Tokyo Day Guides
A day trip to Mount Fuji is one of the best ways to see Japan’s natural beauty. Whether you’re admiring the iconic peak from a scenic lake, taking a ropeway up for breathtaking views, or relaxing in an onsen, this trip is a refreshing escape from the city. This guide will help you plan the perfect visit to one of Japan’s most famous landmarks.
Option 1: Fujikyu Railway (Fastest Route)
Take the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station to Otsuki Station.
Transfer to the Fujikyu Railway and take a train to Kawaguchiko Station.
Total Travel Time: About 2 hours
Option 2: Highway Bus (Cheaper Option)
Direct highway buses from Shinjuku Bus Terminal to Kawaguchiko Station.
Total Travel Time: About 2 hours
Traveler’s Tip: Try to sit on the right side of the train for the best Mount Fuji views on clear days!
Walking Distance: 15 minutes from Shimoyoshida Station (one stop before Kawaguchiko).
Entrance Fee: Free
✔ Climb about 400 steps to reach the pagoda and viewing deck.
✔ Take stunning photos of Fuji framed by cherry blossoms (spring) or red maple leaves (autumn).
✔ Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Arakura Sengen Shrine nearby.
After your visit to Chureito Pagoda, take a break at a local café in Fujiyoshida before heading to Lake Kawaguchi.
Moose Hills Burger Café – A cozy café with homemade burgers and great coffee.
Fujiyama Cookie – Offers delicious Mt. Fuji-shaped cookies and tea.
Café & Dining Gekko (Vegan Option) – Serves plant-based meals, coffee, and desserts.
Travel Time: 10-minute bus ride from Kawaguchiko Station
✔ Walk along the lake and enjoy Fuji’s reflection on calm waters.
✔ Take the Kachi Kachi Ropeway for a panoramic view from Mt. Tenjo.
✔ Rent a bike to cycle along the lake’s scenic paths.
✔ Visit the Kubota Itchiku Art Museum, famous for its stunning kimono collection.
✔ Stop by Oishi Park, known for seasonal flowers and Fuji views.
After exploring Lake Kawaguchi, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.
Houtou Fudou – Famous for Houtou noodles, a local specialty with thick flat noodles in miso soup.
Sanrokuen – A traditional irori (charcoal grill) restaurant where you can cook your own food.
T’s Star Diner (Vegan Option) – A fully plant-based restaurant serving Japanese-style curry and burgers.
Travel Time: 30-minute bus ride from Kawaguchiko Station
Oshino Hakkai is a beautiful traditional village known for its crystal-clear spring ponds, traditional houses, and Fuji views.
✔ Stroll through the village and see the eight sacred ponds with pure snowmelt from Mount Fuji.
✔ Visit the Hannoki Bayashi Museum, a thatched-roof house showcasing Edo-period artifacts.
✔ Try local grilled fish, fresh wasabi, and Japanese sweets at food stalls.
Distance: 10-minute walk from Kawaguchiko Station.
Round Trip Ticket: About 900 yen
The Kachi Kachi Ropeway takes you to the Mount Tenjo observation deck, offering one of the best views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding lakes.
✔ Ride the cable car up to the observation deck.
✔ Try traditional tanuki (raccoon dog) and rabbit-themed treats at the top.
✔ Enjoy hiking trails connecting to Mount Mitsutoge.
If you have time before heading back, consider visiting a hot spring (onsen) for a relaxing soak while admiring Mount Fuji.
Yurari Onsen – Features outdoor baths with direct views of Mount Fuji.
Benifuji no Yu – A scenic onsen with indoor and outdoor baths.
Fujiyama Onsen – A luxurious wooden bathhouse with natural hot spring water.
Traveler’s Tip: If you have tattoos, check the onsen’s policy as some places may not allow tattooed visitors.
Before heading back, grab dinner near Kawaguchiko Station.
Tempura Restaurant Ajisai – Serves crispy tempura and rice bowls.
Kappou Nana – A traditional kaiseki (multi-course) restaurant.
Vegan Café Asafuji (Vegan Option) – Offers plant-based Japanese meals and desserts.
After a full day of exploring, take the Fuji Excursion Limited Express or Fujikyuko Line + JR Chuo Line back to Tokyo. The train ride takes about 1 hour, 50 minutes to 2.5 hours depending on the route.
