Tips for a Bus Trip from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji
Mt. Fuji, which welcomes countless visitors every year, is Japan's tallest peak and captivates people with its seasonal magnificence.
For travelers heading from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji, the most convenient and cost-effective option is the highway bus. Compared to routes involving a rental car or transfers between the Shinkansen and local trains, the key benefit of the highway bus is the seamless journey: it takes you directly to your destination without any stressful changes.
For international visitors exploring Japan for the first time, a highway bus journey from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji is the perfect choice, offering effortless travel and scenic views.
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The Best Ways to Get to Mt. Fuji
The benefits of using a highway bus for your trip from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji are not limited to just convenience.
The Japanese countryside and cityscapes that spread out through the bus window, along with the sight of majestic Mt. Fuji gradually getting closer, will surely become wonderful memories that color your trip.
The travel time is relatively short—about 2 to 3 hours without traffic—making it suitable for travelers who want to use their time effectively. If you want to explore the Mt. Fuji area efficiently, the first step of your trip is to book a bus from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko Station.
Booking Your Bus
Buses traveling from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji operate on a frequent schedule. While you can book directly on the individual bus operators' websites, booking on the official WILLER TRAVEL website is often more convenient because you can compare multiple bus companies simultaneously and purchase tickets online. Please note that during peak season, buses can become fully booked on certain days. Therefore, booking early is highly recommended.
In addition, WILLER TRAVEL website also sells highway buses that go from Kawaguchiko Station to Kyoto, Osaka, and Nagoya. This route is recommended for those who plan to stay in the Mt. Fuji area and then continue touring towards the Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka.
WILLER TRAVEL Official Website
Bus Booking
From Tokyo to Kawaguchiko Station
From Kawaguchiko Station to Tokyo
Go from Mt. Fuji to other cities!
From Kawaguchiko/Fuji-Q Highland to Kyoto
Recommended Spots Around Mt. Fuji Area
1. Lake Kawaguchiko
Kawaguchiko Station is the main destination for highway buses departing from Tokyo and serves as the sightseeing base for the Mt. Fuji area.
From Lake Kawaguchiko, you can enjoy the magnificent Mt. Fuji and beautiful seasonal nature, including cherry blossoms, lavender, and autumn foliage. The area around Lake Kawaguchiko also offers plenty of activities like sightseeing boats and canoes, as well as various dining experiences. Since many events are held throughout the seasons, it is recommended to check information before your trip.
2. Fuji-Q Highland
Located at the base of Mt. Fuji, Fuji-Q Highland is a popular amusement park surrounded by magnificent nature, which can be enjoyed by everyone from adults to children.
The main highlight is, without a doubt, the breathtaking view of Mt. Fuji visible from within the park. The views of Mt. Fuji seen from the thrilling roller coasters like 'Takabisha' and 'FUJIYAMA' are especially stunning. For those who prefer to view Mt. Fuji at a slower pace, the 'FUJIYAMA Sky Deck' or the Ferris wheel are highly recommended.
WILLER TRAVEL website offers package tours that include a one-day pass and bus transportation.
3. Oshino Hakkai
Oshino Hakkai is famous for its beautiful landscape, featuring clear spring water ponds—fed by Mt. Fuji's snowmelt over several decades—and scattered traditional Japanese thatched-roof houses and water wheels. The majestic Mt. Fuji reflected in the clear water behind the village is a must-see sight. It is absolutely a spot you should visit when you come to the Mt. Fuji area.
From Kawaguchiko Station, you can easily reach Oshino Hakkai in about 30 minutes by taking a local bus departing from Kawaguchiko Station. Being able to relax and enjoy the scenery from the bus window while traveling is another recommended feature. Since the number of bus services is limited, it is a good idea to check the timetable in advance during peak season.
4. Gotemba Premium Outlets
Gotemba Premium Outlets is one of the largest outlet malls in Japan, located in Gotemba City, Shizuoka Prefecture. The expansive grounds, which offer a view of the World Heritage site Mt. Fuji, house approximately 290 famous brand stores, making it a popular shopping spot where you can enjoy shopping and Mt. Fuji simultaneously.
If you are traveling from Tokyo to Gotemba Premium Outlets, we recommend taking a highway bus. Buses depart from Ikebukuro and arrive directly at Gotemba Premium Outlets without any transfers. Why not enjoy a relaxing day trip there?
Summary of Tips for Bus Travel from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji
We have now provided several tips to help you maximize your enjoyment of a bus trip from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji.
The area around Mt. Fuji gets particularly crowded during the summer climbing season and the autumn foliage season, making it essential to book your bus tickets early.
Furthermore, since bus travel time can be heavily influenced by road conditions, we recommend allowing ample time in your itinerary. As the return time may sometimes be significantly delayed, it is advisable to give yourself sufficient time—for example, by not scheduling major plans immediately after returning to Tokyo and reserving them for the following day.
We hope this guide will be helpful in planning your trip from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji. The moment you gaze upon Japan's highest peak from the bus window will surely be an unforgettable memory. Have a wonderful trip to Mt. Fuji!
