Thinking about a day trip from Tokyo to Mount Fuji? Let me share with you in detail the ways on how to go to Mt. Fuji and what attractions you must see upon arrival.
I did a day trip with my wife to Mt. Fuji during our visit to Tokyo and we definitely had a great time. The place was surrounded by beautiful and relaxing views.
Luckily, most of the attractions are easily accessible via the sightseeing bus tour. You will get to know more about this later on, along with the best and easy ways to get around the area.
Let’s dive into the details of a Mount Fuji day trip from Tokyo. The information below will surely make your trip more convenient and memorable. 🙂
- 3 Best Ways to Go from Tokyo to Mount Fuji
- Best Things to Do on Your Day Trip to Mount Fuji
- 1. Oshino Hakkai
- 2. Kachi Kachi Ropeway (Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway)
- 3. Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum
- 4. Chureito Pagoda
- 5. Fuji 5th Station
- 6. Gotemba Premium Outlets
- 7. Fuji-Q Highland
- 8. Oshino Ninja Village
- 9. Fuji Shibazakura Festival
- 10. Oishi Park
- How to Tour Around Mount Fuji
- Mount Fuji Day Trip from Tokyo (Suggested Itineraries)
- Related Posts
3 Best Ways to Go from Tokyo to Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is around 100 km from Tokyo and it takes about 2 hours to complete the journey.
There are 3 best transport options available ― Fujikyuko/ Keio Bus (Highway Bus), Fuji Excursion train, and guided tour.
Depart: Shinjuku (Tokyo)
For a day trip going to Mount Fuji from Tokyo, the best and easiest way is to take a highway bus or train from Shinjuku.
If you choose the bus, you can take it at Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal. For the train, you need to board it at Shinjuku Train Station.
Arrive: Kawaguchiko Station
Kawaguchiko Station is the main transportation hub within the Mount Fuji area. Most of the buses and trains depart and stop here.
There’s a sightseeing bus tour available in Kawaguchiko Station. This is such a great choice if you want to tour around the area conveniently.
The options below are some of the public transports that will take you to the Kawaguchiko Station.
1. Fujikyuko or Keio Bus (Highway Bus)
The cheapest way to get from Tokyo to Mount Fuji is taking the Fujikyuko Bus or Keio Bus. For a single trip, you just have to pay 2,200 yen per person for the bus ticket price. The ride takes around 1 hour 45 minutes.
You can take the bus from level 4 of the Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal in Tokyo. It’s located beside the Shinjuku Train Station.
This is a direct bus route and it will stop at Kawaguchiko Station and Fuji-Q Highland.
Bus Information:
- The buses leave every 10 to 30 minutes and they start at 6:45 AM and end by 8:15 PM. You can book the bus tickets online or directly at the bus terminal.
- I personally prefer booking online because there are times the tickets at the bus terminal are fully booked.
2. Fuji Excursion (Limited Express Train)
From Shinjuku Station (Tokyo), take the Fuji Excursion Limited Express Train to Mount Fuji. The single journey takes around 1 hour and 53 minutes and costs roughly 4,130 yen per person. This train will take you directly to Kawaguchiko Station, which is in the Mt. Fuji area.
Train Information:
- The train only provides 3 round trips every day between Tokyo and Mount Fuji. The departure times from Shinjuku Station are 7:30 AM, 8:30 AM, and 9:30 AM.
- And for the return trip, the departure times of the trains from Kawaguchiko Station are 3:03 PM, 4:51 PM, and 5:36 PM.
- You can buy your train tickets online or purchase these at the ticket office of Shinjuku Station.
If you opt for an online reservation, here’s a step-by-step guide that you can follow. Alternatively, you can book the train tickets online here, which is much easier than using the website below.
- Head to the JR-East Train Reservation website.
- Choose “Purchase tickets” (Customers not using a pass).
- Click on “Search by Line”.
- Line: “Chuo Line(Chiba/Tokyo – Matsumoto, and others)”, Departure station: “Shinjuku”, Arrival station: “Kawaguchiko” and Date of travel: Select the date you want to visit.
