Mount Fuji is one of the must visit destinations for those visiting Japan. As one of Japan’s most iconic symbols, Mount Fuji was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013. It attracts many international tourists with its convenient access from Tokyo.
This article details the various ways to travel from Tokyo to Mount Fuji, along with tips for a smooth trip and recommended nearby attractions. Whether you’re visiting Mount Fuji for the first time or planning a return trip, you’ll find useful information here.
1.How to Get from Tokyo to Mount Fuji
昨日の富士五湖エリアは雨風すごかったです。
— 富士登山オフィシャルサイト (@fujisanclimb) June 3, 2023
今日昼に雲が切れて見えた富士山は雪がぐっと減っていました。
1枚目:6/1
2枚目:6/3
(環境省インターネット自然研より) pic.twitter.com/ZsGo6aWmVO
There are a multitude of ways to get to Mount Fuji from Tokyo, including by train, bus, car, and even helicopter. To find the one that best suits your travel style, let’s compare the pros and cons of each method.
1-1.Highway Bus
Taking a highway bus is one of the most budget-friendly options to travel from Tokyo to Mount Fuji, with fares starting at just 2,100 yen. Buses depart from major hubs like Tokyo Station and Shinjuku Station and take about 2 hours to reach the area.
One major advantage of highway buses is their low cost compared to trains or rental cars. They also allow you to relax and enjoy the scenery without the need to drive. Additionally, buses can accommodate large suitcases, making them a convenient option for travelers with heavy luggage.
1-2.Train
Traveling by train from Tokyo Station to Kawaguchiko Station, the nearest station to Mount Fuji, takes about 3 hours and costs around 2,690 yen.
The typical route involves taking the JR Chuo Line from Tokyo Station to Otsuki Station, where you transfer to the Fujikyuko Line bound for Kawaguchiko Station. Trains can be more comfortable for some travelers but are slightly more expensive than buses and require transfers.
For a faster option, you can take the limited express train “Fuji Excursion,” which departs from Shinjuku Station and reaches Kawaguchiko Station in just 1 hour and 53 minutes. Tickets, including seat reservations, cost 4,130 yen. The train runs three round trips daily and offers a direct, stress-free journey.
1-3. Rental Car
Rental cars can be booked for approximately 4,000–8,000 yen per day for budget options, while standard rentals cost around 10,000 yen per day, excluding fuel.
The main advantage of using a rental car is the flexibility it provides, allowing you to visit not only Mount Fuji but also other attractions like Lake Kawaguchi or Lake Yamanaka that may be harder to access by public transport. You can also drive up the Subaru Line to reach the 5th Station of Mount Fuji. For those who seek more freedom in their travel plans, renting a car is an ideal choice.
1-4. Helicopter
For a unique and luxurious experience, you can travel between Tokyo and Mount Fuji by helicopter.
A helicopter flight from Tokyo Heliport to Fuji Oshino Heliport takes approximately 45 minutes, offering breathtaking aerial views of Mount Fuji along the way. This exclusive option is perfect for special occasions or events.
Once you arrive at Fuji Oshino Heliport, you can continue to Mount Fuji via local buses.
2. Tips for Traveling from Tokyo to Mount Fuji
Visiting Mount Fuji can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many travelers. However, proper planning is essential to ensure a smooth trip.
2-1. Check Your Climbing Route if Hiking
Mount Fuji has four main climbing routes: Yoshida, Subashiri, Gotemba, and Fujinomiya. Each route differs in terms of natural environment, elevation changes, and trail conditions.
Yoshida Route:
The most popular and well-maintained route, suitable for beginners. It has many mountain huts along the way.
Subashiri Route:
A quieter trail known for its scenic surroundings. It features a unique “sandslide” descent.
Gotemba Route:
A more challenging route with significant elevation changes and rocky sections, recommended for experienced hikers.
Fujinomiya Route:
The shortest route to the summit, but steeper and rockier than Yoshida.
Access to the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station on the Yoshida Route offers several options for those using public transportation.
You can take the Fuji climbing bus from Kawaguchiko Station or Fuji-San Station.Additionally, shuttle buses are available from Fuji Parking (Yamanashi Prefectural Fuji Hokuroku Parking Lot).
Direct highway buses operate from Shinjuku Station during the summer season, as well as from other locations such as Yokohama Station, Center Kita Station, Tama-Plaza Station, and Ichigao Station. Outside the Kanto region, highway buses are also available from cities such as Nagoya, Osaka, Kyoto, and Takayama.
For those traveling by car, you can access the Fuji Subaru Line via the Kawaguchiko IC on the Chuo Expressway or the Fujiyoshida IC on the Higashi-Fuji-Goko Road. However, during peak seasons, private car restrictions may be enforced, making it impossible to drive on the Fuji Subaru Line. Be sure to check for these regulations in advance.
2-2.Compare Travel Times and Costs
Various transportation options are available when traveling from Tokyo to Mount Fuji, each with different travel times and costs.
| Mode of Transport | Travel Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Highway Bus | Approx. 2 hrs | From 2,100 yen |
| Train | Approx. 3 hrs (2 hrs by express) | From 2,690 yen |
| Rental Car | Approx. 2 hrs | Around 10,000 yen/day |
| Helicopter | Approx. 45 mins | Price varies by tour company |
Using tools like Google Maps allows you to compare travel times and costs for trains, buses, and cars conveniently.
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3.Must-Visit Attractions Around Mount Fuji
The Mount Fuji area boasts many attractive destinations, including the Fuji Five Lakes, which offer diverse scenic views. Here are three carefully selected spots:
3-1.Lake Yamanaka
Lake Yamanaka, the largest of the Fuji Five Lakes, is a popular spot for enjoying beautiful views of Mount Fuji. The area features cycling paths and walking trails, and seasonal activities including canoeing and boating are also available.
In autumn, the stunning contrast between fall foliage and Mount Fuji draws many visitors.
3-2.Fuji Safari Park
Fuji Safari Park is one of Japan’s largest wildlife parks, where you can observe lions, tigers, and other animals up close. The safari zone lets visitors explore in their own vehicles or on specialized buses, providing a closer look at animals living in naturalistic habitats.
The “Fureai Zone” (Interaction Zone) offers opportunities to pet animals like capybaras and meerkats, making it enjoyable for all ages. Nighttime safaris provide a chance to see animals’ nocturnal behaviors.
3-3.Fuji-Q Highland
Fuji-Q Highland is a thrilling amusement park set against the backdrop of Mount Fuji. Known for its adrenaline-pumping rides like “Eejanaika” and “Dodonpa,” it’s perfect for thrill-seekers.
The park also features family-friendly zones and character-themed attractions, making it popular among visitors of all ages.
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Conclusion
When traveling from Tokyo to Mount Fuji, highway buses, express trains, or rental cars are recommended options. Don’t forget to check for weather conditions, congestion, and seasonal restrictions such as private car bans on the Subaru Line.
The Mount Fuji area offers a wide range of attractions, which include natural beauty spots like Lake Yamanaka, in addition to fun-filled destinations like Fuji Safari Park and Fuji-Q Highland. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities or amusement, the region has something for everyone.
*This article is based on information available as of December 2024.
