Best Ways to Travel from Tokyo to Mount Fuji Easily

Mount Fuji, Japan's iconic and culturally significant landmark, is easily accessible from Tokyo, offering various transportation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are three primary ways to get to Mount Fuji from Tokyo, each with its unique advantages and considerations.

1. Express Bus

The express bus is one of the most common and cost-effective ways to reach Mount Fuji from Tokyo. Buses depart frequently from major stations such as Shinjuku, Tokyo, and Shibuya, with Shinjuku Station offering the best frequency.

• Departure Points: Shinjuku Station, Tokyo Station, Shibuya Station
• Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes from Shinjuku to Kawaguchi-ko Lake Station
• Cost: Around 2,000 JPY one way
• Booking: While booking is not mandatory, it is recommended to secure seats in advance, especially during peak travel times
• Pros: Affordable, frequent departures, direct route
• Cons: Cramped seats, potential delays due to traffic congestion, especially on weekends and holidays

2. Express Train (FUJI EXCURSION)

For a more comfortable journey, the Limited Express train named Fuji-Kaiyu (FUJI EXCURSION) is a superior option. This train offers direct service to the Mount Fuji area, providing more spacious and comfortable seating compared to the express bus.

• Departure Point: Shinjuku Station
• Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours
• Cost: Double the cost of the express bus, but exact prices vary
• Pros: More comfortable seating, direct route, less crowded
• Cons: Higher cost compared to the express bus

3. Train via JR Chuo Line and Fujikyu Railway

Using the train network is another efficient way to reach Mount Fuji. This involves taking the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station to Otsuki Station and then transferring to the Fujikyu Railway Line to Kawaguchiko Station.

• Departure Point: Shinjuku Station
• Travel Time: About 2 hours
  • JR Chuo Line: From Shinjuku to Otsuki Station (around 1 hour)
  • Fujikyu Railway Line: From Otsuki to Kawaguchiko Station (around 55 minutes)
• Cost:
  • JR Chuo Line: Covered by Japan Rail Pass
  • Fujikyu Railway Line: 1,140 JPY one way (not covered by Japan Rail Pass)
• Pros: Scenic route, option to use Japan Rail Pass for part of the journey
• Cons: Requires a transfer at Otsuki Station, additional cost for the Fujikyu Railway Line

Additional Tips and Considerations

• Traffic and Delays: Both bus and car journeys can be affected by traffic congestion, especially during weekends and holidays. Plan accordingly and check for updates before your trip.
• Local Transportation: Once you reach the Mount Fuji area, local transportation options such as taxis or hired cars can be useful for getting around, especially if you prefer not to rely on public transportation schedules.
• Climbing Season: If you plan to climb Mount Fuji, note that the climbing season is from July to September. During this time, all hiking trails are open, but outside this period, trails and mountain huts are closed.

By understanding these options and their specifics, you can choose the method that best fits your travel style and preferences, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip to Mount Fuji from Tokyo.