Mount Fuji, Japan’s iconic peak, is a must-visit destination for travelers in Tokyo. Just a short trip from the capital, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers breathtaking views and countless activities.
A day-trip from Tokyo to Mt Fuji and the lesser known Hakone five lakes area is among the favorite experiences of many travelers to Japan.
And getting from Tokyo to Mount Fuji is simple and convenient with multiple transport options available with the JR Pass.
On this page, we cover the best ways to get to Mt Fuji from Tokyo, including trains, buses, and car rentals, helping you plan the perfect journey.
Table of Contents
Tokyo to Mt. Fuji by train
One of the most popular and fastest ways to travel from Tokyo to Mount Fuji is by train.
Japan’s efficient and reliable rail network offers several options, each catering to different budgets and schedules.
Taking the Shinkansen bullet train
To take a bullet train from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji use the Tokaido Shinkansen line from Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station to Shin-Fuji Station.
This option also provides you with stunning views of Mount Fuji around 40-45 minutes into the journey. For the best views, take a seat in the right-hand window-side seat F (or D in Green Cars).
Kodama trains stop at all stations and are suitable for this route. Use your Japan Rail Pass for free travel on Kodama trains.
Trains depart frequently, approximately every 15-30 minutes. It’s approximately 6,000 yen for a one-way ticket without a JR Pass, but JR Pass holders travel free.
It’s worth noting that none of the JR regional passes include rides on the Tokaido Shinkansen, so the nationwide Japan Rail Pass is your best option in this case. Plus, it’s valid for other trips around the country and is great value for money.
To complete the trip to Mount Fuji from Shin-Fuji station, transfer to a local bus operated by Fujikyu to reach Mount Fuji station. A one-way bus journey is about 2h 15 minutes long, at the cost of around 2,136 yen (round trips are 4,273 yen).
Please note that Fujikyu is not part of the Japan Rail Group, which means the Japan Rail Pass does not cover buses ran by this company, and no seat reservations are available.
Fuji Excursion Limited Express
This direct train connects Shinjuku Station in Tokyo to Kawaguchiko Station, a gateway to Mount Fuji.
Fuji Excursion Limited Express trains operate directly, with 3 daily departures. The full current timetable is as follows:
|
Fuji Excursion timetable from Tokyo |
||||||
|
Station |
Weekdays |
Saturdays and holidays |
||||
| Fuji Excursion No. 3 | Fuji Excursion No. 7 | Fuji Excursion No. 11 | Fuji Excursion 93 | Fuji Excursion No. 7 | Fuji Excursion No. 11 | |
| Shinjuku | 7:30 | 8:30 | 9:30 | 7:30 | 8:30 | 9:30 |
| Tachikawa | 7:52 | 9:00 | 10:00 | 7:53 | 8:58 | 9:58 |
| Hachioji | 8:02 | 9:09 | 10:09 | 8:02 | 9:07 | 10:07 |
| Otsuki | 8:37 | 9:42 | 10:42 | 8:37 | 9:42 | 10:42 |
| Tsuru Bunka University | 8:54 | 9:57 | 10:57 | 8:54 | 9:57 | 10:57 |
| Mount Fuji (Fujisan) | 9:15 | 10:17 | 11:17 | 9:15 | 10:17 | 11:17 |
| Fuji-Q Highland | 9:20 | 10:22 | 11:22 | 9:20 | 10:22 | 11:22 |
| Kawaguchiko | 9:23 | 10:25 | 11:25 | 9:23 | 10:25 | 11:25 |
The price is 4,130 yen one way without a JR Pass. Note that JR Pass holders need to buy a ticket for Otsuki – Kawaguchiko section of the route as it’s not covered by the Pass: the price is 1740 yen for adults.
Unlimited access to transportation across Japan for 7, 14, or 21 days on:
- All Shinkansen trains
- Rapid and Local JR trains
- JR bus and ferry services
- Airport Transfers
A single ticket, huge savings.
Kawaguchiko Station offers easy access to nearby attractions, including Chureito Pagoda and Mount Fuji Station: direct buses operated by Fujikyu are available. The bus costs around 210-290 yen and only takes around 12 minutes.
Check out our guide to the Fuji Excursion Limited Express for more information.
Riding a bus
Buses are a budget-friendly and straightforward option to reach Mount Fuji from Tokyo. Multiple operators provide direct services to key locations near the mountain.
Highway Buses depart from major stations such as Shinjuku, Tokyo, and Shibuya, arriving at Kawaguchiko Station or Fuji-Q Highland.
The journey takes approximately 2-2.5 hours, depending on the departure point and traffic. The price is around 2,000-2,600 yen one way.
There are also Limited Express buses available from these stations which have fewer departures and shorter journey times, under 2 hours.
These buses have extra features such as ample legroom, large windows, and occasional refreshments, so are slightly more expensive, from around 4,000 yen.
If you’re planning on climbing Mt. Fuji, special buses that give you direct access to the trailheads operate during climbing season, from July to September. They run from Shijuku Station and go directly to Mt. Fuji’s 5th station, with prices ranging from 2,800 yen.
Additionally, some bus companies offer guided tours, including transport and itinerary packages.
Renting a car
For maximum flexibility, renting a car is an excellent choice for traveling to Mount Fuji. This option is particularly convenient for groups or families: rental locations are available throughout Tokyo, including major train stations and airports.
Rental fees start around 6,000 yen per day, excluding fuel and toll charges.
Note that International Driving Permits (IDP) are required for foreign drivers and that winter months may require snow tires or chains.
Check out our guide to renting a car in Japan for more information.
How far is Mount Fuji from Tokyo by car
The driving distance from Tokyo to Mount Fuji is approximately 100-120 km, taking 2-3 hours depending on traffic and the route.
The Chuo Expressway offers direct access to the Mount Fuji area, and parking is available at major tourist spots around the mountain, including the 5th Station.
What to see in the Mount Fuji area
As we have already mentioned, Mount Fuji forms part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Hakone is one of the most popular destinations for tourists, located less than 100 km. from the capital city of Japan.
Famous for its scenic area, Ashi lake, hot springs and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, Hakone is more than worth the visit.
Please check our new Hakone guide for more information on visiting the area.