Tokyo to Mount Fuji: A One-Day Itinerary Including the 5th Station, Oshino Hakkai, and Tenjoyama Park
While in the midst of the urban hustle and bustle, I can see Mount Fuji in the distance. This might be a privilege for Tokyo residents like me.
On clear days, Mount Fuji peeks out between high-rise buildings, and its silhouette shining alongside Tokyo Tower at dusk provides solace to Tokyo locals caught up in their busy daily lives.
But to be honest, I felt a dilemma of "I can see it, but I can't go there." Caught up in work every day, I had convinced myself that "A trip to Mount Fuji is only possible when I can take plenty of time off."
However, one weekend, I decided to take a day trip to Mount Fuji. What I discovered was Mount Fuji's charm, which was more accessible than I had imagined and surprisingly diverse.
When I left Shinjuku in the morning and stood at the 5th Station, I could feel a completely different fresh air compared to when I was in Tokyo.
Then, the reflection of Mount Fuji on the water surface at Oshino Hakkai. The view of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi at dusk from Tenjoyama Park. All of these are a series of sceneries that I can't experience in Tokyo.
What surprised me even more was that I could return to Tokyo on the same day. I could sleep in my own bed at night. This gap between the "extraordinary" and the "ordinary" further enhances the fulfillment of the trip.
Of course, there's not enough time to climb to the summit. But the charm of Mount Fuji isn't just about the summit. In fact, the view of Mount Fuji from the foot of the mountain often matches the images in famous paintings and photographs more closely.
In this article, I'll introduce plenty of the charms of Mount Fuji that I've discovered through multiple visits, which can be enjoyed on a one-day trip from Tokyo, in a way that foreign tourists can enjoy too!
Table of Contents
・The Charm of Mount Fuji
・How to Access Mount Fuji from Tokyo
・Itinerary: A One-Day Trip from Tokyo to Mount Fuji
・Other Spots to Visit on a Day Trip to Mount Fuji
・Frequently Asked Questions About a Day Trip to Mount Fuji from Tokyo
The Charm of Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is an iconic landscape of Japan and a source of national pride registered as a World Heritage site. Its majestic figure continues to fascinate not only Japanese people but people from all over the world.
When I was living in Tokyo, my heart would leap every time I caught a glimpse of Mount Fuji. Its beauty in each season is exceptional - the contrast of cherry blossoms and Mount Fuji in spring, the mountain slopes wrapped in deep green in summer, the foothills colored with autumn leaves in fall, and the pure white snow cover in winter - its appearance changes moment by moment.
Mount Fuji is also popular as a venue for various activities. It's not only great for mountain climbing and trekking but also as a spot for photography.
Through this trip, I hope you'll be able to fully experience the charm of Mount Fuji.
How to Access Mount Fuji from Tokyo
Access from Tokyo to Mount Fuji is easier than you might think. Based on my experience of using it many times, I'll introduce some convenient methods.
The most recommended way is to use the Fuji Kyuko Bus from Shinjuku Station. It takes about 2-3 hours to reach the Mount Fuji area. The travel time varies depending on which station you get off at, but the big attraction is being able to view Mount Fuji from the bus window. I always looked forward to this view from the window every time.
Another method is to move from Tokyo Station to Shinjuku Station on the JR Chuo Line, and from there take the limited express Fuji Excursion to Fuji Station. Traveling by train is also enjoyable for the scenery, so it's recommended for railway enthusiasts.
If you're going by car, it takes about 2 hours using the highway. I've also gone with friends by car, and the charm is being able to make stops freely. However, be aware of traffic jams during tourist seasons.
Also, tour buses with English-speaking guides are popular. My foreign friends have given good reviews, saying they enjoyed being able to go around with commentary.
Itinerary: A One-Day Trip from Tokyo to Mount Fuji
This itinerary is based on my experience of visiting multiple times, structured to be the most efficient and attractive route. It's a day from early morning to night where you can fully enjoy the charms of the Mount Fuji area.
6:45 AM - 9:20 AM Depart from Busta Shinjuku - Arrive at Mount Fuji 5th Station
Early morning in Shinjuku, my heart races with anticipation for the adventure about to begin. I love this moment every time. The journey to Mount Fuji begins as I board the Fuji Kyuko Bus from Busta Shinjuku.
From inside the bus, you can view the figure of Mount Fuji gradually approaching.
I recommend making bus reservations online in advance from the website below. However, the site is only in Japanese, so using the translation function of browsers like Chrome is convenient. This is the method I recommend when teaching my foreign friends as well.
Website: https://www.fujikyu-travel.co.jp/free5/bus.html
9:20 AM - 11:30 AM Sightseeing at Mount Fuji 5th Station
After about a two-and-a-half-hour comfortable journey, we finally arrive at the 5th Station of Mount Fuji.
The 5th Station is the gateway to Mount Fuji sightseeing. The view from here is spectacular. I still can't forget the excitement I felt when I first visited.
