Mount Takao · Winter

Diamond Fuji from Mount Takao

For a few days around the winter solstice, the sun sets exactly on the summit of Mount Fuji as seen from Mount Takao. For a moment it sits on the peak like a jewel, which is why the Japanese call it Diamond Fuji (ダイヤモンド富士). Here's when to go, where to stand and, just as important, how to get down afterwards.

By Luke, local guide since 2013Updated 22 October 20265 min read

Snow-capped Mount Fuji above blue ridges, seen through pines from Takao's summit

When: Around 17–28 Dec
Time: About 16:00–16:15
Where: Summit and Momiji-dai
Bring: Headtorch, warm layers

What Diamond Fuji is

Diamond Fuji happens wherever the sun rises or sets exactly behind Fuji's summit. From most places that's only a day or two a year, but because of where Mount Takao sits, about 55 km north-east of Fuji, the sun lines up with the peak over several days either side of the winter solstice.

When to see it

In 2025 the cable car company gave the viewing window as 17 to 28 December, around 16:00 to 16:15. The solstice falls on 22 December this year, so expect a similar window in 2026. The exact days shift a little year to year, so check the latest dates before you go.

You need a clear western sky right at sunset. Winter is the clearest season of the year, but cloud over the mountains can still hide Fuji, so watch the forecast and have a backup day if you can.

Where to stand

The summit (599 m): the west-facing viewing area. The classic spot, and the busiest.
Momiji-dai: five minutes past the summit along the ridge, and often a little calmer.
Arrive early. On weekends photographers set up tripods from early afternoon. Be there by about 14:30 for a good spot, and keep the space around tripods clear.

Getting down after dark

This is the part people forget. The sun sets around 16:15 and it's dark by 17:00. In past years the cable car has run later than usual, until about 18:00, during the Diamond Fuji period, but not in bad weather, so check the Takao cable car's announcements on the day.

It's about 40 minutes on foot from the summit to the cable car's top station, on the main paved Trail 1.
Bring a headtorch. The path is dark under the trees, and phone torches drain batteries fast in the cold.
Stick to Trail 1 after dark. Trail 6 and the Inariyama Trail have roots, steps and stream crossings that are no place to be in the dark.

What to bring

A headtorch, plus a spare battery
Warm layers, a hat and gloves: you'll be standing still in the cold for an hour
Something hot to drink, and snacks
Shoes with good grip, as stone steps can be icy in the shade
For photos: a telephoto lens (200 mm and up), a tripod, and a small aperture (around f/11–f/16) for a starburst as the sun touches the peak

Private tour · 5 hoursHachioji in SeasonMy winter tour: Takao's clearest Fuji views, the temple in the frost and hot soba after the climb.From ¥12,000 per person

Private tour · 5 hoursMount Takao: Beyond TokyoThe classic Takao day, any time of year.From ¥12,000 per person

Questions people ask

When can you see Diamond Fuji from Mount Takao?

For several days around the winter solstice, roughly 17 to 28 December, at about 16:00 to 16:15. Check the latest dates before you go.

Where is the best place to see Diamond Fuji on Takao?

The west-facing area at the summit, or Momiji-dai, five minutes further along the ridge.

How do I get down Mount Takao after sunset?

Walk down the paved Trail 1 with a headtorch, about 40 minutes to the cable car's top station. The cable car has usually run until about 18:00 during the Diamond Fuji period, weather permitting.

Will I definitely see Diamond Fuji?

Only if the sky to the west is clear at sunset. Winter skies are often clear, but cloud can roll in over the mountains, so a backup day helps.