Takosugi: The Octopus Cedar of Mount Takao

3.9 (139)

Visit the legendary Takosugi, a 450-year-old cedar on Mt. Takao with octopus-like roots, offering luck and a unique natural spectacle.

Home
Japan
Kanto
Takosugi

Takosugi, or Octopus Cedar, is a large, ancient cedar tree on Mount Takao, known for its distinctive roots that resemble octopus tentacles. Estimated to be around 450 years old and 37 meters tall, this natural monument is a popular spot for visitors seeking good luck and a connection with nature.

A brief summary to Takosugi

Takaomachi, Hachioji, Takaomachi, Tokyo, 193-0844, JP

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Take a photo with the Takosugi, but remember not to touch the roots; instead, touch the octopus-shaped stone monument for good luck.
Combine your visit with a hike on Mount Takao, exploring other attractions like Yakuo-in Temple and the Monkey Park.
Wear comfortable shoes for hiking, as the path to Takosugi involves some walking.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Muscle monster2

Adventure Awaits at Muscle Monster2

Sagamiko Resort

Sagamiko Resort: A Nature-Filled Retreat

Sagamiko MORI MORI

Sagamiko MORI MORI: A Thrilling Adventure Awaits

Getting There

Walking

From Takaosanguchi Station, walk for about 6 minutes to Kiyotaki Station. From Kiyotaki Station, you can either take the cable car or hike up Mount Takao via Trail 1. Takosugi is located along Trail 1, a short distance past the Monkey Park, on the way to Yakuo-in Temple. The walk from the cable car's Takaosan Station to Takosugi is relatively easy.
Public Transport

Take the Keio Line from Shinjuku Station to Takaosanguchi Station. The journey takes approximately 50 minutes. From Takaosanguchi Station, it's a short walk to the Kiyotaki Cable Car Station at the base of Mount Takao. A one-way cable car ticket costs around ¥500.
Parking

If driving, park near Takaosanguchi Station. Popular options include Musasabi Parking Lot (max ¥2,000) and Takao Sanroku Municipal Parking Lot (max ¥1,000), but they fill up quickly. Yakuoin Parking Lot (max ¥500) is a cheaper alternative with 250 spots. From the parking lots, walk to Kiyotaki Cable Car Station to start your ascent.

Discover more about Takosugi

Takosugi, the Octopus Cedar, is a celebrated natural landmark on Mount Takao, located in the western outskirts of Tokyo. This impressive tree is named for its unique root system, which spreads out from its base in a way that resembles the tentacles of an octopus. The Takosugi stands approximately 37 meters tall and has a circumference of 6 meters, making it the second-largest tree on the mountain.Legend says that when a monk was building a path to Yakuo-in Temple, the Takosugi was in the way. The monk decided to cut it down the next day, but overnight, the tree miraculously moved its roots to clear the path. This act was attributed to the magical power of the Tengu, mythical creatures associated with the mountain. As a result, the Takosugi became known as a symbol of good luck and opening new paths.For many years, visitors touched the tree's roots for good luck, but to protect the tree, a fence was installed in 2007. Now, visitors can touch a stone monument carved in the shape of an octopus to receive the tree's blessings. The tree is considered sacred and is adorned with a sacred straw rope. People associated with fisheries and seafood markets have dedicated monuments to the tree, further emphasizing its connection to the image of an octopus.