Here, I recommend hiking the Ochudo trail. I've walked it with friends before, and it's a wonderful experience to feel the majestic nature of Mount Fuji up close.
Visiting the Komitake Shrine is also a good opportunity to experience Japanese culture. The view from the shrine is also wonderful and popular as a photo spot.
There are many souvenir shops at the 5th Station. For lunch, I recommend enjoying "Houtou" at the restaurant "Fujisan Miharashi."
Houtou is a local dish of Yamanashi Prefecture, where flat noodles and vegetables are stewed in a miso-based soup. I've eaten it several times, and it warms the body and is perfect after mountain walking.
Time at the 5th Station passes quickly, but you should be able to fully enjoy the grandeur of Mount Fuji and the beauty of Japanese nature.
Website: http://www.fujisan5.com/
11:45 AM - 1:15 PM Move to Oshino Hakkai by Bus
We head to our next destination, Oshino Hakkai. Move to Kawaguchiko Station by bus, then take another bus and get off at the "Oshino Hakkai" stop.
This travel time is also an excellent opportunity to enjoy the scenery of Mount Fuji and its surroundings from the bus window. I always liked to sit by the window during this time and watch the changing scenery.
The bus transfer might feel a bit complicated, but Japanese public transportation is very accurate, and you should be able to move smoothly. If you have any trouble, try asking station staff or locals. Japanese people are kind, and even if there's a language barrier, they'll try to help you somehow.
It's also good to use this travel time to prepare for our next destination, Oshino Hakkai. I remember being excited when I heard it was a mystical place where Mount Fuji's underground water springs forth.
1:15 PM - 2:30 PM Explore Oshino Hakkai and Oshino Village
Oshino Hakkai is a mystical place where you can tour eight ponds where Mount Fuji's underground water springs forth.
Each of the eight ponds has a name, and you can tour them along a set route.
The scenery of Oshino Village is also a wonderful place to enjoy the atmosphere of an old Japanese settlement. Thatched-roof houses and other features spread out like a scene from a time slip. I enjoyed the original landscape of Japan while walking slowly with friends.
The time spent at Oshino Hakkai will be a special experience where you can fully enjoy the blessings of Mount Fuji and the traditional Japanese landscape. For me, the time spent here always becomes a major highlight of the trip.
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Move to Tenjoyama Park
After spending a quiet time at Oshino Hakkai, we head to Tenjoyama Park. Move from the Oshino Hakkai bus stop to Kawaguchiko Station by bus, then walk to the ropeway station.
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM Enjoy the Spectacular View at Tenjoyama Park
Tenjoyama Park, as its name suggests, is a place where you can enjoy heavenly scenery. When you arrive at the summit after riding the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway, a breathtaking view spreads out before you.
When I first visited here, I was at a loss for words at the beauty of the panoramic view of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi. On a clear day, you can see the figure of Mount Fuji clearly, and its grandeur is overwhelming.
The view from the observation deck shows various expressions depending on the season and time of day. I remember when I visited in autumn, the contrast between the mountains colored with autumn leaves and Mount Fuji was particularly beautiful. Also, if you visit at dusk, the view of the sunset sinking into Mount Fuji is exceptional.
This is the perfect place to take commemorative photos with Mount Fuji in the background. I also took many photos with my friends. Every time I look at those photos, wonderful memories come flooding back.
The time spent at Tenjoyama Park becomes the climax of this trip. Please enjoy the grandeur of Mount Fuji and the beauty of Japanese nature to your heart's content.
4:30 PM - 7:00 PM Return to Shinjuku (Tokyo)
To conclude this wonderful day, we head back to Tokyo. Return to Kawaguchiko Station by ropeway, then take a bus bound for Busta Shinjuku.
From the bus, you can view the silhouette of Mount Fuji at dusk.
Once back in Tokyo, I recommend having dinner in Shinjuku. My favorite is enjoying traditional Japanese cuisine at an izakaya in Shinjuku. Toasting with delicious food and drinks after a day of adventure is the perfect way to end the day.
Other Spots to Visit on a Day Trip to Mount Fuji
There are many attractive spots around Mount Fuji besides the 5th Station, Oshino Hakkai, and Tenjoyama Park. For those who have extra time or want to visit on another occasion, I'd like to introduce places that I particularly recommend.
Fuji-Q Highland
Source: Google Map by Suica
Fuji-Q Highland is a theme park with Mount Fuji as a backdrop, popular for its thrilling attractions.
It boasts some of the world's largest roller coasters and scream machines, making it irresistible for adrenaline junkies. Especially from the roller coaster called "FUJIYAMA," you can enjoy the luxurious experience of viewing Mount Fuji from near the top.
Moreover, the charm of Fuji-Q Highland isn't just about the attractions. There are many spots where you can take photos with Mount Fuji in the background, so it's also recommended for those aiming for social media-worthy pictures.
Furthermore, Fuji-Q Highland is less affected by weather compared to mountain climbing, so it's also ideal as an alternative plan for days when Mount Fuji isn't visible. Even on rainy days, you can enjoy indoor attractions.
