountains a short ride from the city, Tanzawa delivers.

This guide covers the main hikes, huts, seasons and how to get there.

🗓️ Quick Reference
Location Western Kanagawa (Tanzawa-Oyama quasi-NP)
Signature peak Mt. Tonodake (1,491 m)
Difficulty Beginner to advanced day hikes
Best time Spring–autumn (colours mid–late Nov)
Good for Hiking, nature, autumn foliage, fitness

Main hikes

  • Mt. Tonodake: the classic Tanzawa summit, often climbed from Okura via the long Okura-One ridge — a rewarding full-day hike with huts en route.
  • Mt. Oyama: a sacred, beginner-friendly peak with a cable car and shrine — see our Oyama guide .
  • Waterfall and valley walks offer easier outings around the foothills.

Huts, seasons & safety

  • Mountain huts on the ridges sell drinks and snacks and offer overnight stays (book ahead on weekends).
  • Autumn colours peak mid-to-late November; spring and early summer are lush; winter brings cold, sometimes snow/ice at altitude.
  • Bring proper gear, water and layers; check weather and trail conditions, and start early.

Tips

  • Trails are popular and well-signed but can be long and steep — know your route and turnaround time.
  • Some areas have mountain leeches in warm, wet months — come prepared in summer.
  • Combine with an onsen at the foot of the mountains to soak afterwards.

Combine your visit

Tanzawa pairs with western Kanagawa:

  • Add the sacred Mount Oyama and Afuri Shrine — see our Oyama guide .
  • Recover with a soak in nearby Hakone hot springs — see our Hakone onsen guide .

How to get there

  • Odakyu line to Shibusawa Station, then a bus to the Okura trailhead.
  • ~1.5 hours from Shinjuku; other trailheads via Hadano and Isehara.