- Click on “Search”.
- Choose FUJI EXCURSION 3 (Departure time is 7:30 AM)/ FUJI EXCURSION 7 (Departure time is 8:30 AM)/ FUJI EXCURSION 11 (Departure time is 9:30 AM)
3. Fuji Day Tour
Taking the Mount Fuji day tour from Tokyo is the best choice if you don’t have extra time to plan for your day trip.
This is highly recommended if you just want to sit back, relax, and let the tour guide bring you to the main sights.
Aside from saving time from doing your research, this minimizes the possibility of getting lost during your travel. It’s because everything is already accounted for during the day tour.
You can check out one of the best tours here: Mt. Fuji Tour 1/ Mt. Fuji Tour 2/ Mt. Fuji Tour 3, if you’re looking a stress-free trip.
An alternative way to enjoy a day trip to Mt. Fuji is to hire a private car charter. You can book their car service here, which comes with a professional English-speaking driver. Plus, you have the flexibility to customize your own itinerary.
Best Things to Do on Your Day Trip to Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is such a gorgeous place to explore. It is loaded with beautiful views, breathtaking gardens, traditional sites, and a lot more.
So, let me introduce you to the 10 best things to do and see around Mt. Fuji. All of these are perfect for a one-day trip, especially for first-time visitors who want to discover this amazing place from Tokyo.
1. Oshino Hakkai
A Mt. Fuji day trip from Tokyo is incomplete without experiencing the serene charm of Oshino Hakkai.
This small village is filled with eight scenic ponds and offers many gorgeous sights to capture. Walk around the beautiful pathways and enjoy the peaceful ambience.
As you explore the ponds, try to take a photo of Mount Fuji and the traditional sites surrounding the area.
Along the way, you’ll come across various local vendors selling tasty snacks and drinks.
There are also plenty of souvenir shops that feature unique crafts and artistic products.
2. Kachi Kachi Ropeway (Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway)
Kachi Kachi Ropeway should also be on your Mount Fuji day trip list. This cable car offers you an exceptional journey bounded by breathtaking lake views and mountain sights.
Without a doubt, this is one of the best spots to take a photograph of Mount Fuji.
Glide your way from the shore of Lake Kawaguchiko to the observation peak along Mount Tenjo.
There’s an option for you to avail of the round trip and simply just relax while the cable car travels back and forth.
But if you want extra fun, you may take off at the observation deck and then tour around the place.
3. Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum
Visit the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum and be in awe of the European-inspired designs.
This beautifully styled theme park is known for its cosy atmosphere and unparalleled view of Mount Fuji.
Aside from its themed landscapes, the inside of the museum holds a special collection of musical instruments.
Navigate the antique exhibits and unravel the array of vintage organs.
There are also several musical experiences as well as instrument demonstrations for everyone. And, make sure not to miss the live performances and sand art storytelling shows.
4. Chureito Pagoda
Head to the 5-storied Chureito Pagoda and see the spectacular Mount Fuji from afar.
This well-known shrine requires you to hike your way up the mountain. It takes around 400 steps to reach the top, so ready yourself in advance.
While at the top, explore the popular pagoda and capture the beautiful views of the iconic mountain and surrounding lakes.
If you visit the place during spring or autumn, the shrine’s even more captivating because of the bright nature colors.
5. Fuji 5th Station
Take a trip to Mt. Fuji 5th Station or Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station. This is the starting point for those who want to see Mount Fuji up-close.
It is located near the Yoshida Trail, which opens up halfway to the summit of the famous mountain.
So, if you don’t have extra time to climb the peak of Mount Fuji, simply visit this place and enjoy the incredible sights. Watching the hikers ascend to the top is already a remarkable experience.
6. Gotemba Premium Outlets
If your Mount Fuji day trip from Tokyo has a shopping agenda, Gotemba Premium Outlets is a top pick. This flagship mall is situated in Gotemba, offering a remarkable view of Mt. Fuji.