Website: https://www.fujiq.jp/en/
Fuji Sengen Shrine
Fuji Sengen Shrine is a historic shrine that enshrines the guardian deity of Mount Fuji. I remember being overwhelmed by its solemn atmosphere when I first visited this shrine.
Particularly impressive is the sacred tree that is over 1000 years old. Its enormous figure tells the story of the passage of time and the power of nature.
Fuji Sengen Shrine is also popular as a power spot. Many people visit this shrine to feel the spiritual power of Mount Fuji. I myself felt a strange sense of purification after worshiping.
Website: https://www.sengenjinja.jp/
Lake Yamanaka
Lake Yamanaka is the highest in altitude among the Fuji Five Lakes and is known for its particularly beautiful view of Mount Fuji.
The charm of Lake Yamanaka is that it shows various expressions depending on the season. In spring, the contrast between the cherry blossoms on the lakeside and Mount Fuji creates a spectacular view. What I particularly like is the autumn scenery. The contrast between the autumn-colored trees and Mount Fuji is indescribably beautiful.
Another attractive point is that museums and leisure facilities are scattered around Lake Yamanaka. For example, at Yamanaka Lake Literature Forest Park, you can stroll through gardens inspired by Japanese literary works.
Also, at Yamanaka Lake Flower Park, you can enjoy different flowers each season, and the experience of walking through flower fields with Mount Fuji in the background is exceptional.
Frequently Asked Questions About a Day Trip to Mount Fuji from Tokyo
Finally, I'll answer common questions that travelers often have about day trips to Mount Fuji.
Is There Time to Climb Mount Fuji?
Unfortunately, it's impossible to climb to the summit of Mount Fuji on a day trip. Summit climbing requires at least two days and one night, and thorough preparation is necessary.
However, access to the 5th Station is possible. I've been to the 5th Station several times, and the view from there is sufficiently wonderful. You can enjoy alpine plants and unique landscapes.
Climbing Mount Fuji can be a great experience, but it's important not to take it lightly and to prepare adequately. While you can't climb to the summit on a day trip, you can still feel the charm of Mount Fuji with a tour up to the 5th Station.
When is the Best Season for Mount Fuji Sightseeing?
Mount Fuji has beauty in all four seasons, and you can have a wonderful experience no matter when you visit. However, each season has its characteristics, so it's good to choose according to your preferences and purposes. Based on my experience, I'll introduce the charms of each season.
・Spring (April to May): This is the season when the contrast between cherry blossoms and Mount Fuji is beautiful. It's one of my favorite seasons. The combination of cherry blossoms blooming around Lake Kawaguchi and Mount Fuji is spectacular. Also, the temperature is comfortable and it's an easy season for sightseeing. However, be careful of crowds during Golden Week (late April to early May).
・Summer (July to September): This is the climbing season when the Mount Fuji area is most lively. This is the only time you can climb to the summit. However, it gets very crowded and temperatures are high, so you need to be careful about managing your physical condition.
・Autumn (October to November): This is the season when the combination of autumn leaves and Mount Fuji is spectacular. Especially the autumn leaves around Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Shoji are breathtakingly beautiful. Also, the temperature is comfortable and it's an easy season for sightseeing. However, it gets crowded on weekends during the peak autumn foliage period.
・Winter (December to February): This is the season when you can see Mount Fuji covered in snow. Also, there are relatively fewer tourists during this period, so you can enjoy Mount Fuji quietly. However, protection against the cold is essential, and you need to be careful about road conditions.
Each season has different charms, so it's best to visit multiple times. I myself have enjoyed the diverse expressions of Mount Fuji by visiting in different seasons. Choose the best season for you based on your preferences and schedule.
What Should Foreign Visitors Be Careful About When Sightseeing at Mount Fuji?
There are several points that foreign visitors should be careful about when sightseeing at Mount Fuji. From my experience of guiding foreign friends, I feel the following points are particularly important.
・Be aware of altitude sickness: Especially when going above the 5th Station, there's a risk of altitude sickness. Even my friends experienced mild symptoms. Move slowly and make sure to stay hydrated. If symptoms appear, it's important to descend without pushing yourself.
・Respect Japanese public manners: Taking your trash with you is a must. Don't litter.
・Treat it as a sacred place: Mount Fuji is a sacred mountain for Japanese people. Behave respectfully, especially in places where there are shrines or small shrines.
・Prepare appropriate shoes: Even in paved tourist areas, it's important to choose comfortable walking shoes.
A one-day trip to Mount Fuji from Tokyo is a wonderful opportunity to experience Japan's iconic landscape and rich culture in a single day. This itinerary, departing from Shinjuku and touring Mount Fuji's 5th Station, Oshino Hakkai, and Tenjoyama Park, is designed to fully savor the diverse charms of Mount Fuji.
I hope that those who read this article will be able to fully feel the charm of Mount Fuji. Through this trip, I sincerely hope that you too will be fascinated by the charm of Mount Fuji, gain a deeper understanding of Japan as a country, and come to love it!
