Monday, September 14, 2009

Mt Takao

Glenn had Labor Day off of work and I purposely scheduled my classes around that Monday so that we could do something together. We decided to go somewhere we've been wanting to go, but didn't require a lot of money (aka Fuji Q home of the world's tallest and fastest rollercoaster was out...til another day). We decided to head north and hike Mt Takao.

It took us 5 trains to get there, but only about 80 minutes. It was a beautiful area and it felt great to be out of the concrete jungle that is Tokyo and the surrounding area.

We hiked up trail #6 that was 3-4 kilometers. It followed a stream that had waterfalls and gorgeous, tall Octopus Cedars (so the sign said).We reached the top in about an hour and a half and even had a view of Fuji-san (Mt Fuji) and the Shinjuku area of Tokyo. Can you see Fuji poking out of the top of the clouds? You'll probably have to click on the picture to make it bigger.
The hubby and me at the summit of 599 meters. Thanks for carrying the water, love. You're the best.
We packed a Japanese lunch in true Japanese fashion and enjoyed it at the top. Ok, I didn't bring the ice cream; just a sandwich. I always love seeing what the other people bring in their packed lunches. Usually a boiled egg, a rice triangle, some veggies, etc. My favorite though was the guy that packed his camping stove and boiled water for his cup o' ramen noodles.On the way down the mountain, we hiked trail #1 which led us down the Pilgrim's path. We went through several Shinto shrines. I know it's a religious site and a place for prayer and I always try to be respectful, but I just love taking pics of these fat little guys.The obligatory torii gate picture at every Japanese locale.Glenn and I had a great day together and great weather. I was glad we decided to do this day trip on a Monday because all my students said this mountain is extremely crowded on the weekends.

It sure is nice to have the hubby home!

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