A spiritual journey near Tokyo. Join a Goma Fire Ritual at Mt. Takao’s Yakuo-in Temple to cleanse worldly desires and pray for good fortune. Enjoy a special Irori course meal at Ukai Toriyama, set in a vast Japanese garden spanning over 6,000 tsubo.
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The Highlight
Experience a sacred fire ritual at Mt. Takao’s Yakuoin Temple and feel your spirit purified as prayers rise with the flames. Walk side by side with a Buddhist monk, discovering the hidden stories and spiritual traditions of Mt. Takao. Ride Japan’s steepest cable car, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. Indulge in an exclusive Irori course meal at Ukai Toriyama, a renowned restaurant set in a tranquil Japanese garden.
The Experience
Mt. Takao Spiritual & Culinary Journey: Goma Fire Ritual, Monk-Guided Temple Walk, and Irori Lunch Course at Ukai Toriyama
Step beyond the ordinary and discover the spiritual heart of Japan—just one hour from central Tokyo. Mt. Takao, a Japan Heritage Site and Michelin three-star destination, welcomes millions each year with its sacred atmosphere, lush forests, and panoramic views. But this exclusive journey invites you to experience a side of Takao few ever see.
Witness the Sacred Goma Fire Ritual At Yakuoin Temple, feel the power of the Goma fire ceremony—a Shingon Buddhist ritual of purification and prayer. From your special seat, watch sacred flames rise as monks offer prayers for good fortune. Take home a Goma talisman and seasonal ritual offering as a spiritual keepsake.
Walk the Hidden Path with a Monk Guide Follow a temple monk along a sacred route normally closed to the public. Stroll through ancient cedar forests and hear stories of Tengu spirits and centuries of devotion on Mt. Takao. Enjoy the ascent on Japan’s steepest cable car with stunning mountain views.
Savor an Irori Lunch at Ukai Toriyama Conclude your journey with a traditional irori lunch in a historic farmhouse surrounded by a vast Japanese garden. Savor premium meats, river fish, and mountain vegetables grilled over the hearth—an elegant harmony of nature and flavor.
Guide Services
Languages Spoken by Guides
- English
- Japanese
Itinerary
- Include: Lunch
- 10:00Meet your English-speaking guide at Takaosanguchi Station, transfer to the cable car.
- 10:30A Yakuoin Temple monk will lead you along the sacred approach, with explanations available in English or Japanese.
- 11:00Experience the Goma fire ritual from a special seat at Yakuoin Temple.
- 12:00Return to the cable car with your English-speaking guide.
- 12:30Transfer by shuttle bus to Ukai Toriyama.
- 13:00Lunch at Ukai Toriyama
- 16:00Return by shuttle bus to Takaosanguchi Station.
- 16:15End of tour
Price Details
Add-on Items
How to Use
- Voucher will be sent via email. Please show your e-voucher at the designated location.
Purchase Notice
- A minimum of 2 participants is required for the tour to operate.
- For groups of 30 or more, please contact us separately.
- The tour is guided in English. You may select another language option when making your reservation (additional fee applies).
- Participants should be able to walk uphill and climb stairs comfortably, as the tour includes about 30 minutes of walking after getting off the cable car.
- During the Goma fire ritual, participants are required to sit quietly in the traditional seiza position. Please note that smoke will be present; those sensitive to smoke or with respiratory conditions may not be able to participate.
- Yakuoin Temple belongs to the Shingon sect of Buddhism, and the Goma ritual is a sacred religious ceremony. Guests with concerns due to personal beliefs are advised to review the tour details carefully before joining.
- At Ukai Toriyama, vegetarian and allergy-friendly meals can be arranged upon request. Please inform us in advance.
- This tour is operated by EIKO M&T JAPAN, INC.
Important Booking Information
- Please wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes (sneakers recommended). Heels and sandals are not suitable for the temple approach.
- Depending on the season, the meeting time may be earlier.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellation made at least 7 day(s) before departure date, Fully refundable (100% refund)
- Cancel during 4 ~ 6 day(s) of departure, will charge 30%
- Cancel during 2 ~ 3 day(s) of departure, will charge 50%
- Cancel during 0 ~ 1 day(s) of departure, Non-refundable (0% refund)
