御岳 (Mitake)

Bouldering in 御岳 (Mitake)

Mitake, located along the scenic Tama River just west of Tokyo, is Japan’s most iconic and accessible outdoor bouldering destination. The area’s chert and limestone boulders, smoothed and sculpted by centuries of river flow, create a unique style of climbing defined by crimps, slopers, and balance-dependent sequences. The setting is striking—boulders scattered across the riverbed beneath lush forested slopes—making it an ideal escape from the city while remaining just 90 minutes by train from Shinjuku. Classic problems like Ninja Rock and Deadend have shaped the history of Japanese bouldering, while harder testpieces such as Kanimushi (8B) continue to challenge even elite climbers.

The best season for bouldering in Mitake is from late September to May, when the air is cool and friction is at its best. Summers are hot, humid, and often crowded, while winter brings crisp, dry days perfect for hard sends. The polished rock requires precise footwork and solid technique, rewarding those who climb with finesse. What truly sets Mitake apart is its harmony between nature and accessibility—a riverside bouldering paradise just steps from the train station, where Tokyo’s climbing community gathers to test themselves and relax by the water. Visitors are encouraged to respect local etiquette and the environment to help preserve this beloved urban climbing retreat.