[Drive] Enjoying food without climbing the mountain! Must-visit shops on the approach to Takao Station and luxurious noriben

Easily accessible from downtown, there are various dining options lined up at the popular tourist spot of Mount Takao. It's recommended not only for climbing but also as a stopover for drives or motorcycle tours. This time, I enjoyed food walking along the approach and the luxurious noriben near Takao Station.

There are many takeout gourmet options on the approach to Mount Takao

The approach to "Takao-san Yakuo-in Yuki-ji" on Mount Takao is lined with many souvenir shops and restaurants, bustling with a lot of tourists. Although I had been aware of it for some time, I had only passed by without stopping, so I decided to explore the places I was curious about.

Takosuzume's "Takosen" is a must-try in a convenient size

The first place I visited was the takoyaki and takosen shop "Takosuzume." I ordered the takosen, which is takoyaki sandwiched between pieces of takosenbei. They offered options for one piece and two pieces, and I chose the one-piece option. I was happy that it’s a convenient size since I wanted to try various shops! The takosenbei has a simple taste that reminds me of a traditional candy store, but the takoyaki is rich and has an authentic flavor!

The popular Takao Sankakudo "Doughnut" is rich

Next, I visited the doughnut and gelato shop "Takao Sankakudo," located in an alley along the approach. I came specifically for the doughnuts and ordered the custard flavor. I ate it in the eat-in space at the back.

It has received great reviews on social media and online, and after trying it, I understand why. When I bite into the chewy dough, a generous amount of cream spills out. The flavor of the custard is rich and aromatic, with a depth that surpasses typical custard. Even the hikers next to me were groaning about how delicious it was! With considerable volume, it's the perfect takeout gourmet for a tired body.

There is also an onsen at Takao Station

At the Keio Line's Takao Station, there is a day-use onsen called "Gokurakuyu." Not only can you enjoy the gourmet food, but you can also sweat it out, making it a great resting spot for drives or motorcycle tours.

Having fully enjoyed takeout gourmet and a travel mood, I left Mount Takao and aimed for my destination towards JR Takao Station.

Noriben-tei's Noriben "Yama" is hefty

Finally, I arrived at Noriben-tei, located at the intersection of Route 20 and Machida Kaido. It’s a rare specialty shop for noriben, featuring carefully grilled chicken and salmon over charcoal, using seaweed from Ariake. Noriben-tei is part of the same chain as the popular street ramen shop at Takao Station that is buzzing on social media and YouTube.