Mt Kumotori

Mt Kumotori (Japanese: 雲取山) is a hyakumeizan* that rises at the far western edge of Tokyo as a long, forested summit that feels far more remote than its metropolitan designation suggests. It's the highest peak in Tokyo, standing at the border of Tokyo, Saitama and Yamanashi. Its topography is defined by broad ridges, deep valleys and long forested approaches typical of the Oku‑Chichibu range. Rather than a sharp alpine peak, Kumotori is a spacious, gently rounded summit reached only after many kilometres of ridge walking.

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Kumotori is the principal peak in the range known for its height and remoteness. Historically, religious ascetics and woodcutters climbed the mountain during the Edo period, and today it remains a symbolic summit for Tokyo, although it's invisible from the city itself, hidden deep in the mountains.

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The hiking from Kamosawa is the classic and most direct route, although direct is a relative term as I had to stay overnight at the hut due to the long hiking time. The hike involves a long, steady ascent along the Ishione ridge, passing first through quiet conifer forest and then over a series of undulating high ridges. After many hours of hiking, visitors finally arrive at Kumotori peak. The ridge offers intermittent views of Mt Fuji (富士山) and the deep Oku‑Chichibu valleys. The summit itself opens into a wide panorama over the Kanto mountains. I hiked the mountain in early spring, and particularly enjoyed walking in the light snow on the upper regions of the mountain.

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* 100 famous mountains of Japan

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(All information here is based on personal observations and experiences. Check official sources before planning or starting any hikes.)