Ultimate Guide of Mt. Fuji Walking Tours: Check List of walking tours details
Mount Fuji, situated on the border between Yamanashi Prefecture and Shizuoka Prefecture, is renowned as a symbol of Japan for its breathtaking beauty. In 2013, it was designated as a World Heritage Site under the name "Mount Fuji: Object of Faith and Source of Art." The mountain attracts both domestic and international tourists throughout the week, regardless of whether it's a weekday or holiday.
While climbing Mount Fuji, Japan's highest peak, might seem challenging, did you know that there are routes specifically designed for beginners? Additionally, there are guided tours led by Mount Fuji climbing experts, making it more accessible even for those inexperienced in mountain climbing! In this article, we'll introduce recommended walking tours that offer safe climbing experiences and visits to prime spots for viewing Mount Fuji's spectacular scenery.
Walking Tours Around Mount Fuji: Enjoy Safe Climbing and Scenic Viewing with Peace of Mind
For those who want to challenge Mount Fuji but aren't confident about their physical strength or leg power, exploring the areas around Mount Fuji is highly recommended. Particularly, Mount Fuji walking tours offer a safe way to enjoy both hiking and scenic viewing experiences.
Accompanied by guides who are experts in Mount Fuji climbing, you'll learn everything about the mountain's basic information and unmissable points, ensuring you don't miss any of Mount Fuji's charms. After completing the tour, you'll not only feel a sense of achievement but will likely find yourself falling even more in love with Mount Fuji.
From here, we'll introduce five tours where you can safely enjoy climbing Mount Fuji with professional guides.
5 Tours to Safely Enjoy Climbing Mt. Fuji with Professional Guides
FUJI MOUNTAIN GUIDES
In Season 2 Day Mt. Fuji Tour
Source: Official website
FUJI MOUNTAIN GUIDES (FMG) is a guided tour company established in 2007, specializing in Mt. Fuji walking tours. The company has gained popularity among travelers after being featured as an "excellent tour" in the world-renowned Lonely Planet and appearing in National Geographic's "World Heritage Access 360."
Among their various offerings, the In Season 2 Day Mt. Fuji Tour is their most popular option. This Mt. Fuji walking tour operates from late June to early September, allowing visitors to fully experience climbing Mt. Fuji during the summer climbing season over two days.
On Day 1, participants meet either at Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Station (Tochoueki) or Gotemba Station (Gotenbaeki) and begin climbing from the 5th station. The tour takes a leisurely pace along the Tsubashiri trail from 2000m altitude, culminating in dinner (curry rice) and overnight stay at a mountain hut at around 3400m. On Day 2, hikers depart before dawn, climbing for about an hour in darkness to reach the summit for sunrise. After witnessing the spectacular sunrise and having breakfast, the group begins their descent.
This all-inclusive package covers transportation from Tokyo, meals, and accommodation, making it ideal for first-time Mt. Fuji climbers.
<Meeting point>
• Tour area: Mt. Fuji
• Start time: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Station 6:45 AM, Gotemba Station 9:00 AM (optional)
Off Season 2 Day Mt. Fuji Tour
Source: Official website
The Off Season 2 Day Mt. Fuji Tour operates until early October, following the in-season tour period, offering a relaxed Mt. Fuji walking experience over two days during the off-season.
Day 1 begins with meeting at either Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Station or Gotemba Station, followed by lunch at the 5th station before starting the climb. The tour proceeds along the Tsubashiri route from 2000m altitude, with dinner (hamburger steak, rice, and pork soup) and overnight stay at a mountain hut around 3000m. On Day 2, after waking up at dawn and having breakfast, participants take a leisurely 3-4 hour climb to the summit. Upon reaching the peak, there's time for commemorative photos and celebration before beginning the descent.
This tour is perfect for those who prefer a less crowded climbing experience, as there are fewer climbers after mid-September during the off-season.
<Meeting point>
• Tour area: Mt. Fuji
• Start time: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Station 8:00 AM, Gotemba Station 10:30 AM (optional)
2-Day Mt. Fuji Climbing Private Tour - Gotemba Trail (Prince Route)
Source: Official website
The 2-Day Mt. Fuji Climbing Private Tour via the Gotemba Trail (Prince Route) offers an exciting two-day hiking experience along the same route challenged in 2008 by the Crown Prince, who became Emperor in 2019. The Gotemba Trail, designed for advanced climbers, offers the attractive benefit of a peaceful climbing experience with fewer crowds.
On day one, your Mt. Fuji walking tour begins with a meetup at the 5th station. You'll enjoy hiking while taking in spectacular views of the Hoei Crater (formed by the 1707 eruption), Suruga Bay, Sagami Bay, and the dramatic landscapes of the Izu Peninsula. The first day concludes with dinner and overnight accommodation at a mountain hut at the 7th station, situated at an elevation of 3,300 meters. On the second day, you'll start before dawn to reach the summit while witnessing a beautiful sunrise.
