Complete 2025 Transportation Guide from Tokyo to Mount Fuji: Full Comparison of JR Fuji Excursion, Fujiyama View Limited Express, and Highway Buses

Traveling from Tokyo to Mount Fuji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a variety of transportation options, including trains and buses. The most common method is to depart from Shinjuku Station, take the train to Otsuki Station, and then transfer to Kawaguchiko Station. However, Japan's complex transportation system, with its numerous options and transfers, often leads to confusion about which train to take. This article will focus on recommended transportation options from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko, detailing the pros and cons of each method, as well as its costs, and recommending discounted tickets for exploring Mount Fuji and the surrounding area.

1. Transportation from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko

Shinjuku is the most convenient departure point for traveling to and from the Fuji Five Lakes, followed by Tokyo Station. Given the convenience of Shinjuku, it's recommended to start your journey there whenever possible, regardless of where you're staying. There are many round-trip transportation options, but the following are truly worth considering:

1. Limited Express Fuji Excursion Train, approximately 1 hour and 53 minutes, 4,130 yen

2. Highway Bus, approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, 2,200 yen

3. JR Local Train, approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes to 3 hours, 2,503 yen

4. Rent a car, approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes, a one-day rental fee plus highway tolls is approximately 12,000-20,000 yen

2. Fuji Excursion Train

The Fuji Excursion limited express train, launched by JR East on March 16, 2019, offers direct access to Lake Kawaguchi via Shinjuku, Tachikawa, and Hachioji. It's currently the fastest and most convenient way to reach Mount Fuji, with Shinjuku reaching Lake Kawaguchi in as little as one hour and 52 minutes! Fares start at around 4,300 yen, and the train features reserved seating throughout, guaranteeing a seat. Enjoy the scenic views and a packed lunch, making the journey a relaxing and enjoyable experience. It's perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time exploring Lake Kawaguchi and seek comfortable transportation.

However, please note that only four round-trip trains operate daily, making service availability limited. Tickets often sell out quickly, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons and during consecutive holidays. Therefore, it's recommended to purchase tickets in advance through the reservation website as soon as your itinerary is confirmed for a worry-free trip.

Tickets can be purchased at ticket counters or vending machines at Shinjuku and Tokyo Stations, or booked in advance through online booking platforms such as Japan Train.

[Shinjuku Station → Kawaguchiko Station] 07:30, 08:30, 09:30, 10:30

[Kawaguchiko Station → Shinjuku Station] 14:09, 15:00, 16:49, 17:40

3. JR Local Train + Fuji-View Limited Express

For travelers who prefer to avoid the four daily direct trains, this alternative method is ideal for reaching Kawaguchiko. First, take the Chuo Line Limited Express from JR Shinjuku Station to Otsuki Station. Then, follow the signs to transfer to the Fuji-View Limited Express from Otsuki Station to Kawaguchiko. This requires one transfer and takes approximately three hours. While not as fast as direct trains, it allows for greater flexibility in your travel time, making it a popular option. Full fares start at around 3,000 yen.

The Fujisan View Express is a special sightseeing train connecting Otsuki Station and Kawaguchiko Station, with a journey of approximately 55 minutes. Passengers board a vibrant vermillion train designed to resemble a mountain climber, for a brief yet captivating journey through a section of the route with a drop of approximately 500 meters. A key feature of the Fujisan View Express is its expansive windows, allowing passengers to admire the majestic Mount Fuji and the ever-changing natural scenery from any seat. The interior, decorated with wood, creates a warm and comfortable atmosphere, allowing passengers to relax and enjoy the journey, just like staying in a hotel.

4. Express Bus

Another major way to reach Kawaguchiko from Tokyo is by direct highway bus. Direct highway buses to Kawaguchiko are available from Haneda Airport, Narita Airport, Shinjuku, Tokyo Station, Shinagawa, Shibuya, Yokohama, and other areas. Buses departing Shinjuku are particularly frequent, with short journey times of approximately two hours and affordable fares, offering both cost and convenience. However, if there is traffic on the highway, arrival times may be significantly later than expected, so please be mindful. Also, like the Fuji Express Train, highway buses can be fully booked during peak tourist season. It's recommended to reserve tickets in advance and confirm the bus stop location beforehand to avoid last-minute rushes.

5. Mount Fuji Tourist Pass

Arriving at Kawaguchiko Station, the best way to explore Mount Fuji is with the Mount Fuji Amazing Pass. Available only to foreign tourists, the pass combines buses and trains, covering key areas around Mount Fuji. Available in one-, two-, and three-day versions, the pass costs between 7,500 and 12,500 yen for adults, allowing unlimited travel on buses and trains around Mount Fuji. During the summer, the pass extends to the 5th station at each major trailhead, making it convenient for both simply visiting sightseeing spots and arranging a hiking itinerary with multiple entrances. It's perfect for international travelers planning a multi-day, in-depth exploration of the Mount Fuji area.

6. Recommended Attractions in Kawaguchiko

Next, we'll introduce must-see attractions in Kawaguchiko, as well as photo spots with Mount Fuji in mind, to help you get started right from your first visit! For day trips to Lake Kawaguchi from Tokyo, it's recommended to visit attractions near Kawaguchiko Station, such as Tenjoyama Park, sightseeing boats, and the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum. If you have more time, you can further explore the natural wonders surrounding Aokigahara Forest near Saiko Lake. If you simply want to photograph Mount Fuji, it's recommended to purchase a one- or two-day pass and take the Kawaguchiko Lake Tour Bus. Get off at your desired stop, snap some photos, and then hop on the next bus to continue on to your next stop. This is a relaxing way to spend the day, but be sure to keep an eye on the timetable and manage your time efficiently!

6.1 Lake Kawaguchi

Lake Kawaguchiko is one of the Fuji Five Lakes. On clear, calm days, the "Upside-Down Fuji," with Mount Fuji reflected in the lake, is Kawaguchiko's most famous sight. The shores of Lake Kawaguchiko are home to numerous leisure facilities, including resort hotels with views of Mount Fuji from every floor. Many people come here specifically to photograph Mount Fuji from the opposite direction. The recommended best location is the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi. In spring, you can also capture the beautiful scene of cherry blossoms in full bloom framing Mount Fuji.

6.2 Kawaguchiko Natural Living Museum

The Kawaguchiko Natural Living Museum is a great spot for taking photos of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi. You can also try handmade blueberry jam and blueberry ice cream, which are incredibly sweet and delicious! The Kawaguchiko Natural Living Museum also offers jam-making workshops. If you have time, try making your own blueberry jam or other types of jam. If it's blueberry season, you can even go blueberry picking!

Kawaguchiko Natural Living Museum

・Address: 2585 Oishi, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture

・Access: Take the Red Line bus and get off at Stop 20, "Kawaguchiko Natural Living Museum."

・Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM, 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM from November to March

6.3 Oshino Hakkai

Oshino Hakkai is a group of eight springs located in Oshino Village near Mount Fuji. These eight pools, known as the Hakkai, are derived from melted snow from Mount Fuji. After 80 years of filtering underground, the waters are crystal clear and have been designated as one of the 100 Famous Waters and a national natural monument. The pristine waters, combined with the surrounding countryside changing with the seasons and the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, create a picturesque scene that attracts crowds daily. It's recommended to visit Oshino Hakkai early in the morning to minimize crowds.

Oshino Hakkai

・Address: Oshino Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture

・Access: Take the Fuji Yoshida/Oshino/Lake Yamanakako Tour Bus and get off at Stop 126, "Oshino Hakkai." Walk about 3 minutes.