A Recharging Soak and Day Away at a Nature-Kissed Hot Springs by Mt. Takao

Visible from the platform of Keio Line's Takaosanguchi Station, Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu is surrounded by the expansive natural scenery of Mt. Takao. Feast your eyes on the unfolding green for a true chance to recharge. Set by the tracks of the Keio Yamaguchi Line, the hot spring offers an ideal location and convenient access for a trip out from central Tokyo that feels more like a journey back to mother nature.

One step inside and find yourself greeted by the eye-catching tengu (goblin) statue at the entrance. Mt. Takao is known as a sacred mountain with a long history of tengu worship, believed to bring good fortune and ward off evil. Swing by hear and draw in closer to the unique history and culture of Mt. Takao.

Designed with extra wide-open space, you’re in for a treat with many baths to try. Take a dip at the Cypress Bath, said to have the benefits of forest bathing, thanks to the microbubbles that cleanse the pores for a smooth, refreshed finish. The Open-Air Rock Bath is a perfect stop for natural hot spring waters that spring from some 1,000 meters underground, leaving skin soft and supple. The sprawling scenery just outside offers a visual treat of Mt. Takao’s rich, natural backdrop to enjoy.

There’s plenty of options to love, especially at the ever-popular Open-Air Carbonated Stone Bath. Here you’ll find waters that recreate the rare carbonated hot springs found in Japan and a wide acclaim do to its higher concentration of carbonation compared to other nearby bathing facilities. The tingling sensation from the carbonation improves circulation, helping oxygen and nutrients reach every part of the body for a boost in cell renewal, healthier skin and anti-aging effects. Step in and stay awhile, especially if you’re prone to cold, for a soothing chance to warm up from the core.

Delight yourself in the ever-changing sense of new over at the Seasonal Bath. Home to themed joys like the Chocolate Bath during Valentine's season or Blue Hawaii Bath in summer, Sakura Bath in spring, the famed Maple Bath in autumn or Yuzu Bath in winter. Lose yourself in the aroma and atmosphere of each season, providing a fresh way to enjoy a soak no matter when you visit.

The summer months bring the annual "Fukan no Yu," a lukewarm bath around 36 degrees Celsius, set to mirror body temperature. This adjusted temperature helps relax the muscles, providing a soothing and calming effect. It's especially pleasant in the heat, allowing for a longer, more comfortable soak. No matter the season, there’s always a new onsen experience to enjoy, making it a place you'll want to visit again and again.
Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu is a popular stop for both tourists and locals alike, making for a host of regular visitors. The variety of baths, along with friendly customer service and impeccably maintained, clean facilities, are key reasons for its strong following.

After a refreshing soak at the springs it’s time for a feast at the on-site restaurant. Complete with Japanese, Western, and Chinese fare, the most highly recommended and popular option is the Mugitoro Matsu Gozen. This luxurious set features Takao’s famous tororo (grated yam), which is known for its high nutritional value. It is said that tororo became a local specialty because it was served to pilgrims visiting Takao-san Yakuo-in Temple to help alleviate their fatigue. The set includes beef tongue, tempura, tuna sashimi, and mini soba, making it perfect for those who want to sample a variety of dishes.
In addition to set meals, the restaurant offers curry rice, noodles, and seasonal limited-time dishes, allowing visitors to enjoy new flavors every time they visit.

After warming up at the springs, take your comfort to the next level over at Hogushi-Dokoro. Step inside to find experienced therapists, ready to provide refined, all-hand treatments that effectively soothe your everyday fatigue. The most popular treatment is the "Body Care Course," which carefully loosens the tension throughout your entire body. Incorporating stretches, this course gently relieves muscle stiffness, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated after the session!

Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu offers an authentic Japanese onsen experience, and chance to dip into the full, soothing immersion of the hot springs. Promised with a kiss of the great outdoors around Mt. Takao, time spent here feels like a cleansing retreat for both body and mind. Whether you're visiting after a day of sightseeing at Mt. Takao or simply making this onsen your destination, it’s well worth the trip! With towel rentals available (for a fee), you can easily stop by on your next relaxing visit.