After spending about an hour at the summit capturing amazing photos, you'll begin your descent. As an optional activity, you can experience the "Ohachimeguri" (clockwise circuit around the summit crater).
The Gotemba Trail is recommended for those with good physical stamina and leg strength due to its advanced nature and longer duration.
<Meeting point>
- Tour area: Mt. Fuji
- Start times: Available every 30 minutes from 2:30 to 23:00
Private and Custom Mt. Fuji Climbs
Source: Official website
Private and Custom Mt. Fuji Climbs offers Mt. Fuji walking tours with personal support from experienced guides. Being completely private, you can take on the challenge of climbing Mt. Fuji in a relaxed atmosphere with just your close friends, family, or colleagues.
I personally participated in this tour with friends. Even though some of them were first-time climbers, we all successfully reached the summit thanks to the guide's meticulous care and attention. The two-day climbing plan included arrangements for accommodations and meals, eliminating the need for troublesome preparations and ensuring a comfortable tour experience!
At the summit, we were thrilled to receive a handmade "Mt. Fuji Summit Certificate" from our guide. This tour is highly recommended for groups wanting to enjoy a Mt. Fuji climbing experience without any concerns.
<Meeting point>
- Tour area: Mt. Fuji
3 Selected Historical Walking Tours to Explore Mt. Fuji and Its Natural Surroundings
Here are 3 selected historical walking tours to explore Mt. Fuji and its surrounding nature.
Private Historical Trail Hiking Tour of Mt. Fuji
Source: Viator
The Private Historical Trail Hiking Tour of Mt. Fuji allows you to enjoy the magnificence of Mt. Fuji without climbing to its summit. The 2.5-mile trail features a gentle slope that's easy to walk, offering a pleasant 2-hour stroll while admiring pine trees, Mt. Fuji's peak, and views of the Fuji area below.
Lunch is served at "Okutei-so," a mountain hut with traditional Japanese ambiance. You can choose from Japanese dishes such as tempura, udon, or soba noodles. The area around Okutei-so is also known as an excellent birdwatching spot, so on clear days, why not observe the local bird species?
This tour is perfect for those who want to enjoy Mt. Fuji at a leisurely pace through walking rather than climbing.
<Meeting point>
・Tour area: Mt. Fuji
・Start time: 8:30
thousandth Ecotours
Source: Official website
thousandth Ecotours offers multiple tours to enjoy Mt. Fuji and its foothills.
Available Tours:
・Sato Hut × thousand
・Kiwa Taxi × thousandth
・Fujiko Experience
・Mt. Fuji Foothills Trekking
・Mt. Fuji Short Hiking
・Fujimichi Walk
・Wine Activity
My recommended tour is the Sato Hut × thousand. You can enjoy an off-season mountain hut stay at Sato Hut, the only mountain hut operating during winter on Mt. Fuji.
On day one, gather at Fuji Station and after visiting Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, begin climbing from the mountain base. Upon arriving at Sato Hut at the 5th station in the evening, enjoy dinner, stargazing, and handmade s'mores. On the second morning, take a walk to the 6th station to see the sunrise. The mystical sunrise view will surely wake you up! After breakfast, begin your descent.
I have personally participated in this tour. The mountain hut is full of traditional atmosphere and warmth, offering a precious experience unavailable at hotels. It's highly recommended for those who want to feel winter Mt. Fuji up close and enjoy a unique accommodation experience.
<Meeting point>
・Tour area: Mt. Fuji
・Start time: 9:00
Mt. Fuji Tours with Kawaguchi Lake Ropeway View English Speaking
Source: Viator
Mt. Fuji Tours with Kawaguchi Lake Ropeway View English Speaking is a tour departing from Tokyo that offers scenic views of the Fuji area and traditional Japanese cultural experiences.
At Lake Kawaguchi, you'll ride the Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway to enjoy ever-changing spectacular views. The arrival station with its observation deck is situated at an elevation of 1,075 meters, offering a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi. When I saw the view from the observation deck, I was left speechless by its sheer beauty. On clear days, you can even see Lake Ashi (Akaashinoko) and the Southern Alps (Minami Alps).
Along the shores of Lake Kawaguchi, you can freely explore the area or experience a matcha tea ceremony. By preparing matcha (mixing powdered green tea with hot water) with a professional instructor, you'll be immersed in the world of Japanese culture.
<Meeting Point>
- Tour Area: Fuji Area
- Start Time: Not specified
Two Walking Tours to Enjoy Spectacular Views of Mt. Fuji with a Guide
Here are two walking tours where you can enjoy magnificent views of Mt. Fuji with a guide.
Mt Fuji Day Trip with Private English Speaking Driver from Tokyo
Source: Tripadvisor
Mt Fuji Day Trip with Private English Speaking Driver from Tokyo efficiently takes you to various tourist spots around Mt. Fuji by minivan. As a full-day private tour, you can customize the recommended route.
