Mount Fuji is the most visited site from Tokyo, not only because it’s highly visible but because it’s a genuine wonder.
The volcano has an eruption cycle of roughly every 300 years, yet it’s still considered active.
In fact, it’s one of the few active volcanoes in the world open to tourists.
Mount Fuji, Japan’s most famous volcano
Located almost at the center of Japan, Mount Fuji is not only an active volcano but also the country’s most symbolic landmark.
In 2013, UNESCO named Mount Fuji a World Heritage site, making it a must-visit for any traveler.
Its exact location lies between the Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectures. Standing at 3,776 meters, it offers various routes and heights for visitors to explore.
Reaching the summit is a challenge for the few who attempt it, but it’s certainly a rewarding experience.
What to see around Mount Fuji?
The areas surrounding Mount Fuji in Japan have many fascinating sites.
You can explore centuries-old ninja villages, breathtaking landscapes that rival the most beautiful paintings, and unique paths that transport you back in time.
Some recommended spots to explore include:
Fuji Yoshida
The town of Fuji Yoshida, or Fujiyoshida, is the largest at the foot of Mount Fuji.
Here, you’ll find the Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, which many believe marks the starting point for the journey to the summit.
It’s said that praying here brings good fortune—you can try it, as it certainly can’t hurt!
The Lakes
The northern area at the base of Mount Fuji is home to five lakes, each offering a unique experience.
Known as the Five Lakes region, it’s open to visitors free of charge.
From these lakes, you can enjoy stunning views of Mount Fuji reflected in the water, especially in early mornings and late afternoons. The region is also ideal for outdoor activities like camping, boating, and even fishing, making it a fantastic addition to any visit to the Fuji area.
This setting creates a wonderful opportunity for tourists to meet Japanese visitors from nearby towns who often spend their weekends here.
5th Station of Mount Fuji
The Mount Fuji trail is divided into 10 stations, with the first five being the most accessible to all visitors, as they can be reached by car.
This is why many tours focus on getting to this point.
In contrast, stations 6 through 10 are only accessible on foot, and the climb is quite challenging, so not everyone attempts it.
At the fifth station, you’ll find public services along with restaurants and cafés.
Located at an elevation of 2,305 meters, this spot offers incredible views without the need to hike all the way to the summit.
Best tours to Mount Fuji
There are many tour options to Japan’s Mount Fuji, ranging from those that focus solely on the mountain itself to more extensive experiences that include its foothills and surrounding areas.
The choice is yours, but if time and budget allow, the best option is to select a tour that offers the most variety.
Day Trip to Mount Fuji, Oshino Hakkai, and Lake Kawaguchi
This tour provides a complete experience, allowing you to explore not only Mount Fuji but also scenic spots like Oshino Hakkai and Lake Kawaguchi. It’s perfect for those seeking a rich and varied day.
Set off on a one-day journey from Tokyo to experience the majesty of Mount Fuji, with stops at some of the best viewpoints. You’ll visit the historic Hikawa Clock Shop Street, sample pure spring water, and delve into local culture at a traditional village in Oshino Hakkai.
You can book your tour here.
1-Day Panoramic Bus Tour of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi
Enjoy breathtaking views and learn about the history and culture of the region on this panoramic tour. It’s ideal for those who want a comfortable and enriching exploration of Mount Fuji and its surroundings.
The tour takes you to four top spots around Mount Fuji, including the charming Arakurayama Sengen Park, the serene Lake Kawaguchi, the picturesque Oishi Park, and the traditional Saiko Village. Each location offers a unique perspective of Mount Fuji, allowing you to appreciate this iconic landmark from various angles.
Find more information and book here.
Mount Fuji: 1-Day Panoramic Bus Tour from Tokyo
Tokyo is a captivating city, beautiful in countless ways. But a day trip to nature is always refreshing.
To make it happen, you can take a bus tour to Mount Fuji. This tour offers just the right amount of time to see Mount Fuji and enjoy the scenic journey from Tokyo.