Unlike other shopping centers, this one is very huge, featuring over hundreds of stores and restaurants.
Go around the different stalls and find various international brands. There are plenty of fashion items, household goods, electronics, and sports stuff.
Aside from the shops, this mall comes with its own Ferris wheel, hotel, and hot spring bath.
7. Fuji-Q Highland
Fuji-Q Highland might not be as popular as Tokyo DisneySea or Tokyo Disneyland, but it’s definitely a must-visit amusement park.
Try the thrilling roller coasters that cater to all kinds of adventure-seekers. There are fast-paced as well as steep ones to fuel your adrenaline.
If you’re not a fan of scary rides, don’t worry because there are other options.
Be entertained by the themed attractions that are mostly based on famous anime series. You can also complete some mazes and enjoy traditional rides like carousel, teacup, and more.
To top it all, there are restaurants, souvenir shops, and rest areas.
And before you visit the park, it’s recommended that you book the admission tickets from website 1 or website 2 to save money.
8. Oshino Ninja Village
Drop by Oshino Ninja Village and witness some incredible ninja performances.
This scenic complex welcomes visitors with their one-of-a-kind presentations. And to make the shows even more exciting, they are all dressed up in character.
Be mesmerized by their amazing ninja fighting skills and techniques that are really fun to watch. While they are performing, you can also catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji.
And if you have extra time, wander around the vast Japanese garden and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere.
9. Fuji Shibazakura Festival
Visiting Mt. Fuji between April and May? Don’t miss the Fuji Shibazakura Festival, one of the most anticipated annual events.
At this time, people flock to the Fuji Five Lakes area to witness the incredible landscape of Shibazakura.
Watch the beautiful combination of pink and purple hues that stretches up to 2.4 hectares of land.
The captivating flower scene is set against the unmatched backdrop of Mt. Fuji.
So, be ready to capture this spectacular sight or simply revel in the beauty straight from your eyes.
10. Oishi Park
Stroll around Oishi Park and enjoy the picturesque nature views.
This park is very popular for its fields of lavender that are set near the panoramic Mt. Fuji and the pristine Lake Kawaguchiko.
Because of its gorgeous landscape, it has become a favorite among photographers.
And if you want to have a more amazing experience, try to visit the place during early summer. This is the best time to catch the Kawaguchiko Herb Festival and see the seasonal flowers in full bloom.
How to Tour Around Mount Fuji
Once you reach Kawaguchiko Station from Tokyo, there are 5 types of buses to choose from. These buses help you get around the Mount Fuji area conveniently.
But be reminded that each bus covers different tourist spots. Don’t worry because I’ll explain everything in detail later on.
If you want to visit Chureito Pagoda, it’s highly recommended that you take a train instead. It’s the best and fastest way to reach the shrine. You can get more information about this option through point 6 written below.
1. Omni Buses
Omni buses have 3 lines, and these are Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Bus (Red-Line), Saiko Sightseeing Bus (Green-Line), and Narusawa/Shojiko/Motosuko Sightseeing Bus (Blue-Line). You can easily get on the buses upon arriving at Kawaguchiko Station.
If you want to save money, try to avail of the pass that offers unlimited use for all three lines.
You can use this pass for two consecutive calendar days. Each pass costs 1,700 yen.
- Red-Line: This bus covers major sights such as Kachi Kachi Ropeway, Kawaguchiko Music Forest, Oishi Park, and Fuji Q Highland
- Green-Line: For attractions like Kawaguchiko Herb Hall, Saiko Bat Cave (Lava Cave), and Lake Saiko, choose this one.
- Blue-Line: Take this if you want to visit Fuji Q Highland, Fujisan World Heritage Center, Fugaku Fuketsu (Wind Cave), Narusawa Hyoketsu (Ice Cave), and Lake Shojiko.
2. Fujikko-Go Bus
For those planning to go to Oshino Hakkai, Oshino Ninja Village, Fuji Q Highland, and around Lake Yamanakako, ride the Fujikko-Go Bus.
