Overview
One of Tokyo's largest cities, Hachioji City is literally filled with fascinating locations and places of interest. Dominated by the famous Mt. Takao, which itself is its own destination, Hachioji City also features galleries like the Hachioji Yume Art Museum, downtown Shinto shrines likes Koyasu Shrine and the stately serene resting places of the Emperors and Empresses of two modern eras.
Koyasu Shrine
Located right in the middle of the city, Koyasu Shrine's busy location belies its charm. Featuring a pond filed with koi fish, the pond's waters extend beneath the nearby buildings. A hallway also connects one shrine to another, setting up seemingly isolated areas within the complex waiting to be discovered.
A 1-minute walk from the West Exit of Keio Hachioji Station on the Keio Line.
Hachioji Yume Art Museum
A small gallery of contemporary 20th-century Japanese art, Hachioji Yume Art Museum is known for its eclectic and varied displays. Holding holds six special exhibitions per year, the museum isn't afraid of exploration and themes have included cats in ukiyoe prints, film, ceramics and even theatre.
A 15-minute walk from the North Exit of Hachijoji Station on the JR Chuo Line.
Mt. Takao
It's hard not to go past Mt. Takao. It's presence dominates the city and is a magnet throughout the year for its legitimate nature, temples & shrines, hot springs and, yes, even a monkey park. Trails to the summit abound but cable cars and chair lifts make the walk to the top easier. A must visit.
A 5-minute walk to the cable car station from Takaosanguchi Station on the Keio Takao Line.
Musashi Imperial Graveyard
Impressively regal and stately, the Musashi Imperial Graveyard is the final resting place of the Emperor Taisho, his wife Empress Teimei and Emperor Showa and his wife, Empress Kojun. With beautiful zelkova trees lining the pathways leading to the burial sites, the complex is magnificently serene - silence is appropriate here.
A 15-minute walk from the North Exit of Takao Station on the Keio Line.
Mt. Takao is one of my go-to places to take visitors. I've been many times on my own, hiking the back trails, too. It's beautiful and a little spooky with it's Shugendo history and lore.