Mount Fuji (Fuji-san) is Japan’s tallest and most iconic mountain, standing proudly at 3,776 meters. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a spiritual symbol of Japan, it draws millions of travelers each year—whether to climb it, photograph it, or simply admire it from afar. The travel time from Tokyo to Mount Fuji is about 2 hours.
For month-by-month travel planning, read our “Best Time to Visit Japan” guide to know exactly when to go for your goals.
📸 Best Views of Mount Fuji
1. Lake Kawaguchi (Kawaguchiko)
- Most accessible view with perfect reflections on clear days.
- Great spot for cherry blossoms (April) and autumn leaves (November).
- Visit the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway for aerial views.
2. Chureito Pagoda
- The iconic 5-story pagoda with Mount Fuji in the background.
- Best during cherry blossom season or fall foliage.
- 400+ steps, but worth it for the breathtaking scenery.
3. Hakone
- Hot springs + Mount Fuji = perfect combo.
- Try the Hakone Ropeway or Lake Ashi Cruise for photo opportunities.
4. Fuji Five Lakes Region
- Includes Lake Yamanaka, Lake Saiko, Lake Shoji, and Lake Motosu.
- Motosu is the view used on the ¥1,000 yen bill!
5. Tokyo Skytree or Mount Takao (clear weather only)
- On rare clear days, Mount Fuji can even be spotted from central Tokyo.
Hiking Mount Fuji: Everything You Need to Know
🔹 Climbing Season:
- Early July to early September (official season).
- Trails are open, weather is safer, and mountain huts are operational.
🔹 Trails Overview:
- Yoshida Trail (most popular, best for beginners)
- Subashiri Trail (quieter, joins Yoshida halfway)
- Gotemba Trail (longest, steepest, fewer crowds)
- Fujinomiya Trail (shortest ascent, steep)
| Route | Ascent Time | Descent Time | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yoshida Trail (most popular) | 5–7 hours | 3–5 hours | 8–12 hours |
| Subashiri Trail | 5–8 hours | 3–5 hours | 8–13 hours |
| Gotemba Trail | 7–10 hours | 3–5 hours | 10–15 hours |
| Fujinomiya Trail (shortest route) | 4–6 hours | 2–4 hours | 6–10 hours |
🔹 Tips for Climbers:
- Acclimatize: Altitude sickness is real above 3,000m
- No technical climbing needed, but altitude fatigue is real
- Start from 5th Station (base stations vary by trail)
- Dress in layers: Temperatures vary greatly
- Book a mountain hut if you’re doing the sunrise climb (“Goraiko”)
- Bring a headlamp, passport and cash for huts & snacks (some trails have foreigner discounts)
Option: Stay Overnight at a Mountain Hut
- Many hikers start in the afternoon, stay overnight at a hut near 7th or 8th station, and climb early in the morning to reach the summit at sunrise (goraiko).
- This helps with altitude adjustment and makes the hike less intense.
📅 Best Time to Visit Mount Fuji
| Season | Highlights | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Apr–May) | Cherry blossoms near lakes | Still snow-covered summit |
| Summer (Jul–Sep) | Official hiking season | Best for climbing |
| Autumn (Oct–Nov) | Fall foliage around Fuji Five Lakes | Great for photography |
| Winter (Dec–Mar) | Clear skies, snow-capped Fuji | No climbing, stunning views |
Where to Stay Near Mount Fuji 🛌
- Kawaguchiko Onsen Hotels – lake views + hot springs.
- Guesthouses near trails – great for early hikers.
- Tokyo Day Trip Option – 2 hours one way, doable but packed.
What to Pack for Your Mount Fuji Trip 🧳
- Camera or phone with zoom
- Layered clothing
- Hiking boots (for climbers)
- Sunglasses & sunscreen
- Snacks and water
- Portable Wi-Fi (for maps)
FAQs
Q: Can I visit Mount Fuji in a day from Tokyo?
A: Yes! The fastest way is by taking a train or bus to Kawaguchiko.
Q: Do I need a guide to climb Mount Fuji?
A: Not mandatory, but recommended for first-timers.
Q: Is Mount Fuji a volcano?
A: Yes. It is an active stratovolcano, though it hasn’t erupted since 1707.
Useful Links
- 🗻 Mount Fuji Climbing Official Site – Route updates, safety, and trail info.
- 🚉 Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station – Access info for the Yoshida Trail start point.
- ⛺ Reserve a Mountain Hut – Book overnight stays on the mountain.
- 🚄 Japan Rail Pass Info – Train options from Tokyo to Mount Fuji.
- 🎒 Japan Travel info – Info on Japan Travel.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re admiring Fuji-san from a quiet lakeside bench or summiting at sunrise above the clouds, Mount Fuji offers a soul-stirring experience for all kinds of travelers.
— Joy