Discovering Mount Fuji: The Ultimate Travel Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on exploring Mount Fuji, Japan’s iconic and highest mountain. Let’s embark on this exhilarating adventure!

Day 1: Tokyo to Mount Fuji – Your First Glimpse

Your journey begins bright and early in Tokyo, where excitement and anticipation build as you prepare to see Mount Fuji for the first time. Here’s a breakdown of your activities for the day:

Morning: Departure from Tokyo

Start your day by leaving Tokyo early in the morning to make the most of your time at Mount Fuji. One of the most convenient and scenic ways to travel is by the JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Shin-Fuji Station. The 1-hour trip allows you to relax and enjoy the beautiful Japanese countryside. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal, which offers a direct route to the Fujisan area.

Mid-Morning: Arrive at Kawaguchiko

Upon arriving, head over to Kawaguchiko, the most popular base for exploring Mount Fuji. Take a moment to soak in the breathtaking views of the iconic mountain reflecting off Lake Kawaguchi. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the majestic Mount Fuji without any clouds obstructing your view.

Late Morning: Visit the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum

Before lunch, take a short trip to the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum. This charming museum features a collection of automatic musical instruments and European-style gardens. It’s a wonderful spot for a relaxing stroll while appreciating the beautiful harmony between nature and music.

Afternoon: Lunch with a View

For lunch, head to one of the local restaurants offering views of Mount Fuji. Try the region’s specialties such as Hoto noodles, a hot pot dish with thick, flat noodles and vegetables. Restaurants like Houtou Fudou offer delicious meals with spectacular views of Mount Fuji in the background.

Early Afternoon: Explore Fuji-Q Highland

If you’re up for some thrill, spend your early afternoon at Fuji-Q Highland, one of Japan’s most famous amusement parks. The park boasts roller coasters and attractions that not only offer adrenaline-pumping experiences but also fantastic views of Mount Fuji. Don’t miss out on riding the Fujiyama roller coaster, often referred to as the “King of Coasters.”

Late Afternoon: Relax at an Onsen

After the excitement at Fuji-Q Highland, unwind at one of the nearby hot spring resorts. The Fujiyama Onsen is highly recommended for its relaxing baths and spectacular views of Mount Fuji. Soothe your muscles and rejuvenate your spirit in the mineral-rich waters while gazing at the serene mountain.

Evening: Check-In at Your Hotel

Complete your day by checking in to your accommodation. For those who prefer lakeside charm, staying at places like Fuji Lake Hotel or Fuji View Hotel is a great choice. Enjoy a delightful dinner at your hotel, savoring local delicacies and more breathtaking views of Mount Fuji before retiring for the night, ready for more adventures ahead.

EXPLORE HOTELS IN FUJIKAWAGUICHIKO

Day 2: Delving into Mount Fuji’s Natural Beauty and Culture

Your second day around Mount Fuji promises a mix of natural wonders and cultural exploration. Here’s what you should include in your itinerary:

Morning: Visit Chureito Pagoda

Start your day with a visit to the Chureito Pagoda, one of the most iconic photography spots with Mount Fuji in the background. The pagoda, part of the Arakura Sengen Shrine, offers breathtaking views especially during cherry blossom season. To reach the pagoda, you’ll need to climb around 400 steps, but the stunning views make the effort worthwhile.

Late Morning: Lakeside Stroll at Lake Kawaguchi

After visiting Chureito Pagoda, head over to Lake Kawaguchi for a relaxing lakeside stroll. The area around Lake Kawaguchi is perfect for leisurely walks, with several footpaths offering stunning views of Mount Fuji. Make sure to bring your camera as the reflections of Mount Fuji on the lake’s surface create a picture-perfect scene.

Lunch: Savor Local Cuisine

For lunch, explore the local cuisine at one of the lakeside restaurants or cozy cafes in Kawaguchiko. Enjoy fresh local ingredients with traditional Japanese dishes.

Afternoon: Explore the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum

Spend your afternoon at the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, dedicated to the works of Itchiku Kubota, a renowned kimono artist. The museum’s location offers beautiful scenery with Mount Fuji as a backdrop. Inside, you can admire intricate kimonos and other art pieces, while outside, the museum’s garden is a serene place to relax and take in the beauty of the surroundings.

Early Evening: Visit Oishi Park

Next, head to Oishi Park at the northern shore of Lake Kawaguchi. The park is famous for its seasonal flowers and panoramic views of Mount Fuji. In summer, the park is blanketed with lavender, while in autumn, it transforms with vibrant red coxcombs. It’s a great place to unwind, take photos, and enjoy an ice cream from one of the local vendors.

Evening: Dinner and Relaxation

Conclude your day with a nice dinner. Consider dining at your hotel or choosing a traditional restaurant in the area. Many establishments offer multi-course kaiseki meals that showcase seasonal ingredients and local flavors. After dinner, relax at your hotel or enjoy a leisurely evening walk along the lake.

Day 3: Adventure and Exploration around Mount Fuji

Your third day will be filled with adventure and exploration that will bring you closer to the natural beauty and thrilling activities around Mount Fuji. Here’s your itinerary for an exciting day:

Morning: Hike to the 5th Station

Begin your day with a hike to one of Mount Fuji’s 5th Stations. The most popular is the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station, which serves as a halfway point for climbers heading to the summit. Even if you’re not planning on climbing to the top, the 5th Station offers breathtaking views and a closer look at Fuji’s rugged terrain. Enjoy the mountain air and take some time to explore the area, which includes souvenir shops and small shrines.

Late Morning: Return to Kawaguchiko for a Scenic Cruise

After your morning hike, return to Kawaguchiko and board a scenic cruise on Lake Kawaguchi. The cruise provides unique perspectives of Mount Fuji and the surrounding landscapes. Photographers will particularly enjoy the opportunity to capture the beauty of the mountain reflected in the lake’s still waters.

Lunch: Lakeside Picnic

Pack a picnic lunch or grab some local delicacies from a nearby market to enjoy a relaxing meal by the lake. There are numerous spots around Lake Kawaguchi where you can sit and dine while taking in the views of Mount Fuji.

Afternoon: Visit the Aokigahara Forest (Sea of Trees)

In the afternoon, head to Aokigahara Forest, located at the northwest base of Mount Fuji. Known as the Sea of Trees, this dense forest has a mysterious and somewhat eerie reputation. However, it’s also a place of natural beauty and tranquility, with well-marked trails for visitors to explore. Be sure to stay on the paths and enjoy the unique flora and geological formations caused by past volcanic activity.

Early Evening: Relax at Yamanakako Onsen

After an adventurous day, unwind at Yamanakako Onsen, located near Lake Yamanaka. This hot spring resort is known for its soothing baths and stunning views of Mount Fuji. Treat yourself to a relaxing soak in the onsen’s mineral-rich waters, perfect for relieving any muscle aches from your morning hike.

Evening: Sunset Views and Dinner

As the day comes to a close, find a perfect spot to watch the sunset over Mount Fuji. Locations like the Panorama-dai observation point near Lake Yamanaka or along the shores of Lake Kawaguchi offer some of the best sunset views. Capture the mesmerizing changing colors of the sky with Mount Fuji silhouetted against it.

Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant. Reflect on the day’s adventures while savoring the flavors of the region.