Getting to Mt. Fuji: Train vs. Bus vs. Private Car 🗻
⚠️ 3 Critical Things to Know Before You Book
- 1. It is FREEZING up there: Mt. Fuji 5th Station is 10°C to 15°C colder than Tokyo. Even in summer, bring a jacket. In autumn/winter, you need a heavy coat.
- 2. No Summit Hiking: You cannot climb to the top in winter/spring. The hiking trails to the summit are only open from July to early September. This guide is for sightseeing (5th Station/Lake view).
- 3. The “Pagoda” Warning: If your tour visits “Arakurayama Sengen Park” (the famous Pagoda view), be ready to climb 398 stairs. It is not wheelchair accessible.
Many tourists think, “I have a JR Pass, so I’ll take the train.” This is often a mistake.
While the train is cheap, hauling luggage through crowded stations and transferring buses to reach the mountain can be a nightmare. Here is the honest comparison.
🚅 Option C: The “Fuji Excursion” Train (Budget)
There is a direct Limited Express train from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko. It is fast and cheap, BUT it has a major problem: It sells out instantly.
- ⚠️ Warning: If you don’t book 3-4 weeks in advance, you will likely have to stand for 2 hours.
- ⚠️ Local Transport: The train only takes you to the station. To see the lake or mountain, you must wait for crowded local buses.
*Book as soon as sales open (1 month prior).
Option A: The “Private Charter” (Best for Families & Groups) 🏆
If you are traveling with family, elderly parents, or a group of 3-4 friends, hiring a private car is actually the smartest choice.
✨ Why Private Charter?
- ✅ Total Freedom: You decide the schedule. Stay longer at the lake, skip the crowded shrine.
- ✅ No Walking: The driver picks you up at your hotel lobby in Tokyo. Essential if you have kids or strollers.
- ✅ Luggage OK: Leave your heavy bags in the trunk while you explore.
👇 Most Popular Private Van (English Driver)
🚙 Book Private Van Tour(Split the cost: Cheaper than train for 4-5 people!)
Ambition Plan: Want to see Fuji AND Hakone?
*Note: This is a long day (10 hours). Only possible with a private car due to distance.
👉 Check the “Fuji & Hakone” Charter OptionOption B: The “Bus Tour” (Best for Solo & Couples) 🚌
If you are traveling solo or as a couple and want to save money, the 1-Day Bus Tour is the best value. Doing this itinerary by public train is exhausting and expensive.
⚡ Best Value: Fuji & Hakone 1-Day Bus Tour
- 🗻 Mt. Fuji 5th Station: Go halfway up the mountain.
- 🚢 Lake Ashi Cruise: Ride the pirate ship (Ticket included).
- 🚠 Ropeway: See the volcanic valley (Ticket included).
- 🍱 Lunch: Optional Halal/Veggie lunch available.
🚌 Book Bus Tour Now
❓ FAQ: Common Doubts Solved
Q: Can I go to the “5th Station” in Winter?
Usually NO. From December to March, the road to the 5th station is often closed due to snow.
Don’t worry! Tours will take you to alternative spots like Arakurayama Sengen Park or the 1st Station. The view is still amazing.
Q: Is it cold up there?
YES. It is about 15 degrees colder than Tokyo. Even if it is sunny in Shinjuku, you need a warm coat and windbreaker for Mt. Fuji.
Q: What happens if it rains?
Mt. Fuji is shy and often hides behind clouds. Tours usually run even if cloudy.
Pro Tip: Check the forecast. Private charters offer flexibility to change the destination to Gotemba Premium Outlets or Museums if it rains.
Q: Is the traffic bad?
Yes. The highway back to Tokyo on weekends is often jammed. You might return to Shinjuku around 8:00 PM.
⚠️ Important: Do not book a strict dinner reservation (like Omakase Sushi) on the same night.
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