The two-day unlimited ticket for this bus is 1,700 yen per person.
3. Fuji-Subaru Line (Shuttle Bus)
If you want to reach Mt. Fuji 5th Station, take the Fuji-Subaru Line that is located at the Kawaguchiko Station. Then, get off the shuttle bus at the Fuji-Subaru Line 5th Station.
The one-way trip takes around 50 minutes while the bus fare is 1,780 yen. For the round-trip, it costs 2,800 yen.
4. Local Bus (Line A or Line C)/ Express Bus
Opt for the local bus (Line A or Line C) or express bus if you wish to go to Gotemba Premium Outlets.
If you choose the local bus, the single trip takes around 1 hour and 35 minutes and costs 1,540 yen.
For the express bus, the travel duration is about 1 hour and the price is 1,630 yen.
If the first or last stop of your trip to Mount Fuji is Gotemba Premium Outlets, you can visit this website. This will show you how to go from Tokyo and vice versa.
5. Shibazakura Liner (Shuttle Bus)
The last option is via the Shibazakura Liner (Shuttle Bus). This bus takes you from Kawaguchiko Station to Fuji Shibazakura Festival for roughly 40 minutes. The fare costs 2,400 yen, which already includes the entrance fee and round-trip.
Do take note that the Fuji Shibazakura Festival is only best to explore from mid-April until the end of May. The rest of the days are no longer worth the visit.
6. Fujikyu Railway Line
As mentioned earlier, if you want to explore Chureito Pagoda, you should take the Fujikyu Railway Line.
Ride the train from Kawaguchiko Station to Shimoyoshida Station, which takes around 15 minutes. You have to pay 310 yen for this one-way trip.
Mount Fuji Day Trip from Tokyo (Suggested Itineraries)
I have prepared some sample day trip itineraries from Tokyo to Mount Fuji below to help you during your preparation.
Each itinerary will show you how long you should stay at each attraction. It also details out the ways on how to visit the places.
Also, don’t miss to check out my perfect 7 day Tokyo itinerary, which is very helpful for first-timers!
Hi! May I know can I board the Omni Red Line bus from the midway bus stop at Kachi Kachi Ropeway to Kawaguchiko Living Center (Oishi Park) instead of starting at Kawaguchiko Station? Additionally, am I able to use my Pasmo card for this journey without the need to purchase a pass?
Hi Jamie, you can board the Omni Red Line bus at Kachi Kachi Ropeway; there’s no need to start at Kawaguchiko Station. However, you can’t use your Pasmo card on this bus. Instead, you’ll need to purchase a pass directly from the bus driver when you get on.
hi, I love the detailed itinerary – can you suggest a route if we want to visit these places only, we plan to go by January
Thanks in advance!
> GOTEMBA OUTLET
> LAKE KAWAGUCHI
> OSHI NO HAKKAI
> CHUREITO PAGODA
Hi radgj, I suggest the following route for your day trip: Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal > Odakyu Bus/ JR Bus > Gotemba Premium Outlets > Limited Express Bus > Kawaguchiko Station > Red Line Bus > Lake Kawaguchi > Red Line Bus > Kawaguchiko Station > Fujikko-Go Bus > Oshino Hakkai > Fujikko-Go Bus > Kawaguchiko Station > Highway Bus/ Fuji Excursion > Shinjuku (Tokyo).
Organizing these four places into one day trip is difficult due to the considerable distances between them, which results in longer commute times.
Hi! Thank you for the useful information and itinerary suggestions!
I saw in an earlier comment that Pasmo cards (i assume Suica as well) are not usable for Omni. Are they not usable for all bus types apart from the local buses?
Yes, Pasmo and Suica cards cannot be used for Omni and other bus types, except local buses.