After meeting in Tokyo, you'll visit popular tourist destinations in the Fuji area.
Tourist attractions included in the tour:
- Oshino Hakkai (Eight Ponds)
- Chureito Pagoda
- Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway
- Oishi Park
- Lake Kawaguchi
- Gotemba Premium Outlets
My recommended spot is Oshino Hakkai. These eight spring water ponds were formed by Mt. Fuji's snowmelt water flowing in over decades following volcanic eruptions, and they're selected as one of Japan's 100 Best Spring Waters. Each pond has incredibly high clarity and transparency, creating a mystical atmosphere that captivates visitors. When I gazed into the ponds, I felt my mind being cleansed and lost track of time.
With round-trip transportation from Tokyo available, this tour is perfect for those who want to take a day trip while sightseeing in Tokyo.
<Meeting Point>
- Tour Area: Mt. Fuji Area
- Start Time: 8:00 Tokyo
Mt Fuji Area Private Guided Tours in English-Nature up close, quiet, personal
Source: Tripadvisor
Experience the breathtaking scenery of the Fuji area, including Mt. Fuji walking tours, lakes, forests, waterfalls, and shrines through our intimate guided experience.
The tour begins with a drive around Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Sai, stopping at must-see viewpoints dominated by Mt. Fuji. At Sengen Shrine, capture perfect photos featuring both Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi. The shrine grounds house a magnificent cedar tree over 1,200 years old, and nearby you can visit the sacred Mother's White Waterfall (Hahanoshirataki). The journey continues to Oishi Park, Wild Bird Forest Park, and the nationally designated natural monument Ryugu Cave (Ryuguudouketsu), concluding with a spectacular sunset view at either Lake Shoji (Shoujiko), Lake Sai, or Lake Kawaguchi.
This tour is ideal for those seeking a relaxing experience with nature, offering numerous spots where you can get up close with the natural environment around Mt. Fuji.
Meeting Point:
- Tour Area: Mt. Fuji
- Start Time: Not specified
Private Tours from Tokyo: Combine City Sightseeing with Mt. Fuji Adventures
Private tours departing from Tokyo allow you to enjoy both city attractions and Mt. Fuji's majestic beauty.
These private tours are highly rated for their flexibility, letting you focus on your interests and adjust the itinerary according to your preferences. The convenience of guide pickup from your Tokyo hotel or easily accessible stations makes transportation hassle-free.
Why not experience the cutting-edge excitement of Tokyo while easily accessing the natural wonders of Mt. Fuji?
Private Sightseeing to Mt Fuji and Hakone GREEN NUMBER PLATES
Source: Viator
This day trip from Tokyo covers eight major attractions:
- Mt. Fuji 5th Station
- Lake Kawaguchi
- Lake Ashi
- Oshino Hakkai
- Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine
- Arakurayama Sengen Park
- Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba
- Owakudani Valley (Oowakudanienchi)
A highlight is the pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi, offering views of Mt. Fuji, Hakone Shrine (Hakonejinja), and the famous "floating" torii gate (Suichutorii). The ship, modeled after medieval European battleships, is popular for photography with its impressive design. The cruise experience is enhanced by 3D art and pirate-themed decorations inside the vessel, making the journey pass quickly.
As a private tour, the itinerary can be customized to your interests. Don't hesitate to discuss spending extra time at locations that intrigue you with your guide!
Meeting Point:
- Tour Area: Hakone/Fuji Area
- Start Time: 8:30
Private Mt Fuji Tour from Tokyo: Scenic BBQ and Hidden Gems
Source: Viator
The Private Mt Fuji Tour from Tokyo: Scenic BBQ and Hidden Gems is a day trip from Tokyo that combines sightseeing in the Fuji area with a BBQ lunch. While the tour features six main attractions, the itinerary can be customized based on your interests and season. Perfect for those who enjoy Mt. Fuji walking tours, this experience includes visits to:
• Mt. Fuji
• BBQ lunch at Lake Motosu (Mototsuko)
• Shiraito Falls
• Lake Kawaguchi
• Aokigahara Forest (Aokigaharajukai)
• Shinkulayama Asama Park
My top recommendation is the BBQ lunch at Lake Motosu, which was once featured on the reverse side of the 1000-yen note and is renowned as a popular spot for viewing Mt. Fuji. The relaxing lakeside BBQ experience, combined with breathtaking views, is truly unique to this location. You'll definitely want to show off your photos to friends back home!
The tour is led by knowledgeable local guides who will introduce you to lesser-known Fuji attractions condensed into one day. It's perfect for travelers seeking an in-depth exploration of the Fuji area, complementing traditional Mt. Fuji walking tours with unique perspectives of the region.
<Meeting Point>
• Tour Area: Fuji Region
• Start Time: Tokyo 9:00 AM, Yamanashi 10:30 AM