1 Day Itinerary in Mount Fuji

Nestled at the foot of Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji, the scenic town of Fuji Kawaguchiko offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and peaceful retreat — all easily explored in a single day. Whether you're chasing postcard-worthy views of Mount Fuji, relaxing by the serene Lake Kawaguchi, or immersing yourself in traditional Japanese experiences, this compact destination makes for a memorable day trip.

How to get there from Tokyo

1. By Train (via Otsuki) – Fastest & Most Scenic

• Route : From Shinjuku Station, take the JR Chuo Line (Limited Express) to Otsuki Station → transfer to the Fujikyu Railway to Kawaguchiko Station.

• Duration : ~2 to 2.5 hours

• Cost : ~¥2,500–¥4,000 one way (depending on train type and seat class)

• Tip : You can use the JR Tokyo Wide Pass, which covers this entire route.

  
  

2. By Highway Bus – Cheapest & Easiest

• Route : Direct buses run from Shinjuku Station, Tokyo Station, or Shibuya to Kawaguchiko Station.

• Duration : ~1.5 to 2.5 hours (depending on traffic)

• Cost : ~¥2,000 one way

• Tip : Reserve in advance, especially on weekends or holidays. Willer Express and Fujikyu Bus are reliable options.

 3. By Car – Most Flexible

• Route : Take the Chuo Expressway from Tokyo toward Kawaguchiko.

• Duration : ~1.5 to 2 hours

• Cost : Toll fees (~¥2,000) + rental car/fuel

Pro tip : Hire a bike for a better touring experience around Kawaguchiko!

Morning to Lunch Time

Chureito Pagoda (Arakurayama Sangen Park) / Oishi Park

Chureito Pagoda offers stunning view of Mount Fuji with the Pagoda. The journey will be quite tough since you need to climb around 400 stairs to reach the top, and prepared to go as early as 7 AM, since there will be many tourist queueing to snap few photos here.

If you are not a fan of hiking, you can opt to visit Oishi Park instead. The park's design allows visitors to capture the perfect shot of the lake, flowers, and Mount Fuji in one frame. From spring to autumn, you can expect different flowers blooming beautifully!

Afternoon

Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway / Oshino Hakkai / Lake Kawaguchi Sightseeing Boat

The Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway, formerly known as the Kachi Kachi Ropeway, is one of the most popular attractions in the Lake Kawaguchi area, offering stunning views of Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi, and the surrounding mountains.

Oshino Hakkai is a picturesque village nestled between Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Yamanaka, renowned for its eight crystal-clear ponds fed by Mount Fuji's underground streams. These ponds, collectively known as Oshino Hakkai, are celebrated for their purity and spiritual significance. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, they offer a serene glimpse into traditional rural Japan.

Admire Mount Fuji while cruising above Kawaguchi Lake! The Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Boat "Appare" will pass under the Kawaguchiko Bridge, and cruises around the lake for about 20 minutes.

Evening

Shopping at Gotemba Outlet

End your day trip at Mount Fuji with some shopping spree at Gotemba Outlet! With over 290 stores, it offers massive discounts on luxury and popular global brands — all with a spectacular view of Mount Fuji on clear days.

Pro tip : if you go back to Tokyo by public transportation, be mindful about their schedule as some transportation only offer their service until around 7PM.

Other Activities Tips :

Fuji Chobo-no-yu Yurari Onsen / Fujisan Shokupan

If you don't mind entering hot spring with other people (gender separated), an outdoor onsen experience at Fuji Chobo-no-yu Yurari Onsen is totally worth your time. Imagine soaking in hot, natural hot spring water with the best view of Mount Fuji itself. The fee includes rental bath towel & towel for adults (not tattoo-friendly).

The bakery's signature product, the Fujisan Shokupan, is a loaf of bread designed to resemble the iconic silhouette of Mount Fuji. The bluish color is made by mixing Kyoho grape juice, a high quality grape from Nagano. Do try them if you can!