The tour starts in Tokyo in an air-conditioned bus that ensures your journey is nothing but pleasurable.
The drive takes approximately two hours, during which you can admire several charming, picturesque towns along the way.
The first stop is Oshino Hakkai, or “The Eight Ponds of Oshino”. From here, you’ll enjoy spring waters and privileged views of Mount Fuji.
The area’s fruit trees have always welcomed visitors warmly, and sampling their fruits is both recommended and free.
The next stop is the Oshino Shinobi no Sato ninja village, where you’ll immerse yourself in a fascinating aspect of Japanese culture that captivates millions around the world.
Here, you’ll also find a classic Japanese garden, where you can even take a photo… with a ninja as your companion.
A lunch of traditional Japanese dishes from the region is offered to visitors in the village. You’ll get to savor recipes not commonly found elsewhere.
The tour continues with a visit to a flight simulator at Fuji Airways, which provides a 4D experience offering spectacular views of Mount Fuji.
The final stop of the tour is at Lake Kawaguchi-ko, situated in the Fuji Five Lakes area, where the reflection of Mount Fuji in the water leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
The tour is conducted in English and Japanese, with an audio guide available in Spanish.
The tour costs €106 and has an approximate duration of 9 hours.
From Tokyo: Mount Fuji and Hakone
Mount Fujiyama can be seen from many parts of Japan, but visiting it is a truly unique experience.
If you’re visiting Tokyo, you can book a tour that will take you there comfortably, in an air-conditioned bus.
The journey starts with a convenient transfer from Tokyo to Mount Fuji, with the entry ticket already included in the tour price.
The tour participants are taken in the same transport up to the fifth of Mount Fuji’s ten stations, situated 2,300 meters above sea level.
This spot provides some of the best photo opportunities, along with fascinating insights into the mountain’s rich history.
Afterward, you’ll visit the Fuji Visitor Center, which features a variety of exhibits on the area’s culture and natural environment.
The tour continues with a delightful meal at a nearby restaurant, where you can enjoy some of the finest Japanese cuisine in a serene setting, perfect for recharging.
The next destination is Hakone, a village famous for its hot springs.
Here, you’ll board a boat for a cruise on Lake Ashi, providing stunning landscapes ideal for memorable photos.
For a grand finale, participants will ride a cable car to view Mount Fuji from above. From this vantage point, you can also see Hakone National Park.
This tour is conducted in English, with audio guides available in multiple languages, including Spanish.
The tour costs €120 per person and lasts approximately 9 hours.
Climbing Mount Fujiyama on Your Own
Visiting Mount Fujiyama, or Fuji, is something you can easily do on your own without joining a tour.
More and more tourists are opting for their own self-guided tours—a practice that has been common among Japanese locals for hundreds of years.
If you want to reach Mount Fuji in Japan, it’s best to consider the time of year, as access to the mountain is closely tied to the peak tourist seasons.
For a visit that doesn’t include climbing to the summit, you can plan your trip between April and May or between October and November.
If you’re aiming for the summit, plan your visit between July and August, when the peak is free of snow.
The first step is to get to Kawaguchiko, a town near Tokyo, situated close to the base of the mountain.
Spending a night or two in Kawaguchiko is worthwhile since you’ll be able to explore other areas besides Mount Fuji, such as Lake Kawaguchi and the Chureito Pagoda.
To begin the hike to the summit, there is a ¥1000 entrance fee (around €8), which grants access to the mountain area from its base to the peak.
There are several trails leading up Mount Fuji, each with different elevations and starting points. The Yoshida Trail is the most popular. The ascent typically takes between 6 and 8 hours, so it’s essential to be prepared.
Along the various routes, you’ll find rest areas ideal for recharging with food and drinks.
As you can see, visiting Mount Fuji in Japan is an experience you can shape according to your preferences.
Whether accompanied by guides or exploring on your own, staying at the mountain’s base or back in beautiful Tokyo, this will be a visit you won’t forget.