A day trip to Mount Fuji from Tokyo can be part of your itinerary, exploration day trips from tokyo. Some travelers love to include this trip because Mount Fuji has a fascinating view. Besides that, there are a lot of things that make it more fun. So, let’s dive into the article so you can find out how to enjoy a day trip to Mount Fuji from Tokyo.
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Enjoying a Day Trip From Tokyo
When are you planning to visit Tokyo? Do you include Mount Fuji in your trip? Well, it’s a good idea to read this article so that you will know more about how to enjoy your day trip to Mt. Fuji from Tokyo.
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What to See at Mount Fuji?
A day trip to Mount Fuji from Tokyo is a fantastic way to experience both the natural beauty of Japan’s iconic mountain and the vibrant energy of its capital city. Here’s how you can plan your day trip , but before that, you must know what you can see there.
Mount Fuji is not only Japan’s highest peak but also one of its most iconic symbols, surrounded by natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and outdoor activities. Here are some of the top things to see and do around Mount Fuji:
First, Mount Fuji Itself. If you visit during the official climbing season (early July to early September), consider hiking to the summit. The most popular trail is the Yoshida Trail, starting from the 5th Station. The climb usually takes about 5-8 hours to ascend and 3-5 hours to descend.
If you are one of those people who are not looking to summit, visiting one of the 5th Stations (like Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station) is a great way to experience Mount Fuji up close. These stations offer views, shrines, and starting points for shorter hikes.
Do you like to see lakes? Well, you can visit them around Mount Fuji, so you can see Fuji Five Lakes . Lake Kawaguchi (Kawaguchiko) is the most accessible and developed of the five lakes, offering stunning views of Mount Fuji, especially on clear days. You can also take a boat ride or visit the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum.
Next, Lake Yamanaka (Yamanakako) is the largest of the five lakes, known for its recreational activities like boating and fishing. The Yamanakako Hananomiyako Park is famous for its flower fields with Mount Fuji in the background.
Lake Saiko is also known for its tranquil environment and camping sites. The nearby Aokigahara Forest (Sea of Trees) offers hiking trails, though it has a dark history associated with it.
Lake Shoji (Shojiko) is the smallest of the five lakes, popular for its quiet atmosphere and great fishing spots. Lastly, Lake Motosu (Motosuko) is the deepest and clearest of the five lakes, and it’s featured on the back of the 1,000 yen bill. It’s a great spot for camping and water sports.
How to Have the Best Day Trip to Mount Fuji from Tokyo?
Japan is a country where the modern world meets ancient traditions, and there’s no better symbol of this harmony than Mount Fuji. Standing at 3,776 meters, this iconic mountain is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see for anyone visiting Japan.
While many opt to climb it during the summer months, you can also enjoy the beauty of Mount Fuji on a day trip from Tokyo. Here’s how to make the most of your day trip, experiencing everything from breathtaking landscapes to cultural landmarks:
Morning: Departing from Tokyo
Start your day early to maximize your time at Mount Fuji. The most convenient way to reach the area is by taking the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station to Otsuki Station, and then transferring to the Fujikyu Railway to reach Kawaguchiko Station.
The journey takes about 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the views as the urban landscape of Tokyo gives way to the rolling hills and eventually, the majestic sight of Mount Fuji.
First Stop: Lake Kawaguchi
Upon arrival at Kawaguchiko Station, make your way to Lake Kawaguchi (Kawaguchiko), one of the famous Fuji Five Lakes. This is one of the best spots to view Mount Fuji, especially in the morning when the skies are often clearer.
Take a leisurely stroll along the lakeshore, where you can capture stunning photos of the mountain reflecting in the calm waters. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, rent a paddle boat or join a short cruise on the lake for an even better perspective.
For those interested in Japanese culture, the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum offers a delightful experience with its collection of European automatic musical instruments and gardens, all with Mount Fuji as a stunning backdrop.
Next Stop: Chureito Pagoda
From Lake Kawaguchi, take a short bus ride to the Chureito Pagoda in Arakurayama Sengen Park. This five-story pagoda is one of the most photographed sites in Japan, and for good reason. The view from here, with the pagoda in the foreground and Mount Fuji towering behind it, is simply breathtaking. The climb to the pagoda involves about 400 steps, but the panoramic view at the top is well worth the effort.
Lunch: Enjoying Local Delicacies
After soaking in the views, it’s time to enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch. The area around Kawaguchiko is known for its local specialty, Hoto noodles. This hearty dish consists of thick, flat noodles served in a miso-based soup with vegetables, making it the perfect meal to refuel before continuing your day.
Afternoon: Oshino Hakkai and Mount Fuji 5th Station
In the afternoon, head to Oshino Hakkai, a quaint village known for its eight crystal-clear ponds fed by the snowmelt from Mount Fuji. The village offers a glimpse into traditional Japanese rural life, with thatched-roof houses, small shrines, and beautiful gardens. Take some time to explore the ponds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Next, if time permits, consider a visit to the Mount Fuji 5th Station. Located halfway up the mountain, the 5th Station is accessible by bus from Kawaguchiko. Here, you’ll find several observation decks offering close-up views of Mount Fuji’s summit, along with souvenir shops and small shrines. It’s a great spot for those who want to experience Mount Fuji’s grandeur without the commitment of a full climb.
Evening: Return to Tokyo
As the day comes to a close, it’s time to make your way back to Tokyo. Depending on your preference, you can either take the Fujikyu Railway back to Otsuki Station and transfer to the JR Chuo Line, or opt for a direct highway bus from Kawaguchiko Station to Shinjuku. The journey back takes around 2-2.5 hours, giving you enough time to reflect on your day’s adventures.
Well, that’s how you, as a traveler, can have a day trip to Mount Fuji from Tokyo. With proper planning, you can experience Mount Fuji in just one day.
