Mt Fuji is about 100 kilometres west of Tokyo, and most visitors go to see it from Lake Kawaguchiko, at the mountain's northern foot. The simplest way is a direct highway bus from Shinjuku, which takes about two hours. A direct train, the Fuji Excursion, also runs from Shinjuku in about the same time. Both make a day trip possible, though a night by the lake gives you a much better chance of a clear view.
By highway bus
Buses leave the Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal for Kawaguchiko Station about once or twice an hour, and take around two hours when the roads are clear. Buses also run from Tokyo Station and Shibuya. Seats are reserved, so book ahead for weekends and holidays, when traffic can also add an hour to the journey.
By train
- Fuji Excursion — a limited express that runs direct from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko in about two hours, a few times a day. All seats are reserved.
- Via Otsuki — take a JR Chuo line limited express to Otsuki and change to the Fujikyu Railway. The Japan Rail Pass covers the JR part only.
Other ways to see Fuji
- Hakone. The hot-spring area south-east of the mountain has Fuji views from Lake Ashi on clear days; see our 2-day Hakone itinerary.
- The 5th Station. Buses climb from Kawaguchiko to the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station, about 2,300 metres up, when the road is open.
- From the shinkansen. The mountain is visible from the right-hand side of the train between Tokyo and Kyoto.
- A guided day tour. Coach tours from Tokyo combine the lake, a viewpoint and often Hakone in one day, with no changes to make.
Tips
- Go early. The mountain is clearest in the early morning and often hidden by cloud by midday.
- Check the forecast. If it is cloudy, move the trip to another day if you can.
- Climbing is different. The climbing season runs only from early July to early September, with entry rules and fees on the main trail.
Our guides to the best time to see Mt Fuji and the Fuji Five Lakes help you plan the visit.
FAQ
How long does it take from Tokyo to Mt Fuji? About two hours by direct highway bus or Fuji Excursion train from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko.
Can I visit Mt Fuji as a day trip from Tokyo? Yes. Leave early, and remember the view depends on the weather. Staying one night improves your chances.
Does the Japan Rail Pass cover the trip to Kawaguchiko? Only the JR section to Otsuki. The Fujikyu Railway from Otsuki to Kawaguchiko is a private line.
Is the bus or the train better? The bus is cheaper and more frequent. The train is not affected by traffic, which matters on weekends and holidays.
Planning a Mt Fuji trip for yourself, your family or your clients? Write to b2b@explera.jp or message us on WhatsApp at +66 93 656 8090 with your dates and group size, and we will reply within 24 hours. Explera is a destination management company for Japan — IATA TIDS 96215733, ASTA member 900408341.