Hi Josh,
Can you suggest a route for these places that we are planning to visit as a day trip. Thanks in advance
Lake Kawaguchi
Oshino Hakkai
Chureito Pagoda
Mt fuji Panoramic Ropeway
Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum
Hi Lyann,
Here’s my suggested route for you:
Kawaguchiko Station > Red Line Bus > Lake Kawaguchi > Walk to Mt Fuji Panoramic Ropeway Station > Red Line Bus > Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum > Kawaguchiko Station > Fujikko-Go Bus > Oshino Hakkai > Fujikko-Go Bus > Mt. Fuji Station > Take Highway Bus or Fuji Excursion Limited Express Train to return to Tokyo
I didn’t include Chureito Pagoda in my suggested route because this attraction requires more time, and I don’t think it can be visited with the above attractions in one day.
Hi, thank you so much for the information! Could you please suggest a route if we want to visit these places only for a day trip, we plan to go in the end of Nov. Thank you so much!
1. Kachi Kachi Ropeway
2. Oishi park
3. Oshino ninja village
4. Chireito pagoda
Hi Viva,
Sorry for my late reply.
Here you go: Kawaguchiko Station > Red Line Bus > Kachi Kachi Ropeway > Red Line Bus > Oishi Park > Red Line Bus > Kawaguchiko Station > Fujikko-Go Bus > Oshino Ninja Village > Fujikko-Go Bus > Mt. Fuji Station > Fujikyu Railway Line > Shimoyoshida Station > Walk > Chireito Pagoda > Walk > Shimoyoshida Station > Fujikyu Railway Line > Mt. Fuji Station > Use the Highway Bus or Fuji Excursion Limited Express Train for your journey back to Tokyo
Hi Josh, l going to Tokyo soon and also travel to Nikko and Mt Fuji area.
I already have esim and wonder it’s necessary to carry a portable WiFi since on the outskirts the signal will be weak. Please advise and thank you!
Hi Tom Quah, you should be good to go with your eSIM as long as it can connect to the internet. This way, you won’t have to bother carrying a portable Wi-Fi device.
HI,
Can you suggest a day trip itinerary to mount fuji by car and then we will continue our journey to Matsumoto. I’m not planning any shopping for this trip if possible .
Thanks in advance
Hi Suria, I recommend this driving route for you: Start at Kachi Kachi Ropeway, then head to the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum, followed by Oshino Hakkai, and finish at either Chureito Pagoda or Fuji-Q Highland. Hope you like it!
Hi Josh
Can you suggest an itenary for
Lake Kawaguchi
Mt Fuji 5th Station
Oshino Hakkai
Ropeway
Gotemba Outlet
And any tour that includes above.
Thanks
Rohit
Hi Rohit,
It’s challenging to visit all the places you’ve listed in one day, as some are quite far apart.
Here’s my suggested itinerary for you:
For a day tour, consider the popular Mt. Fuji tour covering Mt. Fuji 5th Station, Lake Kawaguchi, Oshino Hakkai, and Gotemba Premium Outlets.
If you’re going on a trip with a group or family, check out the Mt. Fuji private one-day tour. It’s great because you can customize your itinerary to your preference.
Hi Josh, I’m planning to visit Oshino Hakkai, Ropeway and Lake Kawaguchiko boat ride. If I’m taking the Fuji Excursion Limited Express train, would it make more sense to alight at Mt Fuji station instead of Kawaguchiko station and take the bus there to Oshino Hakkai?
Yes, you’re correct.
Hi,
For option 2, if I remove Gotemba premium from the itinerary, will I be able to reach Tokyo before 4 pm? I will take the first trip from Shinjuku to to Kawaguchiko.
Thank you.
Hi Jess, I think it should be okay, but it’ll be a bit rushed. You need to make sure to reach the Kachi Kachi Ropeway (Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway) by 9:00 AM and perhaps plan to stay there for about 1.5 hours before heading to another destination.
For your return trip to Tokyo, you should take the highway bus, as the first Fuji Excursion train from Kawaguchiko Station doesn’t leave until 3:03 PM.
