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Just about an hour from central Tokyo lies Mt. Takao, one of the most popular tourist destinations with over 3 million annual visitors.
Near the summit of this iconic mountain is a nostalgic eatery that seems frozen in time. Established in 1945, “Yamabiko Chaya” has been a part of the Mt. Takao experience for decades.
Here, you can indulge in a house-special curry or savor soba noodles brimming with the mountain’s bounty. More than anything, the retro ambiance offers a relaxing retreat, letting you unwind in an atmosphere reminiscent of the Showa era.
Join us as we explore the unique experiences that only Mt. Takao, with its stunning views and serene atmosphere, can offer.
Yamabiko Chaya is a historic eatery located near the summit of Mt. Takao in Hachioji, Tokyo. It is one of only three dining spots near the summit.
Yamabiko Chaya is located just below the summit of Mt. Takao. A slight detour to the right before reaching the summit will lead you there.
It’s not uncommon for some hikers to overlook this hidden gem as they focus on reaching the summit. As a result, even when other summit eateries are packed, Yamabiko Chaya can sometimes offer a more tranquil dining experience. However, during peak seasons, it can get busy here as well. Personally, I make it a point to visit Yamabiko Chaya every time I hike Mt. Takao.
With over 70 years of history, this mountain lodge-style eatery, reminiscent of the Showa era, warmly welcomes weary hikers.
The terrace seating allows you to enjoy your meal while taking in the fresh mountain air. Pets are also welcome here.
While Mt. Takao is famous for its soba made with the mountain’s pure water, Yamabiko Chaya’s house-special curry rice is a must-try.
Being at the summit means there are naturally some limitations on the variety and quantity of ingredients compared to the city. Despite that, Yamabiko Chaya’s curry rice, carefully crafted with a blend of spices, is an exceptional dish. It’s flavorful yet mild, making it a perfect post-hike meal.
Another recommended item is the mountain vegetable onigiri, which offers a simple yet comforting flavor. You can even take it to go and enjoy it while admiring the summit’s views.
The restaurant’s recommended dish is mountain vegetable tororo soba, available both hot and cold, offering a seasonal twist to savor.
| Menu | Price |
|---|---|
| Mountain Vegetable Tororo Soba | ¥1,400 |
| Tororo Soba | ¥1,200 |
| Mountain Vegetable Soba | ¥1,200 |
| Tanuki Soba | ¥1,050 |
| Kake Soba | ¥800 |
| Menu | Price |
|---|---|
| Cold Mountain Vegetable Tororo Soba | ¥1,400 |
| Cold Tororo Soba | ¥1,200 |
| Cold Tanuki Soba | ¥1,050 |
| Cold Soba | ¥800 |
| Menu | Price |
|---|---|
| Soba Set (Mountain Vegetable Tororo Soba) | ¥1,600 |
| Soba Set (Tororo Soba) | ¥1,400 |
| Soba Set (Mountain Vegetable Soba) | ¥1,400 |
| Menu | Price |
|---|---|
| Mountain Vegetable Tororo Set Meal | ¥1,600 |
| Mountain Vegetable Oden Set Meal | ¥1,600 |
| Mountain Vegetable Onigiri Set Meal | ¥1,100 |
| Special Curry Rice | ¥1,100 |
| Mountain Vegetable Onigiri | ¥700 |
| Menu | Price |
|---|---|
| Flavored Oden | ¥650 |
| Miso Oden | ¥650 |
| Mountain Vegetable Assortment | ¥800 |
| Grilled Skewers (3 pcs) | ¥650 |
| Mountain Vegetable Mushroom Soup | ¥500 |
| Menu | Price |
|---|---|
| Fruit Anmitsu | ¥800 |
| Tokoroten | ¥500 |
| Amazake | ¥500 |
| Ice Cream | ¥450 |
| Shaved Ice (summer only) | ¥450 - ¥650 |
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Draft Beer (Medium Mug) | ¥800 |
| Local Sake (Kasen) | ¥650 |
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Coffee (HOT/ICE) | ¥500 |
| Oolong Tea | ¥500 |
| Cola | ¥500 |
| Orange Juice | ¥500 |
| Ramune | ¥500 |
| Bottled Water | ¥230 |
| Energy Drink | ¥250 |
There are various routes to reach the summit of Mt. Takao, but even the easiest route using the cable car takes nearly an hour. Naturally, fatigue sets in after the hike.
Food at the summit tastes even better with the added sense of accomplishment from reaching the top.
One of the best things about Yamabiko Chaya is not only the food but also the retro-style ambiance of the restaurant itself. It feels like stepping back 50 years into a nostalgic mountain lodge from the Showa era.
This comforting, nostalgic atmosphere creates a relaxing experience. You can unwind, take in the views from the terrace, and fully enjoy your time at the summit of Mt. Takao.
Dining options at the summit are limited, making Yamabiko Chaya one of the few precious places to eat. The other two restaurants at the summit often get crowded, but Yamabiko Chaya’s location slightly below the summit means it’s often less busy.
This long-established eatery continues to make history alongside Mt. Takao. Be sure to visit Yamabiko Chaya on your next trip.
