Traveling from Tokyo to Mount Fuji

Discover the best ways to travel from Tokyo to Mount Fuji. Explore transport options, costs, and recommended services.

Mount Fuji, Japan’s tallest and most iconic mountain, is a must-visit destination for travelers in Japan. Located just 100 kilometers southwest of Tokyo, it’s accessible for day trips or multi-day adventures. Whether you want to climb the summit or simply admire its beauty, this guide will help you navigate the various ways to travel from Tokyo to Mount Fuji, with a focus on transportation options, costs, and services.

Overview of Transportation Options

You have multiple ways to travel from Tokyo to Mount Fuji, depending on your budget, time, and travel style. Here’s a quick overview of the options:

  1. Train (Shinkansen or Local Lines)
  2. Bus (Highway Buses)
  3. Car Rental or Taxi
  4. Guided Tours

Train: Fast and Comfortable

Traveling by train is one of the most popular ways to get from Tokyo to Mount Fuji. The Japanese rail system is efficient, reliable, and a comfortable option for those who prefer to sit back and enjoy the journey.

1 The JR Chuo Line to Otsuki Station

Your journey starts at Shinjuku Station, one of Tokyo’s main train hubs. From Shinjuku, take the JR Chuo Line (Limited Express) to Otsuki Station, a journey that takes about 70-90 minutes. If you’re using the Japan Rail Pass, this portion is covered, making it a cost-effective choice for JR Pass holders.

  • Cost: ¥1,340 (one-way, without JR Pass)
  • Duration: 70-90 minutes

2 Fujikyu Railway from Otsuki to Kawaguchiko Station

Once you arrive at Otsuki Station, transfer to the Fujikyu Railway, which takes you to Kawaguchiko Station. This scenic ride is your gateway to the Fuji Five Lakes region, located at the base of Mount Fuji.

  • Cost: ¥1,170 (one-way)
  • Duration: 50-60 minutes

Total Train Cost: ¥2,510 (one-way)
Total Duration: Around 2-2.5 hours

 

The Shinkansen Route (Bullet Train)

For travelers who value speed, you can take the famous Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo Station to Mishima Station, which takes about 50 minutes. From Mishima, a bus ride will take you to Kawaguchiko Station or the Fifth Station of Mount Fuji, depending on your destination.

  • Cost: ¥4,000 – ¥5,000 (one-way)
  • Duration: 2.5 hours (train + bus)

Bus: Affordable and Direct

Buses are a more affordable option, and many depart directly from major stations in Tokyo, making them convenient for tourists who prefer not to transfer between trains.

1 Highway Bus from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko

The Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal offers frequent buses that go directly to Kawaguchiko Station and even Fifth Station on Mount Fuji.

  • Cost: ¥2,000 (one-way)
  • Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes to Kawaguchiko, 2 hours 30 minutes to Fifth Station

You can also catch similar buses from Tokyo Station, Shibuya Station, and Shinagawa Station, giving you multiple options to depart from.

2 Fujisan Express Bus

For an even quicker option, try the Fujisan Express Bus, which offers non-stop service to Mount Fuji’s Fifth Station from Shinjuku, making it a good choice for climbers and hikers who want to start their ascent as soon as they arrive.

  • Cost: ¥2,500 (one-way)
  • Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

3 Car Rental: Flexible but Pricey

If you prefer flexibility, renting a car is an ideal option, especially if you’re traveling with a group or family. Many car rental companies, like Toyota Rent-a-Car, Nissan Rent-A-Car, and Times Car Rental, offer affordable rates in Tokyo.

  • Cost: ¥6,000 – ¥12,000 per day, depending on the car model
  • Duration: 2 hours (Tokyo to Mount Fuji)

With a car, you can explore the areas around Mount Fuji at your own pace, including the Fuji Five Lakes, Gotemba Premium Outlets, and the Oshino Hakkai Village.

However, be aware of potential road tolls and parking fees, especially if you plan to drive up to Mount Fuji’s Fifth Station or explore tourist-heavy areas.

4 Guided Tours: Hassle-Free and Informative

For those who prefer a structured itinerary, guided tours from Tokyo to Mount Fuji are a popular option. Companies like Japanican, Viator, and GetYourGuide offer full-day tours that include transportation, an English-speaking guide, and sometimes meals or tickets to local attractions.

  • Cost: ¥8,000 – ¥15,000 per person
  • Duration: Full day (8-10 hours)

These tours are a fantastic way to experience Mount Fuji without worrying about transportation, timing, or navigating train transfers. Some tours also combine visits to other attractions like Hakone, the Fuji-Q Highland theme park, or the Chureito Pagoda, offering a well-rounded day trip experience.

What to Expect When You Arrive

Once you arrive in the Mount Fuji region, you’ll have various options for exploration depending on where you disembark.

2.1 Kawaguchiko Area

If you arrive at Kawaguchiko Station, you’re in the heart of the Fuji Five Lakes area, famous for its serene views of Mount Fuji, museums, hot springs (onsens), and opportunities for outdoor activities like boating and hiking.

Notable places to visit include:

  • Kawaguchiko Lake
  • Oishi Park (perfect for photos with Mount Fuji in the background)
  • Itchiku Kubota Art Museum (features stunning textile art)

2.2 Fifth Station

If you’re aiming to climb Mount Fuji, the Fifth Station is your launch point. Located about halfway up the mountain at 2,305 meters, Fifth Station has restaurants, shops, and places where you can rent climbing gear if necessary.

You can hike to the summit during the official climbing season (July to early September), which takes about 6-8 hours to ascend and 3-4 hours to descend.

Best Time to Travel

While you can visit the Mount Fuji area year-round, the best time depends on your goals.

  • Climbing Season: July to early September is the official Mount Fuji climbing season. The weather is warm, and all facilities (including mountain huts) are open.
  • Cherry Blossom Season: Late April to early May is an excellent time to visit if you want to see cherry blossoms with Mount Fuji in the background.
  • Autumn Leaves: October to November offers beautiful fall foliage and cooler weather for hiking and sightseeing.
  • Winter Views: Winter offers the clearest views of Mount Fuji from afar, although access to the Fifth Station is usually limited due to snow.

Services and Facilities

  • Fujikyu Bus Service: Offers routes from Kawaguchiko Station to popular spots around Mount Fuji.
  • Coin Lockers: Available at major train stations like Kawaguchiko and Shinjuku for storing luggage.
  • Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is widely available at most train stations, buses, and tourist attractions in the Mount Fuji area.
  • Travel Passes: Consider purchasing a Fujisan Pass if you plan on using local buses and trains extensively around the Fuji Five Lakes area.

5. Conclusion

Traveling from Tokyo to Mount Fuji is a straightforward process, with multiple options depending on your budget and preferences. Whether you choose the convenience of a train, the affordability of a bus, or the freedom of a rental car, visiting this iconic mountain is a must for any Japan itinerary. Plan your trip wisely, and enjoy the breathtaking views and cultural experiences that Mount Fuji has to offer.