If you’re rushing for a flight on that day, then I wouldn’t suggest visiting Mt. Fuji
Hi Josh:
I had bought Fuji Hakone 3 days pass. I will go to mount fuji from shinjuku. I will stay a night at mount Fuji and travel to Hakone the next day. Here are the places that i wish to visit:
Lake Kawaguchi
Mt Fuji 5th Station
Oshino Hakkai
Ropeway
Gotemba Outlet
Can you please give me some guide? Is Fuji Hakone pass will allow me to take any type of buses or train?
Thank you in advance for your help.
Sim
Hi Hui Hui,
I would recommend following this route:
Day 1: Kawaguchiko Station > Fuji Subaru Line Bus > Mt Fuji 5th Station > Fuji Subaru Line Bus > Kawaguchiko Station > Red Line Bus > Ropeway > Walk > Lake Kawaguchi > Red Line Bus > Kawaguchiko Station > Fujikko-Go Bus > Oshino Hakkai > Fujikko-Go Bus > Kawaguchiko Station/ Mt. Fuji Station
Day 2: Traveling from Kawaguchiko Station to Gotemba Outlet via the Limited Express Bus
I haven’t personally used the Fuji Hakone Pass before, and I found that it doesn’t cover much of the transportation in the Fuji area. I believe it doesn’t include the Red Line Bus and Fujikko-Go Bus.
Hi Josh,
Im planning to visit the following mid dec 2023. How should i plan it. is it feasible to do all and able to catch the highway bus back (6.35pm)
Chireito pagoda
Lake Kawaguchi
Oishi Park
Honcho street
Kachi Kachi Ropeway
Oshino Hakkai
Thank you so much
Jac
Hi Jac, I’ve decided to skip Oishi Park in the itinerary since it’s quite far from Chureito Pagoda, Honcho Street, and Oshino Hakkai. I don’t think it’s feasible to visit all these places in one day. So, here’s my alternative suggested route for you. I hope you find it helpful.
Kawaguchiko Station > Red Line Bus > Kachi Kachi Ropeway > Red Line Bus > Kawaguchiko Station > Fujikyu Railway Line > Shimoyoshida Station > Walk > Chireito Pagoda > Walk > Honcho Street > Walk > Shimoyoshida Station > Fujikyu Railway Line > Mt. Fuji Station > Fujikko-Go Bus > Oshino Hakkai > Fujikko-Go Bus > Mt. Fuji Station > Going Back to Tokyo.
Hi Josh, thank you so much for the information! Could you suggest a route if we want to visit these places only for a day trip, we plan to go on mid January. Thank you so much!
1. Kachi Kachi Ropeway
2. Oishi park
3. Oshino Hakkai
4. Chireito pagoda
5. Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum
Hi Sheryl,
I didn’t include Chureito Pagoda in the itinerary because it’s quite far from the other four places. I don’t think it’s possible to cover all of them in one day. Here’s my suggested route instead. I hope you’re fine with this change.
Kawaguchiko Station > Red Line Bus > Kachi Kachi Ropeway > Red Line Bus > Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum > Red Line Bus > Oishi Park > Red Line Bus > Kawaguchiko Station > Fujikko-Go Bus > Oshino Hakkai > Fujikko-Go Bus > Mt. Fuji Station > Return to Tokyo.
Hi Josh, thank you so much for the information! Could you suggest a route if we want to visit these places only for a day trip, we plan to go next week. Thank you so much!
1. Honcho street
2. Oishi park
3. Oshino Hakkai
4. Chireito pagoda
5. FujiQ highland
6. Arayayama Shrine
Hi Sarah 🙂
It’s quite challenging to visit all the suggested places in just one day trip. Below is the itinerary I recommend:
Kawaguchiko Station > Red Line Bus > Oishi Park > Red Line Bus > Kawaguchiko Station > Fujikko-Go Bus > Oshino Hakkai > Fujikko-Go Bus > Mt. Fuji Station > Fujikyu Railway Line > Shimoyoshida Station > Chireito Pagoda > Honcho Street > Shimoyoshida Station > Fujikyu Railway Line > Kawaguchiko Station/ Mt Fuji Station > Highway Bus > Head back to Tokyo