Tokyo Day Guides
by Trip To Japan
How to Spend a Day at Mount Fuji on a Day Trip from Tokyo
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.
Take a Train from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko Station
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!
Start Your Day at Chureito Pagoda
Walking Distance: 15 minutes from Shimoyoshida Station (one stop before Kawaguchiko).
Entrance Fee: Free
What to Do at Chureito Pagoda
✔ 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.
Mid-Morning Coffee Break in Fujiyoshida
After your visit to Chureito Pagoda, take a break at a local café in Fujiyoshida before heading to Lake Kawaguchi.
Café Options
Café & Dining Gekko (Vegan Option) – Serves plant-based meals, coffee, and desserts.
Explore Lake Kawaguchi
Travel Time: 10-minute bus ride from Kawaguchiko Station
What to Do at Lake Kawaguchi
✔ 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.
Lunch with a View of Mount Fuji
After exploring Lake Kawaguchi, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.
Restaurant Options
Houtou Fudou – Famous for Houtou noodles, a local specialty with thick flat noodles in miso soup.
La Luce (Vegan Option) – Upscale trattoria serving pasta, pizza & Italian-style ice creams, with vegetarian & vegan options.
Visit Oshino Hakkai
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.
What to Do at Oshino Hakkai
✔ 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.
Ride the Kachi Kachi Ropeway for a Fuji Panorama
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.
What to Do at the Ropeway:
✔ 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.
Relax in an Onsen with a Fuji View
If you have time before heading back, consider visiting a hot spring (onsen) for a relaxing soak while admiring Mount Fuji.
Onsen Options
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.
Dinner Before Returning to Tokyo
Before heading back, grab dinner near Kawaguchiko Station.
Dinner Options
Tempura Restaurant Ajisai – Serves crispy tempura and rice bowls.
Kosaku Kawaguchiko – Japanese regional restaurant
La Luce (Vegan Option) – Upscale trattoria serving pasta, pizza & Italian-style ice creams, with vegetarian & vegan options..
Return to Your Hotel
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.
