You’ve received a curious dispatch from RSBW’s Department of Obscure Symbolism and Orbular Phenomena (DOSOP).
Reports indicate the presence of unusual orb-shaped shrines scattered along the trail to Mt. Takao — polished spheres, steeped in silent reverence, and entirely unexplained. Locals pass them with quiet nods. Tourists barely notice. But you? You’ve been sent to investigate.
Your task: hike the sacred path, locate the orbs, and document their existence. Offer proper respect — a bow, a coin, perhaps even a whispered anime quote. This could be a spiritual convergence point... or just the aesthetic whim of a shrine architect with a love of geometry.
Either way, the Society demands answers. And you must give the orbs their due.
The nearest station is Takaosanguchi, the end of the Takao line. There's a konbini at the bottom where you can load up on snacks for the trip. The hike takes you to a look out point with views of Mt. Fuji (on a good day).
You can substitute out the trail up or down with the chairlift. The route up as shown on the trail is quite pretty. Of course you could take that down instead.
This trail is one of the closest to Tokyo so be aware that it might be quite busy during the weekends. HQ recommends you complete this mission on a week day.
What even are these mysterious objects? Every time you come across one of these orbs, pay your respect:
It was a long hike, you earned it - unless you took the chairlift. At the bottom of the mountain, right next to the station there is the Keio Takaosan Onsen. Follow the other weary travellers in and enjoy a nice relaxing bath. After you're done, you can enjoy a refreshing drink on the tatami mats downstairs.